Where did newel post get its name?
newel (n.) Klein’s sources suggest the French word may be from Gallo-Roman *nucale, from Latin nux “nut.” The carpentry meaning “tall and more or less ornamental post at the top or bottom of a staircase” is from 1833 (newel-post in this sense is from 1798).
What is a newel post in construction?
A newel, also called a central pole or support column, is the central supporting pillar of a staircase. It can also refer to an upright post that supports and/or terminates the handrail of a stair banister (the “newel post”).
What is the post at the end of the stairs called?
newel
The post (also called a newel) is the vertical structure that connects the stair or floor to the railing system. Spindles, which are vertical wood or metal structures, are interspersed between posts to provide a safety barrier along the stair system. Shoe is the bottom plate that spindles (or glass) are set into.
What are the polls on stairs called?
Balusters run from the stairs to the handrail. Balusters, also known as spindles, are the thin poles that go from the tread to the handrail.
What is newel post in stairs?
Newel posts – Newels are the large post found at the foot and at the top of any flight of stairs. They can also be found at key junctures of a staircase, for example where there is a change of direction. They come in a range of styles, including box newels (which are box shape) and turned newels (which are curved).
Are spindles and balusters the same?
A baluster and spindle is actually almost the same thing, but the word spindle is more commonly used because it is easier to remember and say. Balusters usually rest on a footing; this could be a step, floor or deck, whereas, spindles are supported by a horizontal rail at the bottom that is attached to the posts.
What is the first step of a staircase called?
The swell step is the first step on the stairs. It can also be called the starter step. It is often larger than the rest of steps.
What is the newel at the bottom of the stairs called?
The post (also called a newel) is the vertical structure that connects the stair or floor to the railing system. Spindles, which are vertical wood or metal structures, are interspersed between posts to provide a safety barrier along the stair system. Shoe is the bottom plate that spindles (or glass) are set into. 3.
What is the top of a newel post called?
finial
A finial is a decorative piece at the top of a newel post. Finials are commonly found made of wood in the shape of a ball but can also be quite ornate and made of glass or metal.
What are parts of stairs called?
Most people are aware of some stair parts names such as the tread, riser, landing and handrail. But unless you are an architect or builder, you may not be familiar with staircase terminology such as baluster, stringer, volute, bullnose or newel post.
What is a landing newel?
Landing Newel Posts are used when ever you have a level change, such as a middle or upper landing, and the handrail changes the height. The block top on the landing newel is usually 13 inches tall.
What is the post at the bottom of stairs called?
The post (also called a newel) is the vertical structure that connects the stair or floor to the railing system. Spindles, which are vertical wood or metal structures, are interspersed between posts to provide a safety barrier along the stair system. Shoe is the bottom plate that spindles (or glass) are set into.
What is the back of stairs called?
The back part of the step is the riser. Risers are the vertical pieces at the back of each step that keeps your toe from going any further.
What is the meaning of newel post?
new·el | \\ˈnü-əl, ˈnyü-\\. 1 : an upright post about which the steps of a circular staircase wind. 2 : a post at the foot of a straight stairway or one at a landing.
What is the purpose of a newel post on stairs?
The newel post serves two very important functions. First and foremost, it is a structural element of the staircase. Since it is not always possible to fix one (or both) sides of a staircase to the wall, the newel post is the load-bearing element that supports that side. It also helps support the weight on the handrail.
Can newel posts be carved?
More complex newel posts can be carved and shaped without a turning machine. Those carved by hand are likely freeform carved newel posts, which can have any ranges of designs, while those carved using computer-based designs and machines are simply called carved newel posts.
What is the name of the button on a newel post?
Finally, you may find some historic newel posts with a small ivory or mother of pearl inlay button, called the ”mortgage button” or ”amity button.”