Fitting a half newel post is the perfect way to finish off your staircase, keep everything safe and secure, and pull together the overall look of the staircase. Half newel posts are designed to allow you to attach balustrades to the wall of the landing, adding strength and support.
In this guide, we explain when you may need to fit a half newel post, the different types of wood and designs to choose from and how to fit a half newel post.
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Find out when a half newel post is necessary for your staircase.
Read about the types of wood available and the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Find out what the different design options are for half newel posts.
Read more about half newel caps and the different options of designs and woods available.
Read our tips on caring for half newel posts and the recommended products for keeping your half newel posts in good condition.
We provide guidance on fitting a half newel post securely.
We answer frequently asked questions on buying half newel posts.
Why might I need to install a half newel post?
Newel posts help to provide strength and structure to your staircase, keeping balustrades in place and supporting the handrail. If space is an issue, a half newel offers a good alternative, as they sit flush against the wall - these are simply the full post sliced neatly in half. Half newel posts come in an array of different options, with a range of different types of wood, finishes and styles to choose from.To help you make your decision, we have put together the ultimate guide to choosing your new newel, as well as the best options for fitting and caring for your new construction.
What types of wood can I choose from?
Half newel posts come in a range of designs, finishes and wood choices, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Ash
Ash is a popular option, which is easy to stain and polish, allowing you to create the perfect finish depending on your interior. Ash also has a reputation for being tough and strong, ensuring a durable and long-lasting half newel to last for years to come. One thing you may want to bear in mind is that ash is less water-resistant than other types of wood, such as oak.
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Ash Barley Twist Newel Post Half (made to order)
- The 90mm barley twist newel post half has a 50mm diameter peg, which will fit into a half 90mm newel base. A 90mm half newel cap is required for the top of the newel post.
- The plain turned newel post half is designed to be fastened onto a wall. A half newel base is also required.
- Newel Post Size: 730mm x 90mm x 60mm
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Dark Hardwood
With a close, textured timber, dark hardwood is the ideal option if you are looking to varnish or polish your staircase. It also tends to offer quite a dramatic finish, making it perfect if you are looking to create a statement staircase. On the downside, it can show up scratches more easily, making it quite a high-maintenance choice.
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Dark Hardwood Plain Newel Post Half 82mm
- The 82mm plain turned newel post half has a 50mm diameter peg, which will fit into a half 82mm newel base. A 82mm half newel cap is required for the top of the newel post.
- Dark Hardwood stair parts come unfinished. They can be finished by varnishing or waxing.
- Newel Post Size: 730mm x 82mm x 60mm
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Oak
Oak has a reputation for durability and longevity, as well as offering a distinctive, stylish finish; the visible grain is perfect for creating that rustic vibe. Oak is a hardwood, which means it’s extremely tough and resistant to dents and scratches. It is a great option for adding warmth and character to your staircase. However, due to its durability and high quality, it tends to be more expensive than other options.
Oak Barley Twist Half Newel Post
- The 90mm barley twist newel post half has a 50mm diameter peg, which will fit into a half 90mm newel base. A 90mm half newel cap is required for the top of the newel post.
- The plain turned newel post half is designed to be fastened onto a wall. A half newel base is also required.
- Oak stair parts come unfinished and can be finished by painting, varnishing or waxing.
- The length of the newel post, is a fixed length. This measurement does not include the peg.
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Pine
Pine is a popular choice; it is affordable, versatile, and can be painted or stained to suit any interior. One potential issue is in the soft nature of the wood; this can make pine more susceptible to scratches and marks.
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Pine 70mm Stop Chamfered Newel Post Half
- The 70mm half complete newel, is a complete piece of timber incorporating the newel base and newel post to form one full length newel post.
- A 70mm half newel cap is required for the top of this newel post.
- The 70mm complete newel post half is designed to be fastened onto a wall.
- 70mm complete newel posts are perfect for small tight spaces, such as a small landing or loft conversion.
- Pine stair parts come unfinished. They can be finished by painting, varnishing or waxing.
- Newel Post Size: 1500mm x 70mm x 35mm.
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You can read more about choosing stop chamfered newel posts here.
White Primed Wood
The base for white primed wood tends to be birch or poplar; both offer a smooth, knot-free finish perfect for working with. There can sometimes be discrepancies between batches, so they may need additional treatments to get a uniform look.
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White Primed Plain Turned Newel Post Half 90mm
- The 90mm plain turned newel post half has a 50mm diameter peg, which will fit into a half 90mm newel base. A 90mm half newel cap is required for the top of the newel post.
- The plain turned newel post half is designed to be fastened onto a wall. A half newel base is also required.
- This item has been primed on a hardwood base such as tulip wood or poplar. We advise that a solvent based topcoat is used with our White Primed products.
- Newel Post Size: 740mm x 90mm x 45mm.
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Hemlock
Hemlock provides a classic feel and is perfect for traditional staircases. As it is less brittle than most other softwoods, it is more durable than many hardwoods and can also be painted without issue.
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Hemlock Fluted Newel Post Half - Made to Order
- The 90mm fluted newel post half has a 50mm diameter peg, which will fit into a half 90mm newel base. A 90mm half newel cap is required for the top of the newel post.
- The fluted newel post half is designed to be fastened onto a wall. A half newel base is also required.
- Newel Post Size: 730mm x 90mm x 60mm
- PLEASE NOTE MADE TO ORDER
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Walnut
Walnut Plain (Square) Newel Post 1.5mtr Half
- The 90mm plain square newel post half, is a complete piece of timber incorporating the newel base and newel post to form one full length newel post.
- The 90mm plain square newel post half is designed to be fastened onto a wall.
- Spindles in the plain square style are available in 32 and 41mm.
- Newel Post Size: 1500mm x 90mm x 45mm.
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What are the different half newel post designs?
Half newel posts come in a rich array of different designs and finishes to perfectly suit your home; these include fluted, barley twist and half twists, or a simple plain turned or square option. The range of designs allows you to choose your tone; opt for casual elegance, bold, stunning decadence, or a minimalist finish.
You can read more about choosing a newel post style on our Newel Post Styles advice page.
What is a half newel post cap?
Half newel post caps are the perfect finish to your construction and are fitted directly on top of the post, once it is attached directly to the wall.Caps come in a variety of different woods, including ash, dark hardwood, white primed, pine, and combinations of these for a distinctive finish. Homeowners can also opt for their dream design; be that a smooth acorn cap for a classic look, or a simple ball cap. A pyramid cap can be used to add a touch of glamour, or opt for a traditional shape to fit a classic stair.
Caring for half newel posts
Keeping your posts looking great doesn't have to be hard; you just need the right tools on hand. Much of this will depend on the type of woods you choose; different materials will have their own requirements and suggestions to keep them their best. By investing in the right oils, treatments and glosses, you can make sure that your post stays strong and sturdy, and looks as good as the day you installed it.
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Treatex Clear Hardwax Oil, Clear Matt 0.5L
- Just two coats of our Clear Hardwax Oil will protect and enhance wooden surfaces.
- Apply two coats with a brush or roller. One coat of Treatex Hardwax Oil Natural can be applied underneath Treatex Hardwax Oil Clear Satin.
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How to fit a half newel post
Half newel posts are fitted directly to the wall using a combination of screws and adhesives. Remember, a half newel post is not merely decorative; it also performs a crucial function in securing the balustrade firmly in place. Start with the base, followed by the post, and topped off with the cap of your choice.
You can find out more about fitting a half newel post here.
Frequently asked questions – buying half newel posts
What types and parts of newel posts are available?
There are two main types of newel posts: whole, and half, as well as three main sections: a newel base, the post itself and the cap - the latter can come in a variety of designs and finishes.
What fixings and accessories will I need for newel posts?
To fit a newel post, you will need adhesives and screws to attach the post to the wall, as well as any treatments to maintain the quality of the wood.
How do you attach a half newel to a solid wall?
Attach a half newel to a solid wall using adhesives and screws to attach the post firmly to the wall at one end, with the balustrade attached to the other.
What is the purpose of a half newel post?
A half newel post not only helps to pull together the overall aesthetic of your staircase, it also holds the balustrade firmly in place and adds strength to the staircase.
How do you strengthen a half newel post?
Inserting dowels throughout the post and rails can help to add a little extra strength to your half newel post.
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