Stair Parts 101
Stairs are one of the most architecturally significant features of the home and also one of the most challenging to design. To aid in the design process, we have outlined several details which should be taken into consideration when selecting stair parts for any project whether the project involves renovation or new construction.
Ready to compile your stair parts? Download our Stair Parts Takeoff form, fill it out and take it with you to one of our dealer locations.
There are, predominantly, two standard types of stairway installations determined by the location of the handrail on the stair system; Post-to-Post & Over-the-Post.


- In a Post-to-Post installation, the handrail is mounted in between newel posts.
- In an Over-the-Post installation, the handrail runs over the top of newel posts, allowing for one continuous, flowing handrail.





There are many more options when choose stair parts and you have now reached the point that bring your Contractor back in, would be in your best interest. In addition to Handrail, Balusters/Infill and Newels, there are several additional stair parts which are integral to the stair system such as treads, risers, nosings, etc. These are somewhat more reliant upon the unique placement of the staircase within the floor plan. For example, will the stairway run alongside a wall? Will it be between two full-height walls? Is it completely free-standing? To address the needs of each unique stair system and select the correct parts, we recommend bringing your initial selections and/or take-off form, to your contractor or one of our dealers to finalize the remaining parts necessary to complete your project.