What is the end of a handrail called?

Staircase Terminology: What’s at the End of a Handrail?

Brief Summary

The end of a handrail can have different names depending on its design and placement within the staircase. Common terms include newel post, volute, gooseneck, rosette, and easing. Each element serves a specific purpose, both functionally and aesthetically.

Expanded Answer

Newel Post: The Anchor Point

• The newel post is the sturdy, vertical support at the beginning or end of a staircase, or where the handrail changes direction (e.g., at a landing or turn).
• It acts as a structural anchor for the handrail, ensuring stability and safety.
• Newel posts can be simple or ornate, featuring decorative elements like caps, bases, and turned or carved designs.

Volute: The Graceful Curve

• A volute is a spiral-shaped handrail termination, often found at the bottom of a staircase with a curved starting step (bullnose step).
• It adds a touch of elegance and visual interest to the staircase, creating a smooth transition from the handrail to the newel post or floor.
• Volutes can be right- or left-handed, depending on the direction of the handrail’s curve.

Gooseneck: The Vertical Transition

• The gooseneck is the vertical section of the handrail that connects a sloped handrail to a higher handrail on a landing or balcony.
• It facilitates a smooth and continuous transition between different levels, ensuring uninterrupted support for users.
• Goosenecks can be simple or decorative, depending on the overall staircase design.

Rosette: The Wall-Mounted Ending

• A rosette is a decorative element used to terminate a handrail that ends directly into a wall, without a newel post.
• It provides a finished look and conceals the end of the handrail.
• Rosettes come in various styles and materials, allowing for customization to match the staircase’s aesthetic.

Easing: The Horizontal Extension

• Easing refers to the horizontal portion of a wall-mounted handrail that extends beyond the top or bottom step.
• It provides additional support and helps users maintain balance as they transition from the stairs to the landing or floor.
• Building codes often require easing, especially in commercial settings and for ADA compliance.

Additional Considerations

• Building Codes and Safety: Regardless of the specific handrail termination used, it must comply with building codes, ensuring adequate height, strength, and graspable surface for user safety.
• Design Harmony: The choice of handrail termination should complement the overall staircase design and architectural style of the home.
• Material and Finish: Select a material and finish that harmonizes with the handrail and other staircase components, creating a cohesive and visually pleasing look.

Conclusion

The end of a handrail is not simply a termination point but an opportunity for both functionality and aesthetic expression. Various elements like newel posts, volutes, goosenecks, rosettes, and easing can be used to create a safe, comfortable, and visually appealing transition. Understanding these terms and their applications allows you to make informed decisions when designing or renovating your staircase, ensuring a harmonious blend of form and function.