How to Carpet Metal Spiral Stairs

Metal spiral stairs may look sleek, but they’re often cold, slippery, and loud—especially in homes with kids or pets. The best method for how to carpet metal spiral stairs is by using carpet stair treads that adhere individually to each step with non-damaging adhesive or hook-and-loop fasteners. This approach makes your stairs safer, softer, and more attractive without needing permanent changes.

In this guide, you'll learn exactly how to measure, choose, and install the right carpet stair treads for your spiral staircase. We’ll cover material choices, outdoor-friendly options, and mistakes to avoid. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to upgrade your stairs with confidence.

Why Carpet a Spiral Staircase?  

Metal spiral stairs are beautiful and space-saving—but they aren’t always cozy.

Here are some of the biggest reasons homeowners decide to add carpet to metal stairs:

• Slippery steps for kids, pets, or guests

• Cold or noisy metal in winter months

• Lack of comfort or style compared to the rest of the home

• Clanging footfalls that echo through the house

Adding stair treads—or even custom carpet landings—solves all of these problems with one simple upgrade.

What You Need to Know First  

Before you start carpeting a spiral staircase, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Measure Each Tread Individually  

Spiral staircases often have unique shapes, with wedge-style treads that get narrower near the center post.

No one-size-fits-all here. Each step needs a custom or adjusted solution.

Choose the Right Material  

Look for treads that are:

• Low-profile (to avoid tripping)

• Durable and pet-safe

• Designed for metal adhesion

• Custom-cut or able to be trimmed on-site

Bonus points for environmentally friendly adhesive and easy return policies—two things Oak Valley Designs does best.

How to Carpet Metal Spiral Stairs  

Carpeting spiral metal stairs takes a little planning, but it’s completely doable with the right materials and prep. Follow these easy steps to make your staircase safer, softer, and more stylish in just a few hour

Step 1: Clean the Metal Surface  

Start with a clean surface. Use a degreaser or mild cleaner to remove dirt, oils, or old adhesives.

Let dry fully before you continue.

Step 2: Measure Each Step  

Because spiral staircases vary in depth and width, grab a measuring tape and take:

• Length at widest point (outer edge)

• Length at narrowest point (inner edge near pole)

• Depth from front to back (tread depth)

Sketch it out if needed. Many companies—including ours—offer custom templates or phone support for tricky designs.

Step 3: Choose the Right Treads  

Opt for stair treads specifically designed for metal or outdoor use. These typically have:

• Textured backing for grip

• Non-damaging adhesives

• Outdoor-grade materials if needed

If your design spiral stair is also outside, make sure you’re using UV-resistant, mold-resistant options.

Step 4: Install Treads with Adhesive or Hook-and-Loop  

Two options here:

Adhesive-Backed (Permanent but gentle)

• Peel-and-stick with strong, floor-safe adhesive

• Press firmly into place

• Apply weight for 30 seconds to secure

Hook-and-Loop (Reusable and repositionable)

• Great for outdoor metal spiral staircases

• Makes cleaning or replacing treads easier

• Allows seasonal swaps or style updates

Oak Valley’s stair treads use an environmentally friendly adhesive that won’t damage your steps and can be adjusted during install.

Step 5: Test for Safety  

• Step on each tread—check for movement

• Ensure corners are lying flat

• Check edges near the spiral pole (the tightest turns)

If any corners lift, add additional grip strips or press down again.

Best Carpet Materials for Metal Spiral Stairs  

Not all carpet types are created equal—especially when it comes to metal stairs.

Here are materials we recommend:

Oak Valley Designs offers a wide range of custom sizes and colors for every style—modern, rustic, traditional, or beachy.

Mistakes to Avoid  

• Skipping the prep step—dirty metal means poor adhesion

• Using indoor carpet on outdoor stairs

• Ignoring the spiral shape—flat rectangle treads won’t work

• Skimping on safety checks after installation

Take your time. It’s worth doing right the first time.

Can You Carpet Outdoor Metal Spiral Staircases?  

Absolutely—but not with just any material.

You’ll need:

• Weatherproof carpet (polypropylene or rubber-backed)

• UV protection

• Non-slip surface

• Rust-resistant fasteners if needed

Our customers use Oak Valley’s outdoor-safe treads for back porches, decks, and even poolside spiral stairs. With the right pick, you can upgrade safety and style in one weekend.

Use Spiral Stairs as a Focal Point  

Many homeowners assume spiral stairs are just functional. But with the right stair treads, they can be a statement piece.

Try:

• Contrasting colors with the surrounding floor

• Neutral tones for a cozy cottage feel

• Patterned treads to add depth and dimension

And if you’re working on a design spiral stair renovation, stair treads are a low-cost way to try out your dream look—before going all in.

Steps To Success   

Upgrading spiral stairs doesn’t have to be hard—or permanent.

At Oak Valley Designs, we offer made-to-order carpet stair treads designed specifically for tricky staircases, including metal and spiral formats. With custom sizing, DIY-friendly installation, and a swatch program to try before you buy, we make safety and style simple.

Give Your Stairs a Soft Spot to Land  

Our custom-cut stair treads are made to fit, simple to install, and safe for pets and kids. Whether you're indoors or outdoors, we’ve got a better way to tread.

• Website: https://oakvalleydesigns.com/

• Phone: (706) 331-0315

• Email: info@oakvalleydesigns.com

• Address: 30 River Ct SW Bldg E Cartersville, Ga 30120