Newel post width
Support posts carry the main load and are much more massive than balusters — from 70 to 150 mm.
01 /Post sizes by material
The width of a staircase's support (newel) posts is 70 to 150 mm depending on the design and material. These posts carry the main mechanical load, so they are always significantly more massive and wider than ordinary balusters.
- Wooden posts. Standard section 80×80 mm or 100×100 mm. For large grand staircases, massive carved posts 120–150 mm wide are made.
- ⚙️ Metal (profile tube). Round section 42–50 mm in diameter or square 40×40 or 50×50 mm with a wall thickness of 2–3 mm.
- 🧱 Concrete and stone. Entrance and outdoor balustrades need powerful supports: such posts range from 150×150 mm to 300×300 mm.
02 /Placement and mounting rules
- Placement. Posts are always installed at the start and end of each flight, as well as at landing turns.
- Strength margin. A support post must withstand a lateral load of at least 100 kg per metre. It is the posts and the handrail that take the load, while balusters are more of a decorative element and child protection.
- Pairing with balusters. Traditionally a post should be at least 1.5–2 times wider than an ordinary baluster (for example, a 90×90 mm post and 45×45 mm balusters).
