Stair tread protection system

Abstract

A protector device for protecting a stair tread has a base portion adapted to cover at least a portion of a stair tread and upon which a user can step. The base portion has a forward edge adapted to be generally aligned with a forward edge of the stair tread. The device further includes a clip portion extending from the forward edge of the base portion and adapted to secure the protector device to the stair tread.

Description

[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 USC 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 598,125, which was filed on Aug. 3, 2004, and the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] This invention relates to a device for protecting stair treads and a stair system using a tread protector device. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Stairs such as those installed in residential homes can be made of costly but decorative materials. For example, stairs can be made of hardwood such as oak or cherry. A finished staircase is typically built in a location remote from the site of final installation. Once built, the staircase is shipped to the installation location and then installed as required. The staircase is generally installed prior to completion of construction of the home or other building, and is used during construction of the building to gain access to upper floors. [0004] A staircase is susceptible to damage during shippi...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a protector device for protecting stair treads is provided with a template portion. The template portion can facilitate the installation of staircase accessories, such as balusters for a handrail, to the treads. The template portion can include template features such as holes, cut-outs, or a visible design punched or pressed into the protector device.

Problems solved by technology

Stairs such as those installed in residential homes can be made of costly but decorative materials.

A staircase is susceptible to damage during shipping, installation, and use prior to completion of construction of the building in which the stairs are installed.

The stair treads (the upper surfaces of the horizontal step portions of the staircase) are particularly susceptible to damage.

Workers using the stairs can damage the treads with work boots or by embedding nails or other objects in the treads.

Such a wrap can help keep paint and other debris off the stairs, but does not generally offer significant protection against damage such as that which may be caused by impact to the stairs, or by imbedding objects into the stairs.

Securing a sheet of wood onto the upper surface of the treads can improve protection, but this can be time-consuming, costly, and, upon removal, can leave nail or staple marks in the finished staircase.

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