Everything you need to know about newel caps

Looking to turn your staircase into an appealing centrepiece? Rather than replacing your balustrade (the vertical structure that runs alongside your staircase), simply changing your newel caps with new ones can give an instant new look.

Stair Crazy are experts in stair part manufacturing – in this blog, they explain the ins and outs of newel caps and how to install them correctly.

What is a newel cap?

A newel cap is a decorative stair part that sits on top of the newel post – the supportive pillar of your staircase.

Newel caps don’t have a practical purpose, instead, they’re an ornamental feature that helps spruce up your stairs.

By replacing your old newel caps you can refresh the look of an outdated staircase, without replacing the entire structure.

What newel cap styles are available?

There are numerous newel cap designs – from simple and understated to more flamboyant features. Which you choose will be entirely based on your personal choice.

Flat newel caps

Flat newel caps have a smooth flat design parallel to the floor. This type of cap most suits modern contemporary homes with squared newel posts. Flat newel caps offer a clean finish to your balustrade.

Pyramid newel caps

Like flat newel caps, pyramid designs look best on modern, squared balustrades. Pyramid caps have a square base with triangular surfaces meeting in the centre, providing flare to a contemporary home.

Ball/acorn newel caps

Also known as a round newel cap, this cap consists of a rounded base with a solid sphere or acorn shape above. Typically, ball newel caps have a peg that slots seamlessly into your newel post.

Round newel caps are the ideal finishing touch to classic balustrades in traditional-look homes.

Newel cap materials

Another consideration is the material of your newel cap – each material offers a different feel to your décor.

Oak –

Wooden newel caps offer a timeless feel to any home, especially ageless oak. Not only is its trademark tiger stripe grain visually appealing, but oak is highly durable and lasts for many years.

Oak is a fantastic choice as it’s versatile and looks the part in contemporary and old-style homes.

Pine – 

Another wooden newel post option is pine, an affordable alternative to oak. Pine is incredibly easy to paint, which is perfect if you’d prefer to move away from a wood finish – popular shades include white to brighten your staircase and make it stand out.

Chrome – 

Chrome newel caps are an increasingly popular choice due to their durability and contrast with wooden balustrades. Chrome offers a shiny metallic finish that exudes class in chic home aesthetics.

Nickel

Nickel is another type of metal newel cap that’s sturdy and trendy. Unlike chrome, nickel has a matte finish that’s just as stylish as its metallic counterpart.

How to attach a newel cap to your newel post

How you fit your newel cap will differ depending on the type of cap.

For flat or pyramid caps that cover the entire top of your newel post, you can glue it in place using wood glue. Ensure the glue doesn’t drip down the side of the post, and firmly insert the cap – you can hold it in place using masking tape whilst it dries.

Ball/acorn newel caps usually have a peg to slot into your newel post – simply drill a hole into the post top that matches the diameter of the peg. If needed, you can apply some wood glue for extra support.

Refresh your staircase with stair parts from a reputable supplier

Upgrading the look of your staircase is simple and affordable with the addition of a new newel cap.

To ensure you’re buying a quality stair part that will stand the test of time and continue looking incredible, be sure to purchase from a trusted supplier.

Reputable stair part retailers should be easy to contact and be on hand to answer any questions you may have regarding their products.