Choosing & Installing the Right Stair Parts

When it comes to updating, building, or repairing a staircase, it is important to choose the specific stair parts for the job long before work begins or else you will be left with an end result that is not aesthetically pleasing. There are a host of styles to consider when choosing stair parts ranging from contemporary to classic. The parts chosen need to complement the style of your home and also each other if you want the best results. Read our guide below to choosing the right staircase for your home.

First of all, you have to decide if the lumber is to match the doors, furniture, or flooring. Pine is an excellent choice for a painted finish since it is very cost effective and of good quality. If you would prefer a more natural finish with a light feel, Oak or Ash would be the best choices. For a darker finish, why not try Sapele which can be stained to a darker color to meet your needs?

Before going any further, you need to know the names of each individual stair part:

• Baluster: These are vertical spindles that hold up your handrail and are found along the staircase.
• Newels: These are larger posts designed to provide support for the balustrade system and are placed at the top and bottom of the staircase with the balusters in between them.
• Handrail: This is railing at the side of the staircase designed to support your body with hand pressure.
• Tread: The horizontal part of the step.
• Riser: The vertical part of the step.
• Nose: This is the front edge of the stair’s tread.

The size and style of your staircase depends on the space you have available. If you are looking for a grand staircase, you may want newel posts of up to 5.5 inches (140 mm) in diameter and balusters of up to 2 inches (55 mm). If you only have enough room for a small staircase, it is common to use newels of 3.5 inches (90 mm) and spindles of 1.5 inches (40 mm).

The range of designs for newel posts and balusters are seemingly endless and include square turned components, fluted and rope twist patterns, Georgian style reeded columns, and traditional styles. If you are looking for newels from a certain era, contact us as we can provide you with the styles to suit your particular needs. It is increasingly common for customers to look for bespoke styles in a bid to create a unique staircase.

When it comes to installing the stair parts, you should use an experienced contracting company as they can also advise you on the components you will need. A professional joinery manufacturer should be able to provide the installer with a list of components or we could buy them on the customer’s behalf. When you take into account the different materials, designs, and styles used in the creation of staircases, it is easier than you think to create something that really encapsulates the mood of your home.

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