Key staircase dimensions:
- Handrail height: 34″
- Tread: 10″
- Riser: 7.75″
- Nosing: .5″ to 1″
- Stair width: 36″
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 don’t have balusters. Instead they have solid sides, often glass. Here’s 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).
34″ is the standard minimum height.
3. Stringers
The stringer is the portion that supports or ties-together the steps. It’s on the side of the steps. There are 2 stringers on a staircase.
For staircases that are against the wall, there’s 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 10″.
5. Riser
The riser is the portion of the staircase that rises vertically. It’s the face of the steps. It’s usually made of the same material as the tread.
Standard riser height for residential home staircases is 7.75″.
6. Nosing
While not indicated in our above staircase illustration, it’s the lip of the tread that extends beyond the top of the riser. It’s typically 1/2″ to 1″ long.
7. Stair Width
Most building codes stipulate that stairs be no less than 36″ 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.
