Staircase Terminology
Physical Components that make up a staircase:
1
Newel Cap
Sits on top of the newel post for decorative effect.
2
Handrail
Follows the staircase up, and is where people place their hands and is grooved out for spindles to sit into.
3
Newel Post
A substantial post that the handrail goes into on the staircase usually 90x90mm, can be either left at full height, or cut short for a newel turning to fit into.
4
Treads
Horizontal timber, usually 22mm in thickness, however are made thicker for open riser stairs.
5
Spindle
Also known as balusters, these go between the handrail and base rail to stop you falling through, these are usually 41x41 mm, these are either square(sometimes fluted), or turned.
6
String
Routed out timber usually 220mm in width and 32mm thick, treads and risers are slotted in, the top section can be cut away to create a cut string stair case.
7
Bottomrail
Sits on top of the string of landing and is grooved out for spindles to sit into.
8
Risers
Vertical timber, usually 9mm thick, these are not mandatory, when missing the stair is called and open riser staircase.