Staircase Terminology

Staircase Design and Construction

To design or understand staircases accurately, it is essential to be familiar with the technical terms used in their construction. Each component serves a specific structural and functional purpose, ensuring comfort, safety, and stability.

1. Step

A single combination of a tread and a riser, forming one unit of a stair.

2. Tread

The horizontal top surface of a step on which the foot is placed while ascending or descending.

• Typical size: 250–300 mm.

3. Riser

The vertical face between two consecutive treads.

• Typical size: 150–180 mm.
• Open risers (without vertical boards) are used in modern or light structures.

4. Nosing

The front projecting edge of a tread beyond the face of the riser.

• It provides additional foot space and enhances safety and appearance.

5. Rise

The vertical height between two consecutive treads or between floors.

• The total rise = floor-to-floor height.

6. Going

The horizontal distance between the faces of two consecutive risers.

• In a straight stair, it equals the tread depth (excluding nosing projection).

7. Flight

A series of uninterrupted steps between two landings.

8. Landing

A horizontal platform between two flights or at the top/bottom of a staircase.

• It provides rest and facilitates change in direction.

9. Pitch or Slope

The angle of inclination of the staircase to the horizontal.

• Comfortable pitch: 25°–35°.

10. Headroom

The vertical clear distance between the tread and the ceiling or structure above it.

• Minimum requirement: 2.1 m (2100 mm).

11. Stringer (or String)

The inclined structural member that supports the treads and risers on each side.

• Types:
  • Closed string – covers the ends of treads and risers.
  • Open string – shows the profile of the steps.

12. Newel / Newel Post

A large vertical post at the start, end, or turning point of a stair that supports the handrail and string.

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13. Handrail

A continuous rail fixed parallel to the slope of the stair, provided for user support and safety.

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14. Baluster

A vertical member (circular or rectangular) supporting the handrail.

• Also acts as a safety barrier to prevent falls.

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15. Balustrade

The complete assembly of handrail, balusters, and base rail forming the side protection of a staircase.

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16. Baserail

The bottom rail fixed along the top of the string or landing on which the balusters stand.

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17. Newel Cap

The decorative top element placed on the newel post.

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18. Bullnose Step

The first step of a staircase with one or both ends rounded for a decorative appearance.

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19. Curtail Step

The bottom step of a staircase where the tread is curved or scrolled, often supporting a newel post.

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20. Winder

A tapered step used to change the direction of the stair without a landing.

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21. Stairwell

The vertical shaft or open space in which a staircase is located.

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22. Stair Width

The clear horizontal distance between the two strings or handrails.

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23. Continuous Handrail

A handrail that runs smoothly over newels and landings without interruption, ensuring safety and aesthetic flow.

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24. Balustrading Height

The minimum height of the balustrade or handrail, generally 900–1000 mm above the pitch line.

Summary Table

Term	Meaning / Function
Tread	Horizontal step surface
Riser	Vertical face between treads
Nosing	Projecting front edge of tread
Flight	Series of steps between landings
Landing	Rest platform
Stringer	Support beam for treads/risers
Newel Post	Main supporting post
Handrail	Support rail for users
Baluster	Vertical support for handrail
Balustrade	Entire protective assembly
Headroom	Vertical clearance above steps

Staircase Design and Construction

Staircase Terminology | Types of Staircases | Functions and Importance