Spacing spindles can be difficult. It is imperative to get the spacing correct in order to ensure a secure balustrade and a safe journey up and down stairs. Placing spindles too far apart can result in a reduction in stability, so that the banister is weak and not supported correctly. Getting stair spindle spacing too close together can result in a reduction in light, leading to an aesthetically displeasing staircase.
Staircase construction is all too easy to get wrong. A faulty staircase can not only be an aesthetic disaster, but also dangerous to set foot on. With that in mind, there is a set of very simple measurements and calculations that can be made in order to ensure that stair spindle spacing is even and well installed.
There are just a few simple steps towards having the perfect number of spindles spaced along the balustrade:
THE RAKE
For the rake (or stairs) simply follow the rule:
RAKE = ([number of steps] * 2) – 2
So, you just need to count the number of steps (or treads) on a single flight, excluding the landing, and multiply by two (to allow for two spindles per step) and finally subtract two (as we only want one spindle on the top and bom steps, to allow for the newel posts).
THE LANDING
On the landing you will need to whip out that tape measure to record the length of the landing and the balustrade. It’s also handy to know the width of your spindles – which can range from 32mm to 41mm. The following rule then applies:
LANDING = ([landing length] – 80 / (80 + [spindle width]).
Here we are using 80mm as the spindle spacing (which must be less than 100mm) – as we find it works best. Either-way, make sure you round-up to the largest whole number if your calculation results in a decimal value.
Following the above tips should ensure a spectacular staircase with perfect stair spindle spacing. However it’s also worth noting that some ranges come with a pre-drilled balustrade ready to slot spindles into. In this instance you will need to refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for spacing.
Need some help planning your stairs, answer a few questions on our quick planner and we will do the hard work for you working out numbers of spindles and all the products you will need.
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