Decking newel posts, deck spindles, deck handrail balusters – the different parts of a decked area can be overwhelming. And that’s before we talk about balusters, balustrades and banisters! Read on to find out exactly what all these are.
What is a balustrade?
This is perhaps the term that confuses most people, but the dictionary definition of a balustrade is “a set of posts or a screen to prevent people from falling over the edge of stairs, a balcony, etc., often with a wooden, metal, or stone bar on top that you can hold” (Cambridge dictionary). From this description, when applied to a decked area, it is easier to see a balustrade as being made up itself of several components to form the barrier around the edge of the decking.
What is a baluster?
A baluster is a component of a balustrade. On decking, this is a vertical piece, usually timber, that supports a top handrail. Balusters sit directly on top of the decking.
What is a spindle?
Serving the same purpose as balusters in a balustrade, deck spindles are normally supported at the bottom by a base rail which is attached to newel posts. Like balusters, spindles are key components in a decking balustrade where no decking panels are being used. The word spindle is often used in place of baluster.
What is a newel post?
Decking newel posts are the larger supporting posts positioned at the corners of decking or at the end of a run of spindles. They form the strength of a balustrade, being sturdy enough to support the handrail while preserving the integrity of the structure.
To understand exactly where all these components are used in a decked area, see our article What are the different parts of a wooden deck called?
Decking from Witham Timber
Suppliers of quality garden timber products for over 40 years, Witham Timber has a wide selection of decking supplies. Our decking newel posts come in a choice of profiles and tops while our deck spindles offer the choice of a modern, chamfered profile or a classic colonial turned aesthetic.
In addition to spindles and newel posts, we also supply all necessary components for a complete decking system, a core part of our extensive range of landscaping products. Our range includes timber decking boards and decking joists, decking panels and decking handrails, as well as all necessary decking fixings. All timber products are manufactured from graded timber that is kiln-dried and pressure treated prior to sale.
For those looking for an eco-friendly alternative to timber decking, we also supply a wide choice of TREX composite decking. Our article Composite decking Vs timber decking – which is best? is a must-read if you are undecided!
Our experienced sales team members have a wealth of experience and are happy to offer help and advice for all your decking needs. Simply call us today on 01205 359188 or email us at sales@withamtimber.co.uk