A MATTER OF NEWEL POST

If you're making your own railing for a staircase, you'll need to grasp the numerous pieces that make up a sturdy staircase. After all, you don't want to accidentally substitute one piece for another and run the danger of creating a substandard, unstable handrail. The newel post is one such element. Describe a newel post. It serves as the stabilizing post for a stair railing. We'll discuss the function of newel posts in a railing, how to tell them apart from balusters, and where to find trustworthy newel posts in this post.

The supporting post in the railing of a staircase is called a newel post. In a spiral staircase, the staircase spirals itself around the center post. There are several newel posts in a typical, non-spiral railing: at the top and bottom of the railing, as well as at each stair landing. We'll utilize the second definition—newels for non-spiral staircases—for the benefit of our goods because spiral staircase newels are significantly less common.

Terminology and etymology

The term newel comes from the Latin word nodus, which means knot or knob. The term changed through time, becoming nodellus in medieval Latin and nouel in old French, before finally becoming what we use today. It seems likely that the term "newel" came from the word "knob," as many home railings have a spherical knob on top of the newel post.

The function of newel posts

In order to support the rail, newel posts, which are higher and thicker than spindles or balusters, are used. The railing is straight and solid rather than flimsy and wobbly, thanks to the newel posts. Additionally, newel posts have to be set up where the stairs change directions,whether it’s a new flight of stairs or a full 90-degree turn.

Although their primary role is structural, newel posts can also have an aesthetic purpose. Newel posts can be used as decorative embellishments since they are placed at the start, finish, and frequently the corners of the railing. You may choose a more conventional newel post for a classic appearance or a modern form to provide a contemporary aesthetic when building your staircase.

Newel posts in history

Although they have a significant purpose, newel posts are also eye-catching architectural features with a unique charm. However, if you keep an eye out, you may frequently notice ancient newel posts and balustrades in older structures. According to Architectural Observer, many historical buildings have lost their original newel posts and balustrades in the name of renovation. Consider large Southern plantation mansions or elaborate newel posts that adorn grand staircases at historic theaters as examples of homes constructed in the 1850s that frequently have Greek Revival, Gothic Revival, and Italianate characteristics. It's tough to resist the distinctive charm of elaborate newel posts once you start to notice them.

What distinguishes newels from balusters?

Balusters and newels are sometimes mistaken, although they are not the same. In order to eliminate gaps that might jeopardize users' safety, balusters are frequently positioned closer together in railings, usually within a few inches of one another. Balusters fill in the spaces between the newels to make your staircase even safer while also offering some structural support. Both stairway parts are necessary in the end; they only serve distinct purposes.