The regulations for spindle spacing.
The gap between each spindle can be no more than 100mm, commonly known as the "baby's head" rule. We recommend a maximum gap of 90mm.
Working out spindles for rakes
The rake is the balustrade going up the side of the stairs.
- Measure the going of each step (see Ref 1 below).
- Count the number of steps between the newel posts, excluding any feature steps that will not have a balustrade.
- Multiply the going by the number of steps.
- Divide that figure by 90 plus the spindle thickness.
- Round the final figure up.
Worked example
Using our Metal Bar Spindle, if your staircase has a going of 220mm and 11 steps between your posts, that equals 2420mm.
Dividing 2420mm by 102 (90 plus the width of the spindle) = 23.72. Always round up, so the total needed would be 24.
Working out spindles on a landing
Measure the base rail length and follow the same division. For example, if the base rail is 1240mm: 1240 / 102 = 12.1, rounded up to 13.
Tip: if you do not want a 90mm spacing, change the formula to suit. For example, for an 80mm spacing: 1240 / 92 (80 plus the width of the spindle) = 13.48, which rounds up to 14.
Please note these calculations are a guide only. It is your responsibility to input the correct measurements and ensure your staircase meets regulations.