Balusters | Spindles

Balusters | Spindles

Description
Description

Balusters, often referred to as spindles, are slender vertical members used to support the handrails of staircases and to form a protective barrier along balconies or decks. They are typically arranged in a series and spaced evenly to create a balustrade. While serving a crucial safety function by preventing falls, they also play a significant role in aesthetics. Balusters can be crafted from various materials such as wood, metal, or glass, and designed in countless styles ranging from simple to ornate. Their incorporation in construction is not only for structural integrity but also for enhancing the architectural character of spaces.

Balusters trace their origins to ancient times, with early examples found in Assyrian and Roman architecture. During the Renaissance, they gained prominence in Europe, particularly in Italy, where they were often ornately carved. The term "baluster" itself is derived from the Italian "balaustro" or pomegranate flower, which the shape resembled. Through the centuries, materials and styles evolved, and today balusters are integral to both traditional and modern design, utilizing materials like wood, metal, and glass.

Common Questions
Common Questions
What is the maximum spacing of a baluster?

The maximum spacing between balusters is generally designed to prevent a small child from passing through. In the United States, building codes typically require that balusters be spaced no more than 4 inches (about 10 centimeters) apart. In many other countries, including those in Europe, the standard is similar, often specifying a maximum gap of 100 millimeters (about 3.94 inches). It's essential to consult local building codes as regulations can vary by location.

Can balusters be horizontal?

Yes, balusters can be arranged horizontally, and this design is often termed as horizontal railings or balustrades. However, horizontal balusters can pose a safety hazard, especially for children, as they may be tempted to climb them, making them akin to ladder rungs. This can lead to dangerous falls. Because of this risk, some building codes and regulations discourage or even prohibit the use of horizontal balusters in certain settings, especially in residential constructions.

What is the difference between a baluster and a newel?

A baluster is a slender vertical member that supports the handrail and forms part of the protective barrier along stairs or elevated surfaces. Newel posts, on the other hand, are much more substantial and robust vertical posts positioned at the beginning, end, or turns of a staircase. While balusters are primarily used in a series to support handrails, newel posts serve as the main structural support for the staircase and handrail system.

* Under Development *

4” | 10.2 cm (Sphere)
Baluster Spacing
10.200
1300
GUIDE
3D
Baluster Spacing
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
1.75” | 4.4 cm
1.75” | 4.4 cm
Baluster - Bunker Hill, Pin Top
96.500
4.400
4.400
0
https://p3d.in/e/mMwCd
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Bunker Hill, Pin Top3D model of Pin Top Bunker Hill Baluster viewed in perspective3D model of Pin Top Bunker Hill Baluster viewed in perspective
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
1.75” | 4.4 cm
1.75” | 4.4 cm
Baluster - Bunker Hill, Square Top
96.500
4.400
4.400
0
https://p3d.in/e/WyHvk
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Bunker Hill, Square TopPerspective view of a 3D model of Square Top Bunker Hill BalusterPerspective view of a 3D model of Square Top Bunker Hill Baluster
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
1.75” | 4.4 cm
1.75” | 4.4 cm
Baluster - Classic, Pin Top
96.500
4.400
4.400
70
https://p3d.in/e/4Mdlx
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Classic, Pin TopView of Pin Top Classic Baluster in 3D available for downloadView of Pin Top Classic Baluster in 3D available for download
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
1.75” | 4.4 cm
1.75” | 4.4 cm
Baluster - Classic, Square Top
96.500
4.400
4.400
70
https://p3d.in/e/dYxPE
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Classic, Square Top3D model of Square Top Classic Baluster viewed in perspective3D model of Square Top Classic Baluster viewed in perspective
21.5” | 54.5 cm
8.7” | 22 cm
8.7” | 22 cm
Baluster - Colchester
54.500
22.000
22.000
0
https://p3d.in/e/ztmbW
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Colchester3D model of Colchester Baluster viewed in perspective3D model of Colchester Baluster viewed in perspective
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
1.25” | 3.2 cm
1.25” | 3.2 cm
Baluster - Colonial, Pin Top
96.500
3.200
3.200
80
https://p3d.in/e/h19ki
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Colonial, Pin TopPerspective view of a 3D model of Pin Top Colonial BalusterPerspective view of a 3D model of Pin Top Colonial Baluster
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
1.25” | 3.2 cm
1.25” | 3.2 cm
Baluster - Colonial, Square Top
96.500
3.200
3.200
80
https://p3d.in/e/KoPtC
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Colonial, Square TopView of Square Top Colonial Baluster in 3D available for downloadView of Square Top Colonial Baluster in 3D available for download
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
1.25” | 3.2 cm
1.25” | 3.2 cm
Baluster - Hampton, Pin Top
96.500
3.200
3.200
5
https://p3d.in/e/xRhZ5
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Hampton, Pin Top3D model of Pin Top Hampton Baluster viewed in perspective3D model of Pin Top Hampton Baluster viewed in perspective
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
1.25” | 3.2 cm
1.25” | 3.2 cm
Baluster - Hampton, Square Top
96.500
3.200
3.200
5
https://p3d.in/e/ZujWD
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Hampton, Square TopPerspective view of a 3D model of Square Top Hampton BalusterPerspective view of a 3D model of Square Top Hampton Baluster
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
1.5” | 3.8 cm
1.5” | 3.8 cm
Baluster - Knuckle, Double
96.500
3.800
3.800
5
https://p3d.in/e/rspa7
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Knuckle, Double3D model of Double Knuckle Baluster viewed in perspective3D model of Double Knuckle Baluster viewed in perspective
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
1.5” | 3.8 cm
1.5” | 3.8 cm
Baluster - Knuckle, Single
96.500
3.800
3.800
5
https://p3d.in/e/AgERa
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Knuckle, SinglePerspective view of a 3D model of Single Knuckle BalusterPerspective view of a 3D model of Single Knuckle Baluster
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
4” | 10.2 cm
.5” | 1.3 cm
Baluster - Oval
96.500
10.200
1.300
10
https://p3d.in/e/wnH8E
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - OvalView of Oval Baluster in 3D available for downloadView of Oval Baluster in 3D available for download
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
4” | 10.2 cm
.5” | 1.3 cm
Baluster - Oval, Split
96.500
10.200
1.300
10
https://p3d.in/e/ziaNz
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Oval, Split3D model of Split Oval Baluster viewed in perspective3D model of Split Oval Baluster viewed in perspective
20.5” | 52 cm
5.9” | 15 cm
5.9” | 15 cm
Baluster - Oxford
52.000
15.000
15.000
0
https://p3d.in/e/IQnp1
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - OxfordPerspective view of a 3D model of Oxford BalusterPerspective view of a 3D model of Oxford Baluster
18.5” | 47 cm
4.7” | 12 cm
4.7” | 12 cm
Baluster - Pembroke
47.000
12.000
12.000
0
https://p3d.in/e/MLMBq
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - PembrokeView of Pembroke Baluster in 3D available for downloadView of Pembroke Baluster in 3D available for download
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
4” | 10.2 cm
.5” | 1.3 cm
Baluster - Rectangle
96.500
10.200
1.300
80
https://p3d.in/e/bmypr
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - RectanglePerspective view of a 3D model of Rectangle BalusterPerspective view of a 3D model of Rectangle Baluster
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
4” | 10.2 cm
.5” | 1.3 cm
Baluster - Rectangle, Split
96.500
10.200
1.300
80
https://p3d.in/e/2ewzQ
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Rectangle, SplitView of Split Rectangle Baluster in 3D available for downloadView of Split Rectangle Baluster in 3D available for download
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
4” | 10.2 cm
.5” | 1.3 cm
Baluster - Ring, Double
96.500
10.200
1.300
0
https://p3d.in/e/2YUfb
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Ring, Double3D model of Double Ring Baluster viewed in perspective3D model of Double Ring Baluster viewed in perspective
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
4” | 10.2 cm
.5” | 1.3 cm
Baluster - Ring, Single
96.500
10.200
1.300
0
https://p3d.in/e/DPBHv
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Ring, SinglePerspective view of a 3D model of Single Ring BalusterPerspective view of a 3D model of Single Ring Baluster
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
.625”-1.25” | 1.6-3.2 cm (Diameter)
.625”-1.25” | 1.6-3.2 cm (Diameter)
Baluster - Round
96.500
3.200
3.200
90
https://p3d.in/e/ssY2n
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - RoundView of Round Baluster in 3D available for downloadView of Round Baluster in 3D available for download
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
1.25”, 1.75” | 3.2, 4.4 cm
1.25”, 1.75” | 3.2, 4.4 cm
Baluster - Round, Tapered
96.500
4.400
4.400
90
https://p3d.in/e/fPZXz
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Round, Tapered3D model of Tapered Round Baluster viewed in perspective3D model of Tapered Round Baluster viewed in perspective
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
.5”-1.75” | 1.3-4.4 cm
.5”-1.75” | 1.3-4.4 cm
Baluster - Square
96.500
4.400
4.400
400
https://p3d.in/e/Vvp8J
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - SquarePerspective view of a 3D model of Square BalusterPerspective view of a 3D model of Square Baluster
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
1.75” | 4.4 cm
1.75” | 4.4 cm
Baluster - Utah, Pin Top
96.500
4.400
4.400
0
https://p3d.in/e/V57Zz
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Utah, Pin TopView of Pin Top Utah Baluster in 3D available for downloadView of Pin Top Utah Baluster in 3D available for download
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
1.75” | 4.4 cm
1.75” | 4.4 cm
Baluster - Utah, Square Top
96.500
4.400
4.400
0
https://p3d.in/e/eHwzr
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - Utah, Square Top3D model of Square Top Utah Baluster viewed in perspective3D model of Square Top Utah Baluster viewed in perspective
21.5” | 54.6 cm
5.3” | 13.4 cm
5.3” | 13.4 cm
Baluster - York
54.600
13.400
13.400
0
https://p3d.in/e/BZzDw
GUIDE
3D
Baluster - York3D model of York Baluster viewed in perspective3D model of York Baluster viewed in perspective
Baluster - Round
Scale illustration of Round Baluster compared to other baluster types

A Round Baluster is a stairway support with a circular cross-section profile, available in a range of sizes and crafted from materials like wood or steel. It ensures structural solidity while offering a traditional, timeless aesthetic. Its rounded profile provides a softer, fluid design element in contrast to more angular alternatives. This baluster style embodies the perfect blend of functional stability and classic elegance, making it a suitable choice for a wide variety of architectural and interior styles, from the traditional to the contemporary.

Round Balusters are commonly available with overall diameters between .625”-1.25” (1.6-3.2 cm). Lengths of balusters vary depending on their placement in a balustrade, but are typically sized to match handrail heights of 34”-38” (86.4-96.5 cm).

Group of dimensioned illustrations of Round Baluster seen in elevation with varied patterns
A Round Baluster is a stairway support with a circular cross-section profile, available in a range of sizes and crafted from materials like wood or steel. It ensures structural solidity while offering a traditional, timeless aesthetic. Its rounded profile provides a softer, fluid design element.

Round Balusters are commonly available with overall diameters between .625”-1.25” (1.6-3.2 cm). Lengths of balusters vary depending on their placement in a balustrade, but are typically sized to match handrail heights of 34”-38” (86.4-96.5 cm).

Group of dimensioned illustrations of Round Baluster seen in elevation with varied patterns
Baluster - Round
Height:
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
Width:
.625”-1.25” | 1.6-3.2 cm (Diameter)
Length:
Depth:
.625”-1.25” | 1.6-3.2 cm (Diameter)
Weight:
Area:
Materials
Wood or steel

Drawings include:

Round Baluster elevation, plan, front

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Baluster - Ring, Double
Comparison drawing of Double Ring Baluster compared to similar baluster types

A Double Ring Baluster is a stairway support featuring two circular elements within its design, often paired with vertical bars in balustrades. Made from materials like wood or metal, it ensures structural integrity while delivering a unique visual effect. The dual rings provide focal points that break the vertical linearity and enrich the design's dynamic appeal. This style of baluster strikes a balance between minimalist elegance and geometric interest, ideal for those looking to add a touch of sophistication to their interior designs.

Double Ring Balusters have an overall width of 4” (10.2 cm), depth of .5” (1.3 cm), and ring placement at 7” (17.8 cm) from the handrail. Lengths of balusters vary depending on their placement in a balustrade, but are typically sized to match handrail heights of 34”-38” (86.4-96.5 cm).

Scaled set of drawings of Double Ring Baluster in varied side views
A Double Ring Baluster is a stairway support featuring two circular elements within its design, often paired with vertical bars in balustrades. Made from materials like wood or metal, it ensures structural integrity while delivering a unique visual effect.

Double Ring Balusters have an overall width of 4” (10.2 cm), depth of .5” (1.3 cm), and ring placement at 7” (17.8 cm) from the handrail. Lengths of balusters vary depending on their placement in a balustrade, but are typically sized to match handrail heights of 34”-38” (86.4-96.5 cm).

Scaled set of drawings of Double Ring Baluster in varied side views
Baluster - Ring, Double
Height:
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
Width:
4” | 10.2 cm
Length:
Depth:
.5” | 1.3 cm
Weight:
Area:

Top Height: 7” | 17.8 cm

Materials
Wood or steel

Drawings include:

Double Ring Baluster elevation, plan, front

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Baluster - Ring, Single
Style and size comparison drawing of Single Ring Baluster compared to other baluster types

A Single Ring Baluster is a stairway support featuring a single circular element at the center, typically paired with vertical bars in balustrades. Crafted from materials like wood or metal, it offers structural stability while introducing a unique aesthetic. The solitary ring provides a point of visual interest, breaking the linearity and enhancing the design's dynamic quality. This baluster style embodies a balance between minimalist elegance and geometric interest, making it an appealing choice for a wide range of interior designs.

Single Ring Balusters have an overall width of 4” (10.2 cm), depth of .5” (1.3 cm), and ring placement at 16” (40.6 cm) from the handrail. Lengths of balusters vary depending on their placement in a balustrade, but are typically sized to match handrail heights of 34”-38” (86.4-96.5 cm).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of Single Ring Baluster viewed from the side
A Single Ring Baluster is a stairway support featuring a single circular element at the center, typically paired with vertical bars in balustrades. Crafted from materials like wood or metal, it offers structural stability while introducing a unique aesthetic.

Single Ring Balusters have an overall width of 4” (10.2 cm), depth of .5” (1.3 cm), and ring placement at 16” (40.6 cm) from the handrail. Lengths of balusters vary depending on their placement in a balustrade, but are typically sized to match handrail heights of 34”-38” (86.4-96.5 cm).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of Single Ring Baluster viewed from the side
Baluster - Ring, Single
Height:
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
Width:
4” | 10.2 cm
Length:
Depth:
.5” | 1.3 cm
Weight:
Area:

Top Height: 16” | 40.6 cm

Materials
Wood or steel

Drawings include:

Single Ring Baluster elevation, plan, front

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Baluster - Rectangle
Style and size comparison drawing of Rectangle Baluster compared to other baluster types

A Rectangle Baluster is a type of stairway support, characterized by a single top and bottom bar linked by a central rectangle. Crafted from materials such as wood or metal, it offers structural stability and unique visual appeal. The central rectangle lends geometric intrigue, breaking the linearity and offering a modern edge to the minimalist design. The result is a baluster that combines contemporary aesthetics with functional simplicity, perfectly suited to various architectural and interior design styles.

Rectangle Balusters have an overall width of 4” (10.2 cm), depth of .5” (1.3 cm), and rectangle placement at 8” (20.3 cm) from the handrail. Lengths of balusters vary depending on their placement in a balustrade, but are typically sized to match handrail heights of 34”-38” (86.4-96.5 cm).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of Rectangle Baluster viewed from the side
A Rectangle Baluster is a type of stairway support, characterized by a single top and bottom bar linked by a central rectangle. Crafted from materials such as wood or metal, it offers structural stability and unique visual appeal. The central rectangle lends geometric intrigue.

Rectangle Balusters have an overall width of 4” (10.2 cm), depth of .5” (1.3 cm), and rectangle placement at 8” (20.3 cm) from the handrail. Lengths of balusters vary depending on their placement in a balustrade, but are typically sized to match handrail heights of 34”-38” (86.4-96.5 cm).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of Rectangle Baluster viewed from the side
Baluster - Rectangle
Height:
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
Width:
4” | 10.2 cm
Length:
Depth:
.5” | 1.3 cm
Weight:
Area:

Top Height: 8” | 20.3 cm

Materials
Wood or steel

Drawings include:

Rectangle Baluster elevation, plan, front

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Baluster - Square
Style and size comparison drawing of Square Baluster compared to other baluster types

A Square Baluster is a type of stairway support with a square cross-section profile, available in various sizes and materials like wood or steel. It ensures structural stability while presenting a minimalist, geometric aesthetic. Its simplistic square profile breaks away from traditional rounded forms, introducing a modern and clean design element. This style of baluster is a fusion of functional simplicity and contemporary aesthetics, ideal for those seeking a balanced, versatile look in both traditional and modern architectural settings.

Square Balusters are commonly available with overall widths and depths of .5”-1.75” (1.3-4.4 cm). Lengths of balusters vary depending on their placement in a balustrade, but are typically sized to match handrail heights of 34”-38” (86.4-96.5 cm).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of Square Baluster viewed from the side
A Square Baluster is a type of stairway support with a square cross-section profile, available in various sizes and materials like wood or steel. It ensures structural stability while presenting a minimalist, geometric aesthetic. Its simplistic square profile is modern.

Square Balusters are commonly available with overall widths and depths of .5”-1.75” (1.3-4.4 cm). Lengths of balusters vary depending on their placement in a balustrade, but are typically sized to match handrail heights of 34”-38” (86.4-96.5 cm).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of Square Baluster viewed from the side
Baluster - Square
Height:
34”-38” | 86.4-96.5 cm (Handrail)
Width:
.5”-1.75” | 1.3-4.4 cm
Length:
Depth:
.5”-1.75” | 1.3-4.4 cm
Weight:
Area:
Materials
Wood or steel

Drawings include:

Square Baluster elevation, plan, front

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads