TERMINOLOGY
GLOSSARY OF STAIRCASE TERMS
Learn to talk like a pro! The information below will help to explain the basic terminology and words commonly used within the staircase industry. Whilst this list is not exhaustive, it should help to explain any wooden staircase design jargon in simple terms.
NEWEL CAP
A decorative feature on top of the newel post
NEWEL POST
The main structural post at each end of a flight that supports the stairs and handrail
HANDRAIL
The rail which connects the tops of the spindles, providing support to the guarding and something to hold on to
SPINDLE/BALUSTER
The uprights that form the guarding to the side of the stairs; spindles are often decorative, whilst balusters are commonly plain and square
BASERAIL
The track that sits on top of the string and holds the bottom of the spindles
RISER
The upright section that connects and supports the treads
TREAD
The flat section of the stair you step on
STRING
The wide board on the side of the stairs that the treads and risers are connected to
APRON
A decorative wide board that hangs vertically to cover up the floor joists or landing trimmer
NOSING
Sits on top of the apron and underneath the baserail to give a nice edge to the flooring
A LITTLE INSPIRATION...
Multi-Turn's hub for project inspiration is here at your fingertips! From practical advice on building regulations to the latest trends in building and architecture, there's something for every step of your journey.
RESOURCES
Everything you should know about your stairs, including building regulations.
