Do I need newel posts?

It’s a question that we get asked a lot – do I need newel posts? The answer is not always straightforward – here are a couple of things to consider:

• If we are installing steel spindles, we generally need to fix directly into the stringer – we suggest a minimum width of 40mm to prevent ‘breakout’.
• If the staircase is existing / original and has been designed for timber spindles, it will likely only be 30mm wide. In which case we would either get a secure fixing into the base of the newels, or manufacture a baserail which will give us more depth to drill into.
• If we are installing new timber spindles, the newel posts will likely need to remain in place for structural strength.
• Newel posts can generally be cut down on site but will reveal end grain – we usually cap them off with flat caps – see image below
• The design of the balustrade may need to be altered to comply with building regs – ensuring there are no gaps larger than 100mm diameter, for example.