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Installing Newel Posts
Installing newel posts requires careful planning to make sure the proper product is purchased to meet the proper installation. Stairways come in many different shapes and layouts: straight, curved or helical, L-Shaped, U-Shaped, Left, Right, and the list goes on and on. It is essential to understand the heights of newel posts and where the handrail is going to join for a continuous look.
Typical handrail height is 34" to 38" as measured off the nose of the stair tread on pitched stairways and 42" at landings. It is always best to check the code in your area to make sure you comply with local building codes.
"Post to Post", as illustrated on the left is one method, and "Over the Post" as illustrated on the right is the other method of installing newel posts. Both of these applications require different products and installation techniques. Newel posts are the structural component of the stairway and should be placed at the top and bottom of all stairway systems, at all directional changes and on landings at no more than 9' intervals.
Post to Post - Designed where the upper square block recieves the handrail. The upper block of the newel posts vary in size from 5", 6-1/2", 10" and 13" depending on the product family selected. Larger top blocks are used on landings and balconies to keep the height of the handrail consistent with the floor level, and one section of handrail is higher than the other. The illustrations below are examples of how newel posts are used in differing applications.
Over the Post - designed where the top of the newel post has a 3/4" pin to accept a handrail fitting, these are commonly referred to as pin top newel posts. The posts are used on the same intervals as post to post: at the top and bottom of the stairway, all directional changes and on landings. Wherever a post is installed, a unique handrail fitting is applied to that position to accept the handrail.
Newel posts are fastened using a sure-tite fastening system to either the floor, the landing or the starting steps. In some applications, you can fasten the newel post to the landing by countersinking holes into the side of the post, insert a screw through the post and into the structure, and then plugging the hole to hide the countersunk screw.
Always make a drawing of your stairway prior to beginning your process of ordering any parts. This will assist you in making the right choices, ordering the correct components. As always, if you need help with your design, you can call Stairway Creations Supply, our trained staff will be happy to answer your questions, and if necessary, you can send us your drawing and we will help you choose the right components.
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