If you’re looking to build a brand new staircase on your property, you must be familiar with all the parts and essential stair components that make up a set of stairs. So, what are the key stair parts, and where should you buy them from?
Keep reading to find out more!
Essential staircase components
Whether you’re looking to invest in metal or oak stair parts, the purpose of these staircase components remains the same and doesn’t change, regardless of their material.
So, what stair parts will you need to construct the stairs of your dreams?
Treads and Risers
Together, your treads and risers make up the steps of your stairs in a conventional staircase. More specifically, treads are the flat horizontal platforms that you stand upon whilst moving up and down the stairs, and risers are the vertical elements between each step.
If you’re planning on building open-riser stairs to create the impression of floating steps, you won’t require risers – in this case, you’ll also need to invest in solid box treads that can support stair users and withstand heavy weights.
Treads and risers are available in various materials, including wood – such as oak or pine – or metal, depending on your aesthetic.
Stringers
An integral element of most staircases, stringers typically feature on both sides of your stairs and are installed to support your treads and risers, which fix into them.
Staircases traditionally have two stair stringers housed on either side of the steps – the stringer on the inner side of your stairs, which connects the treads and risers to your wall, is known as the inner stringer. As the name suggests, the outer stringer sits on the opposing side.
Nosing
Stair nosings are staircase components that cover the edge of each step, shielding the meeting point between the risers and treads. Whilst not a feature across all stairs, they’re a useful and easily replaceable addition that helps to protect your expensive steps from scuffs and impact damage.
Handrails, balusters, and newel posts
Traditional safety stair components, handrails, newel posts, and balusters make up your balustrade – a two-in-one safety and decorative structure that prevents sharp falls on the stairs and enhances your home decor.
Your handrail runs parallel to your stairs, either as part of your balustrade, or against your wall held up by handrail brackets.
Balusters, also known as spindles, are smaller individual columns that sit between your handrail and baserail – they’re often very stylish, and range between traditional and modern designs, including spiral and cubed looks.
Newel posts are central supporting pillars of the balustrade that help to hold up the handrail – these stair components typically sit at the base of your stairs, wherever they change direction, and at the top. Your newel post can be topped with decorative finishing staircase parts known as newel caps, which are available in different styles, such as pyramid and flat shapes.
Buy stair elements from a reputable stair parts shop
Now you know all there is to know about essential stair parts, where should you purchase them from? We recommend purchasing stair components from a reliable retailer that supplies a comprehensive range of good quality products – from spindles and newel posts to handrails and risers, premium products will make or break the appearance and usability of your stairs.
Only a reputable company will provide a great service, highly competitive prices, and quick delivery!