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When it comes to expanding your product range, stair nosings might not seem like the obvious first choice. They feel technical. Specialised. Maybe even a little risky.
But here’s the reality: Contractors are asking for them. Compliance requires them.
And the smart suppliers who stock stair safety essentials are turning a real business need into real loyalty and better margins. So, what’s holding shops back?
At Sterling Supplies, we hear the same concerns over and over. This article breaks them down and shows you why stocking stair nosings can actually be simpler (and smarter) than you think.
Barrier 1: "It’s Too Technical – I’m Not an Expert"
I don't know all the compliance codes or installation tricks. How can I recommend stair nosings to tradies without making a mistake?
You don’t need to be a technical specialist; you just need the right support partner and tools. At the counter, most contractors are looking for a compliant, high-quality product that meets their project specs, not a technical lecture. Here’s how we make it simple:
- Clear Product Labels: Every Sterling Supplies stair nosing product comes with specification sheets detailing slip ratings, material specs, and compliance standards.
- Quick Reference Compliance Guides: We provide simple, easy-to-read compliance cheat sheets for your counter team.
- Training & Support: Our team can give your sales staff a 15-minute walkthrough on the key points to recommend with confidence.
You don’t have to be an expert. You just have to stock smarter — and have the right tools on hand.
Barrier 2: "I’m Not Sure What’s Compliant"
There are so many standards. What if I recommend or sell the wrong thing?
Compliance is critical but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Sterling Supplies only stocks fully compliant stair nosings, built to meet:
- AS/NZS 4586 for slip resistance
- AS/NZS 1428.1 for mobility access and visual contrast
- Building Code of Australia (BCA/NCC) safety requirements
Plus, we make it easy to match the right product to the right job:
- Visual guides showing where recessed vs surface-mount options fit
- Simple recommendations based on flooring types: tiles, concrete, vinyl, timber
- Checklist tools for tradies to verify site needs quickly
- Every stair nosing you stock through us is built for compliance first.
- If your customer buys from you, they buy peace of mind.
You’re not just stocking a product — you’re supplying confidence.
Barrier 3: "What If It Doesn’t Sell Quickly?"
We’re a small shop. What if we invest in stock and it sits there gathering dust?
Stair nosings are compliance-driven purchases. They aren’t trend-dependent, and they don’t go out of fashion. Contractors aren’t shopping for stair nosings they’re required to have them to complete fitouts, refurbishments, and new builds. Here’s why they move consistently:
- New commercial, education, and government builds are growing.
- Retrofitting public access buildings (hotels, offices, schools) is ongoing.
- Building audits drive mandatory replacement of worn or non-compliant nosings.
- Contractors need these products to finish jobs — often urgently.
- Quick-turn inventory (10–25 units) fits the job-driven buying cycle.
Plus, we help reduce your risk even further:
- Starter packs built around proven best-sellers
- Low MOQs (minimum orders)
- Fast local restocking — so you can sell lean without missing opportunities
It’s not slow-moving stock — it’s smart-moving compliance essentials.
Barrier 4: "Where Do I Even Start?"
There are so many profiles, inserts, and finishes. How do I pick the right products to stock without making expensive mistakes?
You don’t need to stock 30+ options to serve your customers. In fact, starting with 3–5 smart product choices can cover 80% of tradie needs. Here’s a simple way to start:
| Product | Best For | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Appular Carborundum Clear Aluminium | High-traffic commercial, outdoor stairs | Heavy-duty anti-slip |
| Appular Ribbed Clear Aluminium | Retail, education, lighter commercial | Durable and versatile |
| Appular Corrugated Clear Aluminium | High-grip indoor stairs | Clean look with strong slip rating |
| Transola Black/Yellow | Quick retrofit, cost-conscious jobs | Fast installs, strong visual contrast |
- Contractors need these products to finish jobs — often urgently.
- Quick-turn inventory (10–25 units) fits the job-driven buying cycle.
You don’t have to know everything. You just have to start somewhere smart. We’ll guide you every step of the way.
Stock safer. Sell smarter. Grow simpler.
Stocking stair nosings isn’t just about adding another product — it’s about serving your customers better, building stronger loyalty, and growing smarter. We’re here to help you make your first move confidently as your trusted partner.
Smarter. Safer. Simpler. Your Partner from the Ground Up. That’s Sterling Supplies.
