BALUSTERS - The vertical posts which support the railing of the staircase. The term "Balustrade" refers to the baluster and rail system.

COVE MOULDING -Decorative strip which when attached to the underside of the tread nosing, covers the joint between the tread and riser.

FILLET - Strips which fill the plow between balusters on plowed handrail & shoe rail.

FITTINGS - The stair parts used to form a smooth transition when the handrail changes height or makes a turn at a landing or a balcony.

HANDRAILS - The horizontal or rake member of a balustrade system. It sits on top of the balusters and is supported by newel posts.

NEWELS - Major support posts for the balustrade system. Larger and heavier than the balusters, newels are located at the bottom and top of a staircase and at turns and critical support areas of balcony rails.

NOSING - The portion of a tread or landing tread which protrudes beyond the face of the riser.

RISERS - The vertical components of a stair which support the treads.

SHOE RAIL - A piece running along the floor which is plowed for the insertion of balusters and fillets.

STARTING STEPS - The first tread and riser at the bottom of the staircase.

TREADS - The horizontal portion of the staircase.