Navigating the Staircase Landscape
Staircases are fundamental to building design, but knowing all the parts and what they’re called can be tricky. Clear communication with builders, architects, and suppliers requires a basic understanding of staircase components.
However, a lot of confusion can arise from the fact that different terms exist for the same stair part, and sometimes, the same term is used for different parts.
This article is designed as a comprehensive guide to the names for stair parts and their functions. It will serve as a valuable resource for homeowners, contractors, and design professionals alike.
The Foundation: Essential Structural Components
Staircases may seem simple, but they’re made up of specific parts, each with its own name and purpose. Here’s a rundown of the essential structural components.
Treads: The Walking Surface
The tread is the horizontal part of the stair where you place your foot. Most treads are made of wood, but you’ll also see treads made of metal, stone, or composite materials.
The depth of the tread is a key safety consideration. The International Building Code (IBC) specifies a minimum tread depth of 11 inches, while OSHA requires a minimum tread depth of 9.5 inches.
Risers: The Vertical Connectors
The riser is the vertical board between one tread and the next. Risers add to the stability and overall look of the staircase.
There are two main types of risers: open and closed. Open risers are often used in industrial settings, as long as they comply with OSHA standards. Solid risers are the norm in commercial and residential buildings.
The IBC mandates a maximum riser height of 7 inches and a minimum of 4 inches. OSHA requires riser heights between 6 and 7.5 inches.
Stringers: The Supporting Framework
The stringers are the structural parts that support the treads and risers. They run along the sides of the staircase and provide essential support.
There are two main types of stringers: cut and closed. Cut stringers have the treads and risers attached to the upper surface, so the profile of the steps is visible. Closed stringers hide the ends of the treads and risers.
The Balustrade: Safety and Style
The balustrade is the railing system that runs along the side of the staircase. It’s made up of several key parts that combine safety with style.
Handrails: The Guiding Support
The handrail is what you grip for support as you go up and down the stairs. Handrails are super important for safety, especially for older adults or anyone who might have trouble getting around.
Building codes usually require handrails on both sides of stairs and ramps. The height of the railing should be between 30 and 36 inches. Some common handrail styles include mobstick, pig’s ear, grooved, and ungrooved.
Balusters (Spindles): The Vertical Infill
Balusters, also known as spindles, are the vertical posts that support the handrail. They add a lot to the look of the staircase. They can be made of wood, iron, glass, or other materials. Iron balusters are often made of hollow tubular steel.
Building codes dictate how far apart the balusters can be spaced for safety. OSHA guidelines say the gap should be no more than 19 inches (48 cm), while the IBC says the gap should be no more than 4 to 6 inches.
Newel Posts: The Anchoring Pillars
The newel post is a large, often decorative post that supports the handrail at the top and bottom of the staircase, as well as at any landings. They provide structural stability to the whole balustrade system.
There are several types of newel posts, including box newel posts, complete newel posts, continuous newel posts, volute newels, and pegged newel posts. Parts of the newel post include the newel cap, the newel base, and the newel turning.
Detailing and Finishing Touches
Once you’ve got the basic structure of your staircase in place, you can turn your attention to the elements that make it safer and more attractive.
Nosing: The Edge Definition
The nosing is the bit of the tread that sticks out past the riser. It gives you a visual clue about where the edge of the stair is and helps keep you from slipping.
Nosing can be bullnose, meaning it has a rounded edge, or square. Bullnose stairs, sometimes called curtail steps, are often used as a decorative element at the bottom of the staircase.
Landings: Resting Points
The landing is the area of floor at the top or bottom of a set of stairs. Landings give you a spot to pause and rest and break up long stretches of steps.
OSHA requires stair landings to have a depth of at least 20 inches (50.8 cm).
Accessories: Completing the Look
Stair cladding is the material you put on the treads and risers to make them look more polished. You can also use cross-grain pellets and cover buttons to hide screw holes and other little imperfections.
Advanced staircase terminology
Once you understand the basic parts of a staircase, you can move on to some of the more specialized terms.
Winders: Turning the corner
Winders are treads that are wider on one side than the other. By widening the outside of the tread, the builder can change the direction of the staircase without building a landing. Because they save space, winders are often used in tight areas.
Gooseneck: Handrail transitions
A gooseneck is a curved section of handrail that lets the railing transition between different heights.
Volute: Decorative handrail endings
A volute is a spiral or scroll-shaped ornament on the end of a handrail. You’ll often see volutes on grand or formal staircases.
Finial: Decorative post cap
A finial is an ornamental feature that sits on top of a newel post.
Fascia
The fascia is a decorative board that covers the edge of a landing or stringer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the other names for stair stringers?
Stair stringers, those angled supports that hold the treads and risers, go by a few different names. You might also hear them called stair carriages, stair horses, or even just strings. They all refer to the same structural element that provides the framework for your staircase.
What are the terms used in stairs?
Staircases have their own unique vocabulary! You’ll encounter terms like tread (the part you step on), riser (the vertical piece between treads), baluster (the vertical posts supporting the handrail), newel post (the larger post at the start or end of a railing), and handrail (what you grip for support), among others. Knowing these terms will help you communicate effectively about stair design and construction.
What is the word for stair parts?
While there isn’t one single, all-encompassing word for “stair parts,” the most common and widely understood term is simply “stair components” or “stair parts.” This covers everything from the treads and risers to the handrails and balusters.
What are the parts of stairs called?
The parts of stairs are called by their specific name. Each part has its own name in the staircase. The main parts of a staircase include; treads, risers, stringers, balusters, handrail, and newel post. The staircase may or may not include a landing as well.
The Bottom Line
Knowing the names of all the different stair parts is more than just trivia. It’s essential for clear communication when you’re designing, building, or repairing a staircase. Getting the terminology right helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that everyone is on the same page.
Safety is paramount when it comes to staircases. Adhering to safety codes, like those set by OSHA and the IBC, is non-negotiable. These codes are in place to protect people from falls and injuries, so understanding and following them is crucial.
If you’re planning a complex staircase project, don’t hesitate to consult with qualified professionals. They can guide you through the design process, ensure code compliance, and help you navigate the ever-evolving world of staircase design and materials.