Stairs and Rails

Illustrated terms and Definitions

Stair Parts Terms - Illustrated and Defined

Balusters - The verticle posts which support the railing of the staircase. The term "Balustrade" refers to the baluster and rail system.

Cove Moulding - A decorative strip which, when attached to the underside of the tread nosing, covers the joint between the tread and the riser.

Fillet - Strips which fill the plow between balusters on plowed handrail and shoerail.

Fittings - The stair parts used to form a smooth transition when the handrail changes height or direction. For example, starting a balustrade (volute, turnout, starting easing), at a landing (gooseneck), and at a balcony.

Handrails - The horizontal or rake member of a balustrade system. It sits on top of the balusters and is supported by newel posts.

Newels - The major support posts for the balustrade system. Larger and heavier than the balusters, newels are located at the bottom and top of a staircase and at turns and critical support areas of balcony rails.

Nosing - The portion of a tread or landing tread which protrudes beyond the face of the riser.

Rake - The slope or angle of the staircase (also referred to as rake angle).

Risers - The vertical component of a stair which supports the treads.

Shoerail - A piece running along the floor which is plowed for the insertion of balusters and fillets.

Starting Steps - The first tread and riser at the bottom of the staircase.

Treads - The horizontal portion of the staircase that is walked upon.