Pressed stair treads or perforated stair treads? Opting for less view through

For staircases in industrial and non-residential buildings, there are two commonly used solutions for stair treads: pressed stair treads and perforated stair treads.

Both are strong, durable and safe, but they feel very different in use and in terms of how they are perceived.

Pressed or perforated?

What is the difference?

Pressed stair treads:

A pressed stair tread is constructed from a grid structure of steel bars. This creates an open, transparent tread with maximum light transmission and water drainage. Ideal for industrial environments, emergency stairwells and outdoor installations.

Perforated stair treads:

A perforated stair tread is made from a steel plate with regularly spaced perforations. The tread looks more solid and understated, offers less visibility through it, but still retains all the advantages of a steel tread: strong, lightweight and low-maintenance.

Why are more and more people opting for perforated stair treads during renovation?

We’ve noticed this in practice: in renovation projects, people are increasingly switching from pressed gratings to perforated stair treads. There are several reasons why this choice is being made more frequently.

The most commonly cited reason is the view through. A pressed stair tread provides a completely open line of sight downwards, something not everyone finds pleasant. Particularly on higher floors, in buildings open to the public or in locations where users with less experience of using stairs are present, a more enclosed tread offers considerably greater comfort and confidence.
Furthermore, aesthetics play a major role. Buildings are increasingly being renovated with the aim of achieving a more modern, prestigious look. The sleek, uniform structure of a perforated step is better suited to contemporary interior and architectural styles, whilst a pressed grating tends to convey a purely industrial character.
Noise is also a factor that frequently comes up. The more closed structure of a perforated step dampens footfall noise better than an open pressed grating, which makes a significant difference in office environments or residential buildings.
Finally, there is the aspect of dirt and maintenance. A pressed stair tread naturally has more corners and openings where fine dust, sand and dirt can accumulate. A perforated stair tread is easier to keep clean due to its flatter surface, which reduces maintenance costs in the long term.

In short: the perforated stair treads combines the technical quality of steel with a safer experience, a more modern look and practical ease of use. No wonder more and more people are opting for this solution when renovating.

Not sure which stair tread best suits your project? Get in touch with us – we’d be happy to help!

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