Before installing stair nosing, it’s essential to consider how it will be fixed. This detail might seem minor, but choosing between Adhesive Fixing or Screw Fixing can be the difference between a safe, long-lasting installation and a costly, hazardous failure.
At Mafson, we provide a wide range of
Stair Nosing
trusted by contractors across the UK—from busy schools to modern office blocks. One of the most common questions we receive is:
“Which fixing method should I choose?” Let’s explore the pros and cons so you can find the perfect solution for your project.
Why Fixing Method Matters More Than You Think
Even the highest-quality stair nosing won’t perform if it’s not fixed securely. Loose or poorly installed nosing quickly becomes a hazard, especially in busy areas like schools, shops, or communal staircases. Choosing the right fixing method means prioritising safety, durability, and peace of mind over the long term.
Adhesive-Fixed Stair Nosing: Quick, Clean, and Discreet
Many choose
Adhesive Fixing
for smooth indoor surfaces such as tile, laminate, vinyl, or polished timber. Here’s why it might be ideal for you:
- No drilling or visible screws
- No risk of damaging delicate floors
- Faster installation—perfect when time is limited
- Sleek, uninterrupted finish suited to modern interiors
At Mafson, our PVC stair nosing and hybrid profiles often come with pre-applied adhesive strips or pair well with high-strength construction glue. This means straightforward installation for moderate-traffic areas like office corridors, boutique shops, and care homes—where a neat, quiet finish matters.
Keep in mind: adhesive requires a clean, dry surface to bond well. Dust or moisture weakens adhesion, so surface prep is key. It’s also not suited for damp or outdoor spaces. Once applied, adjusting or removing the nosing can be tricky—so plan ahead.
Screw-Fixed Stair Nosing: Tough, Secure, and Long-Lasting
Screw Fixing is the go-to choice for durability and high traffic. If your stairs are concrete, outdoor, or face frequent heavy use, screw fixing delivers maximum grip and long-term reliability.
With screws anchoring the nosing firmly, you get a secure hold that can handle years of use, harsh weather, and even industrial cleaning. That’s why it’s ideal for warehouses, public buildings, or exposed staircases where strength matters.
Our aluminium stair nosings are purpose-built for Screw Fixing, arriving pre-drilled with colour-matched screws and plugs. You get serious durability—without sacrificing visual appeal.
The trade-offs? Screws are visible (though subtle when matched) and take longer to install. Be careful with older or softer substrates—drilling can damage them if not done right.
If your project demands toughness and reliability, screw fixing is the smart choice.
Before installing stair nosing, it’s essential to consider how it will be fixed. This detail might seem minor, but choosing between adhesive fixing or screw fixing can be the difference between a safe, long-lasting installation and a costly, hazardous failure.
At Mafson, we provide a wide range of stair nosing trusted by contractors across the UK, from busy schools to modern office blocks. One of the most common questions we receive is: “Which fixing method should I choose?” Let’s explore the pros and cons so you can find the perfect solution for your project.
Why Fixing Method Matters More Than You Think
Even the highest-quality stair nosing won’t perform if it’s not fixed securely. Loose or poorly installed nosing quickly becomes a hazard, especially in busy areas like schools, shops, or communal staircases. Choosing the right fixing method means prioritising safety, durability, and peace of mind over the long term.
Adhesive-Fixed Stair Nosing: Quick, Clean, and Discreet
Many choose adhesive fixing for smooth indoor surfaces such as tile, laminate, vinyl, or polished timber. Here’s why it might be ideal for you:
- No drilling or visible screws
- No risk of damaging delicate floors
- Faster installation — perfect when time is limited
- Sleek, uninterrupted finish suited to modern interiors
At Mafson, our PVC stair nosing and hybrid profiles often come with pre-applied adhesive strips or pair well with high-quality construction glues. This means straightforward installation for moderate foot traffic areas like office corridors, boutique shops, and care homes.
Keep in mind that adhesive requires a clean, dry surface to bond well. Dust or moisture weakens adhesion, so preparation is key. Adhesive fixing isn’t suited for outdoor or damp environments, and adjusting or replacing nosing later can be difficult.
Screw-Fixed Stair Nosing: Tough, Secure, and Long-Lasting
Screw fixing is the preferred choice when durability and heavy use matter most. If your stairs are concrete, outdoors, or face frequent heavy footfall, screw fixing provides the strongest hold.
With screws firmly anchoring the nosing, you get a grip that withstands years of use, cleaning machines, and harsh weather. That’s why screw fixing is common in warehouses, public buildings, and external staircases where safety and longevity are critical.
Our aluminium stair nosings are designed for screw fixing and come pre-drilled with colour-matched screws and plugs to provide a neat finish without sacrificing strength.
The trade-offs? Screws are visible, even when matched carefully, and installation takes longer due to drilling and plug fitting. Also, take care on softer or older substrates to avoid damage.
Matching Fixing Method to Your Project
- Adhesive fixing suits quiet indoor spaces like care homes, schools, and hospitals where minimal disruption is essential.
- Screw fixing is better for high-traffic or outdoor areas such as warehouses, public buildings, and external steps.
- Mixed approach: Use adhesive in visible areas for a clean look, and screws in hidden zones for extra hold.
Consider the surface too. Smooth finishes like timber, tile, and vinyl favour adhesive fixing, while rough or porous surfaces like concrete and brick require screw fixing.
Key takeaway: Matching your fixing method to your environment and surface ensures lasting safety and performance.
Think Beyond Just Nosing
Stair safety isn’t only about nosing. Mafson also supplies rubber seals to reduce noise and block gaps, plus threshold strips that make floor transitions safer and smoother. Choosing all your safety components from one trusted supplier like Mafson ensures a perfect fit and coordinated performance.
Top Tips for a Smooth Installation
- Always test fit the nosing before final fixing to ensure perfect alignment.
- Mafson offers cut-to-length services and expert support to make installation faster and easier.
Secure It Right with Mafson
The fixing method may not be the first thing you think about, but it’s a crucial decision that affects how your stair nosing performs for years to come. Whether you choose adhesive for a clean look or screw fixing for durability, the key is matching the method to your project’s needs.
Mafson offers a wide range of high-quality stair nosing designed to perform — backed by expert advice and reliable service.
Ready to get started? Reach out at sales@mafson.co.uk, call 0114 360 9100, or explore the full range at mafson.co.uk.
Design smarter with Mafson® — because safer stairs begin at the edge.
Cheers to safe, stylish staircases — one step at a time!
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