Flush nosing
sits level with the flooring on the tread, so the floor surface and the nose form one continuous plane.
Nosing guide
Stair Nose Types: Flush, Overlap, Bullnose and Square Edge
The stair nose is the front edge of a tread. Its profile changes how the stair looks, how the edge feels underfoot and which flooring it suits. This guide compares the common types of stair nosing.
Common types of stair nosing
Overlap nosing
has a lip that overlaps the top edge of the flooring on the tread, covering the cut edge and allowing a small expansion gap beneath it.
Bullnose
a fully rounded front edge, common on traditional wood stairs.
Square or eased-edge nosing
a squared front edge with slightly softened corners for a crisp, modern look.
Stair nose types compared
| Type | Look | Safety | Best with |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flush | Clean, continuous surface | No raised lip at the tread edge | Flooring installed so the nose sits level with the planks |
| Overlap | Visible lip over the flooring | Covers the plank edge at the front of the step | Floating floors such as LVP and laminate that need an expansion gap |
| Bullnose | Rounded, traditional | Rounded edge with no sharp corner | Solid wood and traditional stairs |
| Square / eased edge | Crisp, modern | Softened corners reduce a sharp edge | Modern interiors and wood or LVP stairs |
Bullnose vs square nose
A bullnose has a fully rounded edge and a traditional look. A square or eased-edge nose keeps a flat front with lightly rounded corners and reads as more modern. Both must meet the nosing projection your local code requires, typically 3/4 to 1-1/4 in on residential stairs when tread depth is under 11 in.
The profile available for your flooring is confirmed during project review.
Common questions
What are the types of stair nosing?
The common types are flush, overlap, bullnose and square or eased-edge nosing.
What is the difference between flush and overlap stair nose?
Flush nosing sits level with the tread flooring. Overlap nosing has a lip that covers the edge of the flooring and allows an expansion gap beneath it.
Which is better, bullnose or square nose?
Neither is better in every case. Bullnose suits traditional stairs; square or eased-edge nosing suits modern interiors. Choose the profile that fits your flooring and style.
Which stair nose works with LVP or laminate?
Floating floors such as LVP and laminate are often finished with overlap nosing because it covers the plank edge and leaves room for movement. The right profile depends on the flooring and installation.
How far should a stair nose stick out?
On residential stairs, the IRC requires a nosing projection of 3/4 to 1-1/4 in when tread depth is under 11 in. Local codes vary; confirm with your building department.
Ready for your stair parts?
Pricing and turnaround are confirmed on your written quote.