H2O Non-Slip Treads: Frequently Asked Questions

The H2O Non-Slip Treads is a slip-prevention system that makes pools, spas, and slick surfaces safer. Its use of an underwater adhesive makes it a favorite for businesses and consumers that enjoy not having to drain their pool before installation. These are the most common questions adopters have before they get started.

How much glue do I need?

You will need to order 1 additional tube of H2O Aqua Bonder for each TWO (2) additional strips.

What is the H2O Non-Slip Treads used for?

The H2O Non-Slip Treads provides a non-slip footing for safer access and maneuverability on underwater surfaces. The primary applications are commercial pools & spas and home pools & hot tubs. It can also be used for slick surfaces such as therapy pools, hot springs, and boat decks.

How is the H2O Non-Slip Treads different from alternatives?

Like other products on the market, the H2O Non-Slip Treads is a fiberglass strip with an abrasive coating painted various colors. However, what sets the H2O Non-Slip Treads apart is that it utilizes an underwater adhesive. This means you don’t have to drain your pool or hot tub to install it. The H2O Non-Slip Treads is the only product on the market that can be installed this way.

Which surfaces will the H2O Non-Slip Treads attach to?

The Chemical Concepts H2O Non-Slip Treads underwater treads are ideal for use on pool steps and surfaces made of vinyl, fiberglass, and painted concrete.

Which surfaces won’t it attach to?

The H2O Non-Slip Treads is not compatible with unpainted concrete, gunite, tile, pool plaster, pebble, stone or polyethylene.

How do I install the H2O Non-Slip Treads?

  • Cut the H2O Non-Slip Treads strips to your desired length using a hack saw or similar tool (32 teeth per inch blades work best).
  • Lightly sand the cut edge.
  • Clean the pool surface with a scrub pad to remove any algae or other residue.
  • Apply H2O Aquabonder adhesive to the backside of the strip (follow Aquabonder application instructions.)
  • Position H2O Non-Slip Treads in place.
  • If performed underwater, remove excess adhesive by simply wiping away with a cloth. Otherwise, you can remove excess adhesive with alcohol or acetone.
  • Place weights like bricks on H2O Non-Slip Treads for 30 minutes to contour the grip to the shape of the surface. This will create a tighter bond.
  • Remove the weights or bricks and enjoy a much safer pool or spa!

(apply H2O Aquabonder adhesive to the back of the treads using the pattern shown)
In some cases, you may be able to attach the strips with screws instead of adhesives, such as drilling and mounting it to metal steps.


How do I use the caulking gun adaptor to dispense H2O Aquabonder? (see video below)

  1. Set up the caulk gun Adapter
    • Put the H2O glue into the clear plastic tube.
    • Put the blue double plunger onto the caulk gun plunger.
    • Load the plastic tube with glue into the caulking gun, making sure the blue plungers line up with the cartridge
  2. Level the Cartridge (This step must be repeated for each new cartridge you dispense)
    • Remove the cap on the adhesive by rotating ¼ turn
    • Slowly squeeze the trigger of the gun into a disposable cup or piece of cardboard until a small amount of adhesive is equally dispensing from both sides of the two-part cartridge
    • Now you are ready to attach the mixing tip.
  3. Purge the mixing nozzle (This step must be repeated for each new mixing nozzle)
    • Place a mixing nozzle on the end of the cartridge and rotate ¼ turn to lock it in.
    • Dispense 1 bead about the length of a mixer onto a piece of cardboard to ensure that the adhesive is mixing properly.
    • You are now ready to apply adhesive!

Can I use a partial H2O glue?

Yes. You will need to put on a new mix nozzle. Make sure the glue is coming out of both sides of H2O glue before putting on new mix nozzle.

Can I clean the H2O glue off my pool?

Yes. The H2O glue can be wiped off before it sets. After it sets it cannot be removed.

Can I paint the H2O Non-Slip Treads cut edge?

Yes. A magic marker will work to color the cut edge before putting it into the pool.

What are the dimensions of the H2O Non-Slip Treads?
2 inches wide x 24 inches long x 1/10 inch high.

What colors are available?

Blue, Black, Yellow or White. Other colors are available upon request

How long does the H2O Non-Slip Treads stay attached?

Once it’s bonded to the surface, you can expect the H2O Non-Slip Treads to stay in place for the life of the pool. Weighing it down during installation will provide a longer-lasting attachment.

How do I buy the H2O Non-Slip Treads?

The H2O Non-Slip Treads is sold both individually and in a starter kit with the AquaBonder Glue. (You can select a package in the Choose Option Menu.) We also sell the AquaBonder Glue individually.