• 1. Starting Step - The first step of a stair system. It tends to be ornate and is typically wider than any of the other steps.
  • 2. Riser - The vertical plane of a stair that faces each step between stringers and tread.
  • 3. Tread - This is the portion of the step on which you place your feet.
  • 4. Baluster - A vertical piece, plain or decorative, that is used between railing and tread or floor.
  • 5. Newel - Also called a central pole, it is the major supporting pillar of a balustrade system, typically located at the bottom and top of a stairway, or at a turn in a handrail.
  • 6. Volute - A fancy spiral formation found at the bottom end of 15. the handrails.
  • 7. Turnout - An ornamental item that usually flares left or right and attaches to the beginning of the rail.
  • 8. 2 Rise Gooseneck - A rail fitting that permits a change in direction, used where rake rail rises vertically to a balcony or landing.
  • 9. Stringer - The structural component that supports the treads and risers. There are two stringers on a staircase typically, one on either side of the stairs. (Boxed or Open)
  • 10. Facia - The decorative board that fastens along the wall on the open side of the staircase.
  • 11. Handrail - The hand support in a stair system.
  • 12. Rail Fittings - Fittings are assembled parts that match particular hand rail patterns. They allow for directional and vertical changes with the hand rail in over-the-post balustrades.
  • 13. Freestanding Stair - A stairway that is not supported by walls.
  • 14. Landing - A large horizontal platform between the flights of stairs. Landings allow for directional changes in stairs.
  • 15. Box Newel Post - Also called a central pole, it is the major supporting pillar of a balustrade system, typically located at the bottom and top of a stairway, or at a turn in a handrail.
  • 16. Rake Rail - Hand rail used on the ascending section of a balustrade. It follows the pitch of the stair.
  • 17. Half Newel - A newel post that is typically cut vertically and mounted against the wall, used mainly for aesthetic purposes.
  • 18. Level Rail - Handrail used on the landing portion of a balustrade.
  • 19. Landing Tread - A part used at the top of a staircase or beginning of a balcony that allows for transition into the landing.
  • 20. Total Rise - Refers to the total height your stair needs to be. Synonymous with "Finish to Finish" rise as it refers to the measurement from the top of the finished first floor to the top of the finished second floor.
  • 21. Total Run - The measurement of how far your stair extends from the wall. Key measurement if your stair is going between walls.