What Is a Baluster & How Does It Work?
What is a stair baluster?
No matter if you are updating your current set, or installing new ones, all staircases require balusters. This begs the question, what is a baluster? Read on for all the insight and information you need.
In this guide:
What Is a Baluster?
What Is a Baluster Used For?
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a Baluster?
A staircase is broken up into a number of components, each of which has a specific name. These then come together to create a safe and beautiful set of stairs for your home. Whether you have porch stairs, deck stairs, interior, or exterior stairs, they will all comprise the following pieces:
Baluster: The terms baluster and spindle can be used interchangeably. They both refer to the vertical posts or legs on a staircase railing. These balusters are attached in a closely spaced formation to either the floor or to a secondary support called the base rail – depending on the design. More often than not, balusters are sold in sets due to the fact that a number of them will be required for your staircase.
Balustrade: When the balusters are all installed onto the base rail or the stairs and are connected via a railing placed on top, this is known as the balustrade (supported by baluster posts at the ends).
Banister: Many people mistakenly refer to the balustrade as the banister, however they are not interchangeable terms. The banister is the railing placed on top of the balusters to complete the balustrade and used as a safety and support for you to hold onto as you climb up and down the stairs.
A baluster, or rather the collection of balusters within the balustrade, work to support the banister above them. They also perform a safety function by creating smaller gaps between posts to prevent people from falling through. Finally, balusters also have an aesthetic purpose too. Due to the wide range of styles and shapes of balustrades, as well as the variety of materials they can be made from, balusters contribute to the style and overall look of the staircase.
Tip!
You may be tempted to space your balusters further apart to save money and require less materials, however this is not an option as building codes require that balusters be placed four inches or less apart from one another. This equates to around three balusters for every foot of railing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary function of a baluster?
Balusters support the banister and enhance safety by reducing gaps between posts.
How far apart should balusters be spaced?
Building codes require balusters to be spaced four inches or less apart.
What is the difference between a balustrade and a banister?
A balustrade includes balusters and a railing, while a banister is the top railing itself.
Tip!
If you are performing a remodel, read our guides about staircase remodeling and staircase renovation.
