Stairways

Stairways in the coatings world typically fall under two categories: stairs that need to be waterproofed and stairs that do not need to be waterproofed. Stairs, regardless if they need to be waterproofed or not, experience high pedestrian foot traffic and need a durable, yet anti-skid solution. Under those categories, a large variety of options become available including anti-skid solutions, ADA compliant solutions and decorative solutions for indoor and outdoor solutions.

Stairs that need to be waterproofed in new construction and reconstruction typically have plywood or concrete substrates. The Life Deck AL system which incorporates metal lath, cement, high solids modifier and durable anti-skid finishes is the go to for many waterproofing contractors for waterproofing plywood stairs. AL Flex, AMAC, and LD-2000 are also great solutions for plywood stairs both exterior and interior. In reconstruction applications where magnesite or concrete is present, the installation of the Life Deck MC system provides an extremely durable and flexible option that is applied directly over the substrate. Depending on the application and condition of the substrate, the installation may call for a water-based epoxy or 100% solids vapor mitigating primer for superior adhesion.

In terms of durable anti-skid finishes for stairs, it is key to ensure that the correct coefficient of friction is created. Installed properly, Life Deck cement textures can provide a ready-made solution for an anti-skid finish. Life Deck color seal, heat reflective, flagstone, tile-patterns, wood plank, and more typically have great coefficient of friction. Coefficient of friction is to help prevent split hazards.