Metal Handrail for Stairs Measurements – SHS Jargon Buster Vol. 4

We’re exploring the terms used for measuring your stairs to fit a balustrade or metal handrail.

Metal handrail measurements for stairs can be complex, and this is due to the different angles and measurements required.

Many of our customers measure their own fitting areas for a metal handrail. To help you out, we’ve made note of the lesser-known terminology when measuring up your stair space.

Did you know about these different metal handrail measurements?

Going/Stair Tread

This is the depth of the step. If you imagine just one step, the going is the distance from the front edge of that step (nose) to the back of the step. This is also known as the stair tread, with that name coming from the fact that this part of the step is what you would walk on.

Rise/Riser

Again, if you imagine one step, the rise is the height of that step from the floor to the top of that step.

Overhang

The name might give it away, but the overhang is the part of the step that juts out over the front of the riser.

Nose/Nosing

The nose or nosing is the horizontal edge of the step that juts out.

Stringer

The stringer is the piece of material that sits on the side of the stairs that acts as a side panel.

Raking Nose to Nose

The raking is the distance from the bottom nose to the top nose on a staircase.

If you’re measuring your stairs for a metal handrail or balustrade, then remember to check out our handy instruction video here. For more information on measuring up your balustrade contact our team today!

Are you ready to get an instant quote for your perfect metal handrail? Click here!