Stair nosing as the name indicates, is a safe way to finish your wood or laminate flooring on your staircase, by hiding the edges of the wood flooring, where the two wood floors meet. They are designed to blend in with your floor and to be safe.

What is the purpose of nosing?

The main purpose of a nosing is to improve the safety of the staircase. As it protrudes a little over the edge of the tread, it provides some extra space for users to place their feet.

Do all stairs require nosing?

You are not required to have a nosing/overhang on your stair treads. But if your stairs don’t have a nosing you are required to have a tread that is at least 11 inches long.