Have you ever wondered what the different parts of a staircase are called? Unless you’re a contractor or home improvement buff, you may have never considered the names of different stair parts. Luckily, we have all the information here for you. If you are remodeling your house, or working on a commercial project, you should know the names of different stair parts.
Stair Treads and Risers
Stair treads are named so because they are what you “tread on” or walk on. Treads are horizontally installed hardwood boards that are commonly referred to as steps. Stair risers are vertical parts of the stair carriage, sometimes called kick plates. On the other hand, open riser staircases are made with unique extra-thick treads and stringers and don’t have risers.
Indiana Floor, Inc. carries a vast selection of treads and risers to meet all your projects.
Stair Balusters, Handrails, & Newels
Stair balusters are vertical, usually somewhat thin sections, closely spaced to close the stair balustrade. A stair handrail is what is held onto or grabbed while walking up or down the staircase.
Think of a newel post as an anchor for the handrail of the staircase. Without it, the banister would be wobbly as we continually grab onto it for balance. Newel posts are always at the foot of a staircase and at every turn. Just as a house has load-bearing walls for support, a staircase has newel posts to bear the weight of the stairs. When being built, the staircase’s central support is attached to the newel post. Without the support, a staircase isn’t as strong.
Other Stair Parts to Know
Stair Stringers
Stair stringers are the structural parts of the stairs on which the treads and risers are supported. Stringers are either cut to allow the treads to be open to the room with either left, right, or double return treads, or can be routed to recess the treads and risers into the stringer.
Stair Bullnose
A stair bullnose is a rounded edge on the front of the treads. All square-edge treads with a mission style are becoming more common.
Accessories for Your Staircase Installation
Handrail Brackets
Ensure the security and stability of your staircase remodel with reliable Handrail Brackets. Designed for the secure mounting of wood handrails, these brackets offer an easy installation process and exceptional durability.
Stair Hardware
Hardware such as rosettes, handrail brackets, newel install kits, screws, drivers, and wood plugs form a crucial part of any staircase installation. Our diverse selection encompasses an array of items that promote ease of installation and ensure long-lasting functionality. From basic elements to sophisticated accessories, these accessories are engineered to meet the diverse needs of your staircase project.
Indiana Floor, Inc.: Your One-Stop Shop for Quality Flooring Products
Since 1993, Indiana Floor has been the leading choice of contractor supply to the hardwood flooring trades. We offer a vast inventory of finished, unfinished, engineered flooring, sundries, and tools to meet customers’ needs. With 5 locations in the MD and VA areas, we are dedicated to providing quality flooring products to our clients. Contact us today at (703) 550-0020 or fill out the contact form on our website!