Aluminium Tread Plate Moves Into the Home

Aluminium tread plate is a common material in industrial settings, but architects and contractors are beginning to consider the material for home use. Because tread plate is rarely used in private home construction, homeowners may need to ask for it by name.

Manufacturers may refer to it by several different names including checker plate or floor plate. Although the material does not contain any diamonds, it may also be called diamond plate. Aluminium tread plate may be made from any metal, but it is typically created from aluminium.

The name is derived from the pattern of raised ridges stamped into its exterior. Manufacturers take a simple metal panel and create a regular design of small dots, short lines, or whorls across one side. The raised design improves grip without making it difficult to clean a panel.

The benefits of using tread plate for homes include quick cleaning, significant durability, and simple installation. Being made out of aluminium, it can simply be hosed off with water. No special solvents or maintenance is necessary. The simple cleaning procedure means it is perfect for areas like decks, garages, or workshops that are often dirty or dusty.

Tread plate will not crack like concrete, shatter like glass blocks, or splinter like wood. It generally comes in individual panels, so a single panel can be replaced if it is damaged. Homeowners do not need to tear up an entire floor or wall to fix one damaged panel. If a homeowner does damage a panel, they may be able to simply hammer out the dent instead of purchasing a replacement.

Aluminium tread plate generally has excellent corrosion resistance and may be coated with a special chemical layer for additional protection. Aluminium does not rust like ferric metals, but it can be susceptible to certain other types of corrosion. However, the metal is suitable for use in indoor or outdoor projects.

Because it's sold by the panel, it can be installed quickly by most contractors. Checker plate is typically fastened with glue or screws, and no special tools are necessary. Do-it-yourself homeowners are able to install these panels on their own. Some panels even have interlocking edges like puzzle pieces, so homeowners simply need to lock the panels in place.

Aluminium tread plate may be used in or around the home for:

– Basement floors
– Boat docks
– Exterior stairs
– Garage floors
– Garage walls
– Workshop floors