Treads and Risers Built for Stability

Custom Metal Stair Treads and Risers Fabricated in Battle Creek

When wood treads wear out or slip becomes a concern on exterior stairs, metal treads and risers provide a stable, long-lasting replacement that integrates with your existing stair structure. In Battle Creek, where moisture, temperature swings, and foot traffic degrade wood and cause sagging, metal components maintain their shape and grip without requiring seasonal refinishing or replacement.

C.R. Christian fabricates custom metal stair treads and risers using steel or aluminum, with slip-resistant surfaces applied for outdoor use or high-traffic areas. Each tread is cut to match your stair width and depth, with mounting holes predrilled to align with your stringers or existing framework. Risers are sized to close the gap between treads, preventing debris buildup and adding structural support to the stair assembly. All components are deburred, treated for corrosion resistance, and finished with powder coating or galvanizing depending on whether they will be used indoors or exposed to weather.

If you need to replace worn treads or add risers to an open stair system in Battle Creek, contact C.R. Christian to review your staircase and discuss material options.

What Changes After Metal Treads Are Installed

After measuring your staircase in Battle Creek, treads and risers are fabricated to match the exact width, depth, and rise of your existing framework. Slip-resistant surfaces are added using diamond plate, perforated patterns, or applied grit coatings, depending on the intended use and aesthetic preferences.

Once installed, you will notice firm footing with no flex or bounce, and a surface that drains water instead of retaining it. The treads will not splinter, crack, or develop soft spots, and the slip-resistant texture remains effective even when wet or covered in snow. Risers enclose the space between steps, preventing ice buildup and blocking light or debris from passing through.

Installation includes fastening each tread to your stair stringers using bolts or welded brackets, with shims added if needed to level the tread from front to back. Risers are attached to the back edge of each tread and the face of the stringer, creating a closed stair assembly that meets building codes for safety and appearance. If your stairs connect to a metal railing, the treads are positioned to align with the railing posts and balusters. Metal treads and risers do not require painting or sealing after installation if a protective finish is applied during fabrication, and they can be cleaned with water and a stiff brush to remove debris and prevent buildup.

Answers to Practical Installation Questions

Homeowners often ask about how the treads are secured, whether they can be used on wood stringers, and how the slip-resistant surface holds up over time.

How are metal treads attached to wood stringers?
Treads are bolted through predrilled holes into the top of the stringer, with washers and lock nuts used to prevent loosening. If additional support is needed, metal brackets are welded or bolted to the underside of the tread.
What slip-resistant options are available for outdoor stairs?
Diamond plate, perforated steel, and applied grit coatings are the most common options. Each provides traction in wet or icy conditions without trapping debris or requiring frequent cleaning.
How long does fabrication take after measurements are confirmed?
Most metal treads and risers are fabricated within one to two weeks, depending on the number of steps and finish requirements. Installation in Battle Creek typically occurs within a few days of delivery.
Can you replace just the treads without removing the entire staircase?
Yes, if your stringers and framing are structurally sound, we can remove the old treads and install new metal treads without rebuilding the stair assembly. This reduces labor time and preserves the existing structure.
What finish prevents rust on exterior metal treads?
Hot-dip galvanizing and powder coating both provide corrosion resistance. Galvanizing is typically used for industrial or commercial stairs, while powder coating offers a wider range of colors for residential applications.

C.R. Christian fabricates metal stair treads and risers in Battle Creek that fit your existing staircase and meet safety standards for residential and commercial use. Contact us to schedule a measurement visit and receive a fabrication quote based on your stair layout.