
Key staircase dimensions:
- Handrail height: 34โณ
- Tread: 10โณ
- Riser: 7.75โณ
- Nosing: .5โณ to 1โณ
- Stair width: 36โณ
Above is our custom illustrated chart showcasing the different parts of a staircase.
Below are descriptions of each part. See our types of staircases diagrams for more information.
Baluster
The baluster are the spindles that hold up the handrail. The baluster also contributes to overall design of the staircase. You can have highly ornate balusters or simple/plain.
a) Ornate baluster

b) Plain staircase baluster

c) Metal baluster

d) Staircase without a baluster
Some staircases donโt have balusters. Instead they have solid sides, often glass. Hereโs an example.

2. Handrail
The handrail is the part that forms the top of the railing. If the staircase has balusters, it sits on the balusters.
Most are made from wood or metal. Some are wide (5 to 6 inches) while others narrow (2 inches).
34โณ is the standard minimum height.
3. Stringers
The stringer is the portion that supports or ties-together the steps. Itโs on the side of the steps. There are 2 stringers on a staircase.
For staircases that are against the wall, thereโs an open stringer which is exposed and a closed stringer which is the wall or is built into the wall.
4. Tread
The tread is the top or flat step surface. This is what you step on ascending or descending the staircase.
For homes, the tread is made of wood usually, but can be metal or even glass.
As for the surface itself, hardwood, carpet, laminate, tile or even concrete is used.
Some staircases include runners which is a strip of carpet down the center of the stairs which also flows down the center of the treads.
Standard tread depth (i.e. from riser to end of tread) is 10โณ.
5. Riser
The riser is the portion of the staircase that rises vertically. Itโs the face of the steps. Itโs usually made of the same material as the tread.
Standard riser height for residential home staircases is 7.75โณ.
6. Nosing
While not indicated in our above staircase illustration, itโs the lip of the tread that extends beyond the top of the riser. Itโs typically 1/2โณ to 1โณ long.
7. Stair Width
Most building codes stipulate that stairs be no less than 36โณ wide.
8. Newel
The newel is the main post at bottom and top that lends main support for the handrail banister.
IMPORTANT: While we set out staircase dimensions above, it is important you check with your the building code applicable to your jurisdiction for precise staircase dimensions.
