Baluster spacing

Baluster spacing

The spacing between balusters is set for safety: the clear gap must be no more than 10–12 cm.

01 /Safe spacing norms

The baluster spacing (the distance between axes or elements) is calculated primarily for safety, to rule out the risk of a person or pet falling through.

  • 👦 Child safety (the main rule). Per GOST and SNiP, the clear gap between balusters must not exceed 10–12 cm. This prevents a child's head from getting stuck.
  • 🪵 Wooden balusters (40–50 mm). Installed at 12–15 cm between axes. Usually 2 balusters per step.
  • ⚙️ Thin metal posts (12–20 mm). Placed 2–3 per step so the gap between them stays within 10 cm.
  • 🧱 Massive concrete or stone balustrades. Because the elements are wide, they are set at 20–25 cm between axes, keeping the clear gap within 12 cm.

Related articles

Railings

Newel post width

Support posts carry the main load and are much more massive than balusters — from 70 to 150 mm.

Materials

Materials

Which wood a staircase is made of. Oak and ash are the strongest, pine is the most affordable.

Stair Type

Straight staircase

The simplest classic configuration — connects two levels in a straight line, with no turns and no change of direction.