If it’s structural (the tread/risers are supported by it), it’s called a stringer. If it’s not structural, it’s called skirting (or simply a skirt).
What is the trim on stairs called?
Skirtboard. A trimboard running with the rake, pitch or incline of the stair against the wall on the closed side of the staircase. While usually nonstructural, skirtboard protects the drywall surface and adds to the décor of the staircase.
What are parts of a stair called?
Most people are aware of some stair parts names such as the tread, riser, landing and handrail. But unless you are an architect or builder, you may not be familiar with staircase terminology such as baluster, stringer, volute, bullnose or newel post.
What is the trim on the side of stairs?
A stair skirt or baseboard is the trim that runs along the bottom of the wall beside the steps. Often, it is made from the same baseboard used throughout the home, but it can also have a different appearance entirely. Baseboard trim can be cut with mitered corners and follow the angles of each tread and riser.
What are the parts of a stair banister?
A banister is usually the combination of handrail, newels, stair treads, balusters and assorted trim pieces.
What is a stair spindle?
Spindles (also known as balusters) are the vertical posts that connect the base rail and handrail on a staircase. They form part of the balustrade, the collective name for the base rail, handrail, newel posts and spindles.
What is a skirt board on stairs?
A stair skirtboard is a continuous piece of trim or molding for the sides of your stairs to give them a finished look. There are two kinds of skirt boards for stairs. The first type is the one between the stairs and the wall adjoining the stairs.
What is a stair fascia?
Fascia and riser boards are thinner and wider versions of deck boards that serve as a non-structural covering for rim joists, stair risers, and stringers. They are sometimes referred to as “skirts” or “trim” boards.
What is stair spandrel?
Spandrel: The triangular space underneath a staircase (when there is not another flight underneath).
What is the end of a bannister called?
newel post
A newel, also called a central pole or support column, is the central supporting pillar of a staircase. It can also refer to an upright post that supports and/or terminates the handrail of a stair banister (the “newel post”).
What are the 4 main parts of a railing?
Guardrails contain, at minimum, posts, balusters, and a top rail.
What is a stair Balister?
A handrail, also called a banister, is the part of the staircase that people hold onto for support when going up and down the stairs. The handrail must provide stability and a continuous guide along the stair. A handrail can be made of a variety of materials.
Is a baluster and a spindle the same thing?
A baluster and spindle is actually almost the same thing, but the word spindle is more commonly used because it is easier to remember and say. Balusters usually rest on a footing; this could be a step, floor or deck, whereas, spindles are supported by a horizontal rail at the bottom that is attached to the posts.
What are the spindles on a banister called?
Balusters are the closely spaced supports used to hold up a waist-high handrail, safely containing people inside a staircase or patio deck. They are practical and decorative, providing style and support to the rail system. Balusters are attached to either the floor or secondary support called a base rail.
What does a baluster look like?
Identifying Balusters
Take a look at the picture of the railing above. Balusters are the vertical, vase-like posts or legs on the railing. When placed on a balcony, porch, or terrace, balusters are typically composed of a variety of decorative materials including wood, iron, and stone.
What’s the difference between a bannister and a baluster?
Nowadays, baluster mean any brace between the handrail and footrail (or string) of a railing system. So, the banister is really the spindle. In general, the handrail, footrail, and balusters all components of a balustrade. So a balustrade is a series of balusters.
What is the difference between a banister and a baluster?
The term baluster shaft is used to describe forms such as a candlestick, upright furniture support, and the stem of a brass chandelier. The term banister (also bannister) refers to a baluster or to the system of balusters and handrail of a stairway.
What is the difference between a baluster and balustrade?
Balusters can be made of wood, iron, stone and other materials. The term baluster is interchangeable with the word spindle. A balustrade is comprised of an assembled top rail, balusters or spindles and often a bottom rail, posts, post caps, and decorative finials.
What is the difference between a newel and a baluster?
Newels have added weight and are seen as the support system for your staircase. The thicker posts support the handrail, while the balusters fill out the rest. Balusters are used in succession to create a balustrade, or a line of balusters. Each post contributes to the look and feel of your home’s staircase.
