When it comes to traditional stair parts, there's a lot more to them than meets the eye.
From the treads to the risers, and the spindles to the handrails, every piece plays a part in making your stairs both functional and stylish.
Installing carpet stair treads can also add another piece to the puzzle, and make your stairs extra luxurious.
What is Each Part of a Stair Called?
Let's break it down.
Each part of the staircase has a special name:
Tread: The flat part where you put your foot.
Riser: The vertical part between each tread.
Stringer: The under side supports that hold everything up.
Balustrade: The whole set-up of handrails, spindles, and newel posts.
Newel Post: The big post at the start and end of the stairs.
Spindles (Balusters): The thin posts that hold up the handrail.
Handrail: The rail you grab onto as you go up or down.
What are the Platforms on Stairs Called?
The flat spots on stairs, also called landings, are like pit stops for your feet.
There are a few types:
Landing: The bigger flat area at the top or bottom of the stairs.
Half-Landing: A flat area where the stairs make a 90-degree turn.
Quarter-Landing: A smaller flat area for a 45-degree turn.
What is the Slang for Stairs?
People have all sorts of nicknames for stairs:
Steps: A simple and casual way to say stairs.
Staircase: Refers to the whole stairway setup.
Stairwell: The space where the stairs go up and down, usually in a building.
Ladder: Sometimes used for really steep or narrow stairs.
Traditional Stair Railing
The railing on stairs isn't just for show; it's a safety feature too.
Traditional stair railings are essential for both safety and aesthetics in a home.
They consist of a handrail, newel posts, and spindles (also known as balusters).
The handrail is what you hold onto for support, while the newel posts are the larger, often decorative, posts at the ends and corners.
Spindles are the vertical posts that connect the handrail to the base of the stairs, providing both support and a stylish element.
Together, these components create a secure and attractive stairway.
Traditional Stair Spindles
Traditional stair spindles, also called balusters, are like the supporting actors in a play.
They come in different styles and materials:
Wooden Spindles: Classic and come in many designs.
Metal Spindles: Give a modern touch but can also be traditional.
Decorative Spindles: Fancy ones with carvings or metalwork for a special look.
What are the Balls on Stairs Called?
The balls or fancy tops on newel posts are called:
Newel Caps: Simple or fancy tops for newel posts.
Finials: Extra decorative, often in shapes like balls or urns.
Moving Forward
Knowing about traditional stair parts helps you make better choices for your home.
Every piece has a role, whether it's for safety or style.
So, when you're thinking about fixing up your stairs or building new ones, remember these parts and how they all work together to create something sturdy and beautiful.
