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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.

multiturn-staircase-terminology

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
RESOURCES

Everything you should know about your stairs, including building regulations.

BLOG
BLOG

Sharing our expertise and the latest design ideas, tips and trends.

GALLERY
GALLERY

Take a look at some of our previous projects, all made exclusively by us.

GOT A PROJECT YOU'D LIKE TO DISCUSS?

Talk to one of our expert team or send us your plans for a no obligation quote.

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