Choosing brushed nickel end caps | Options of designs & what to consider
If you’re looking to buy handrail end caps for your staircase, you may be curious about the benefits of certain materials. One of the most popular is brushed nickel.
Not only is this material aesthetically pleasing and available in a wide range of design options but it also comes with a number of advantages to use. Commonly used for simple, modern styling, nickel is the first choice of many people with a variety of tastes because it provides a classy, uncomplicated look.
In this article, we consider the different design options and how they impact price, as well as what to consider when purchasing nickel handrail end caps. We also answer common queries on choosing handrail end caps, and tips on matching an end cap to a staircase design.
Click on a link to jump to each section:
Read the benefits of choosing brushed nickel handrail end caps.
Read the different brushed nickel end cap designs available.
Find out what types of wood go best alongside brushed nickel.
Read our full guide to choosing brushed nickel handrail end caps.
Why choose brushed nickel handrail end caps?
To consider the benefits of brushed nickel as handrail end caps, it’s vital to consider first the advantages of brushed nickel itself. First, it is extremely durable, meaning that end caps of this material tend to have long lifespans and low maintenance.
Second, brushed nickel is capable of holding its finish far longer than chrome alternatives. It doesn’t show fingerprints or dirt like other materials and you’ll find it incredibly easy to clean.
Furthermore, brushed nickel is an inexpensive and affordable option. Exposed to a complex finishing process, brushed nickel is manufactured from edging the surface of nickel with a metal brush. This gives it a high-end appearance that complements other warm hues of timber well. In comparison to gloss, nickel creates a look that is warm and earthy.
Are you looking for a brushed nickel end cap for your staircase? View our large selection here.
What are the different designs available for brushed nickel handrail end caps?
There is a wide range of design options when it comes to brushed nickel handrail end caps available, and you are also able to choose between more decorative options for a slightly more traditional, busy feel. However, simpler or smaller options may be ideal for a sleek, modern design.
At Jackson Woodturners, we offer large range of design types for brushed nickel handrail end caps:
Octagonal end caps
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Brushed Nickel Octagonal End Cap - Pair 54mm Diameter
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These end caps are part of the accessories range of modern and contemporary stair parts.
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The nickel octagonal end caps are designed to fit onto a 54mm diameter handrail.
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These end caps are 38mm deep.
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Matching wall bracket also available.
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Sold as a pair.
HR profile end caps
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Brushed Nickel HR Profile Handrail End Cap - Pair
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These handrail end caps are designed to fit onto the HR profile handrail only.
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The end caps are 24mm deep - they are attached to the end of the HR handrail with two screws on the underside of the end cap. A small amount of glue can also be used on the end of the HR handrail. Screws are provided with the end caps.
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Brushed Nickel is a matt/ brushed finish.
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These end caps are sold as a pair.
Filigree end caps
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Brushed nickel filigree end cap – 43mm deep - pair
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These end caps are part of the accessories range of modern and contemporary stair parts.
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The brushed nickel filigree end caps are designed to fit onto a 54mm diameter handrail.
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These end caps are 43mm deep.
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Sold as a pair.
Slim and medium end caps
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Nickel Medium End Caps - Pair 54mm Diameter
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These end caps are part of the accessories range of modern and contemporary stair parts.
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The brushed nickel medium end caps are designed to fit onto a 54mm diameter handrail.
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These end caps are 25mm deep.
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Sold as a pair.
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Nickel Slim End Caps - Pair 54mm Diameter
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These end caps are part of the accessories range of modern and contemporary stair parts.
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The brushed nickel slim end caps are designed to fit onto a 54mm diameter handrail.
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These end caps are 13mm deep.
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Sold as a pair.
Fusion end caps
We offer Fusion end caps, which are available in two styles.
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Fusion Handrail End Cap 54mm Diameter - Brushed Nickel
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This connector is part of the Fusion range of modern and contemporary stair parts.
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The brushed nickel handrail end cap, is a decorative metal end cap that will fit on the end of a 54mm diameter mopstick handrail.
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The Fusion range of brushed nickel products, come with a matt finish.
What type of wood is best to combine with brushed nickel handrail end caps?
Brushed nickel is a very versatile material and can be paired with a variety of woods. However, we tend to recommend that it looks best alongside warm hues of timber – such as oak and walnut.
Alongside woods, nickel complements warm tones very well. The combination is ideal for a contemporary/rustic fusion of tradition, giving your property a Nordic feel that is both modern and cosy.
Choosing brushed nickel handrail end caps
You can use the Jackson Woodturners advice centre to find the perfect match in brushed nickel end caps for your handrail design and style.
Style
The main style options for end caps are traditional and contemporary.
For a more traditional option, you should consider slim end caps (13 mm deep, simple tops), medium end caps (25 mm deep, simple tops), and filigree end caps (43 mm deep, featuring ornamental metalwork to add decadence to your staircase handrail). This effect leans into that stunning contrast between brushed nickel and warm wood.
However, if you are looking for something more contemporary to bring your staircase up to date then Jackson Woodturners also stocks bold modern shapes and flawless nickel finishes. An octagonal design (eight-sided, 38 mm deep) offers a unique geometric design that will prove timeless.
Furthermore, there is the HR profile style, designed for sleekness and efficiency.
Price
This depends on the design you opt for – busier designs tend to be pricier than more simple, minimalistic options.
Of course, this will vary between manufacturers and retailers. From Jackson Woodturners, you can always expect a reasonable and affordable price for expert quality.
Your handrail type
The right end cap for you depends on the type of handrail you have. For example, you will need a mopstick nickel cap for a mopstick handrail or a HR end cap for a HR handrail.
HR handrails can also sometimes be used as handrails on a wall, and are recognisable because their shape looks like a slice of bread. Because of their shape, these handrails require a HR profile end cap.
Alternatively, you can also choose mopstick handrails, which are round in shape and are usually secured to the wall with brackets. The ideal end caps for these are any round-shaped end caps, such as the traditional ones we discussed above.
How does brushed nickel compare to other materials of handrail end caps?
Jackson Woodturners also manufactures end caps in antique brass, chrome, and metal (as black and white). Brushed nickel is not as glossy or shiny as the other materials - however, it does hold up better in hiding fingerprints and dirt.
It is also not generally any more expensive than other materials but is often more versatile in its aesthetic match with handrail colours.
To view your full range of options, shop our complete range of nickel end caps here.
Caring for your brushed nickel handrail end caps
Metal is a very tough and durable material, ideal for long-term investments in your home. We recommend using a dusting cloth or microfibre cloth to keep your brushed nickel end caps clean. Avoid strong products that could damage the metal and, if necessary, use only diluted solutions.
Jackson Woodturners is a premium manufacturer specialising in bespoke woodturning and home to the largest range of traditional and contemporary stair parts in the UK. We are a family-run business in our fourth generation, established for over 100 years.
For more information about our brushed nickel handrail end caps, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our dedicated customer service team today. You can browse through our wide range of high-quality, luxury brushed nickel handrail end caps to find the perfect one for you and your home.