A stair case causes the body to do work when assending it.

Stair rods are small metal bars that have been placed at the back of each step in a flight of stairs. They have been used since the 1800s in residential homes and business offices as a practical tool and a decorative style statement.

The Purpose of Stair Rods

The practical purpose of stair rods is to hold the stairway’s carpet runner snugly against the back of each step so that it does not come loose and cause someone to trip. Early stair runners were not glued or affixed to the steps in any fashion, so they had a tendency to come loose and bunch up. The stair rods were affixed to the bottom of the stair rails so that they would not budge, which kept the carpeting stretched nicely along the length of the stairs. Once rubber backing and modern carpet tacks became more commonly used for carpet runners, stair rods were not necessary for holding the carpet in place any longer. They continue to be used, however, for their decorative style.

Different Types of Stair Rods

Stair rods come in several different types of sizes and styles. The most utilitarian stair rods had a brushed nickel finish and were small, simple bars. More ornate stair rods could be used for special buildings or homes. They could have gold finishes and be larger so that they made more of an impact in the overall design of the stairwell. Some stair rods were painted to match the stair railing or to add a new design element with the color of the carpeting.

How Stair Rods are Installed

Stair rods can be installed in several different ways. Some stair rods are connected to metal plates that run along the edges of the stairs from top to bottom. Other stair rods are placed in small holes that are drilled into each side of the stairwell. There are also configurations that have separate, smaller metal plates that are placed against the stairwell sides so that the stair rods can be screwed into them. Whatever the design, stair rods need to be firmly affixed to something on either end so that they will not move when the stairs are in use.

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For safety and beauty, stair treads are a necessity in the home. If a staircase is made of hardwood, stair treads are a smart idea to prevent any falls.

The most common and popular type of stair treads are the rubber ones. Many of them have a simple horizontal bar pattern with a taper return nose that makes them fit much better. Cleaning is easy and must be done within each bar. These stair treads are mainly used in commercial locations such as offices, bowling alleys, apartments and other such locations.

The treads that are used in the low cost housing are made mostly of vinyl. These are also very plain and easy to clean, however, they come in more different colors.

Braided stair treads are very attractive for the home and their friction will prevent any accidents on those hardwood stairs. There are also stair treads that come in a scroll. The microfiber ones are very popular and effective.

The most decorative stair treads for the home are actually made of hardwood, such as oak, and there are also stair tread carpets that look wonderful in the house. They can be very pretty and can match the furniture in the room, and also go very well with the balusters. If the balusters are white, an elegant wood stair tread would offset the white very nicely.

The only disadvantage to having wooden stair treads is that they can and will take a beating. To have them looking as good as new, they can be sanded. The best way to do this is to use a belt sander. It is very important not to sand off too much of the wood. Another thing to use to finish the wood to a satin-smooth finish is a scraping tool. If you aren’t comfortable doing this yourself, a professional would be able to come in and do the job perfectly.

The wooden stair treads can also be stained. This is another method that needs to be done carefully. The stain should instantly be wiped as soon as it is applied to avoid too much staining. Three coats of stain should leave the stair treads looking fabulous once again.

Two story homes pose challenges for people who have trouble navigating the stairs. Stair lifts, however, are useful for making the home accessible for the person who is unable to go up and down the stairs on her own. Selling a home just because of an inability to go up and down the stairs can be a burden, all of which is solved by installing a stair lift. Stair lifts can also be used in homes with basements to allow the occupant to easily access the lower level of a home.

Stair lifts use aluminum rails and chairs that fit the rails to transport people up and down the steps. When not in use, the chair folds away and takes up very little room in the stairway. Considering the freedom that they provide people who have difficulties with stairs, these lifts are indispensable ways to stay in the home. Stair lifts use motors to transport the chair up and down, and when the power goes out, they may or may not run. Some stair lifts have backup batteries that enable the lifts to function during power outages. Stair lifts can be used in straight stairs as well as curved stairways.

Installing stair lifts does not take long, and while some consider them expensive, the expense is not nearly equal to the difficulties and costs associated with moving. Moving, even for people who use full-service movers, is a stressful activity. A simple stair lift helps people live comfortably in their current homes, where they can continue to enjoy their home, yard, and neighborhood.

Insurance companies may cover the cost of a stair lift, especially for the disabled or older patient whose doctor prescribes a stair lift for the patient to stay in the home. People who could benefit from a stair lift should check with their health insurance company to see how much, if any at all, the company can assist them financially with the purchase and installation of this helpful device.