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Chrome is a versatile metal to use for stair accessories thanks to its ability to fit in with both modern and traditional staircase styles. Chrome end caps are designed to be used on wall-mounted handrails to add extra detailing. They work particularly well with pine and oak handrails as the muted tone complements these pale shades of wood.
In this guide, we discuss the benefits of choosing chrome end caps, go over some of the designs available, and provide you with the information you need to choose the perfect handrail end cap to match your staircase.
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Read the benefits of opting for chrome end caps.
Read your design options of chrome handrail end caps.
Find out how to combine chrome with wood.
Read our guide to choosing end caps, taking into account style, price, and handrail types.
Find out how chrome compares to other metals when it comes to choosing end caps.
Read our guide to caring for chrome end caps.
The highly polished, refined finish of chrome gives it a very contemporary look, which can elevate a staircase and give it a luxurious vibe. The sleek metal reflects the light and can help to brighten up a stairway, and this effect can be particularly useful in narrow or dark areas.
Although we often associate chrome with modernity, chrome end caps are incredibly versatile and can be used with both traditional and contemporary staircases. They also go well alongside various options of woods, since they are neutral in colour.
Chrome is also a versatile metal in terms of manufacturing. It can be manipulated into a wide range of different styles, from simple and elegant plain designs to elaborate filigree. The latter offers a traditional look, whereas the former is perfect for modern homes. Ultimately, all chrome end caps and staircase accessories offer a chic and refined style thanks to their mirrored finish.
Our octagonal chrome end caps offer a subtle amount of intricate detailing while maintaining an incredibly modern edge. They give off an art deco style, and yet their simplicity makes them timeless.
For an incredibly contemporary look, consider our HR profile end caps, which are compatible only with our HR handrail. The unique curve-edged design provides an ultra-modern feel. This style fits in well with modern properties.
Our filigree chrome end caps are the very opposite. These delicate caps add some intricate detailing to a handrail and can truly elevate a simple mopstick handrail to make it look more luxurious.
We have two varieties of plain round chrome end caps available. The medium variety are 25mm deep, while the slim variety are just 13mm deep. If you're looking to add a very subtle amount of chrome highlight to your staircase, the latter is a brilliant choice.
Finally, we have Fusion chrome end caps available designed to be used with our contemporary Fusion stair part range which offers an elegant, minimal look. For example, this handrail end cap offers a sleek, curved claw design.
Chrome is neutral in tone and therefore works well with any type of wood, no matter if it is pale or dark, cool or warm. However, we find that it looks particularly good alongside pale woods such as oak and pine.
If you're looking for a dramatic staircase, consider choosing a very dark wood like walnut. The contrast between the deep brown wood and the reflective high shine of chrome makes for an eye-catching finish.
Shop our full range of stair parts to find the perfect choice of wood for you.
A major decision to make when choosing chrome end caps is the style you're looking to achieve. Busier and more ornate end caps such as the filigree design have a very traditional look. Meanwhile, the likes of our HR profile end caps and our Fusion end caps are the epitome of modern styling and are ideal for contemporary properties. For something in the middle, the octagonal chrome end cap is a brilliant choice because it blends simplicity and detail for a timeless look.
Generally speaking, the larger a chrome end cap is, the more expensive it will be. However, the complexity of design also plays a role in the price. For example, our slim chrome end caps are the cheapest in our range, while our HR profile end cap is one of the most expensive options due to its curved design.
You must take into account the type of handrail you have in order to choose a compatible end cap. Mopstick end caps can only be used with mopstick handrails, also known as rounded handrails. Our HR chrome end cap can only be used with the HR handrail and is designed to fit the unique curved profile of this rail perfectly.
Visit our handrail advice centre for more tips on choosing a type of handrail.
When choosing your chrome end caps, you'll want to consider the other stair accessories to go with your handrail. It's likely that you'll want to choose coordinating accessories such as a pack of chrome brackets for mopstick handrails. We also have a variety of Fusion chrome brackets and connectors designed to be used with our Fusion range.
You might also want to consider using wall patrices. These are circular disks that act as a base on the wall upon which to attach the handrail brackets. Although not essential, patrices can provide the bracket with extra support and give some additional detailing to make the hallway look even smarter. You can buy wall patrices in the same wood as your handrail to ensure they match.
Brass and brushed nickel are common alternatives to chrome if you want to consider other types of metal end caps. Brass is warm in tone and has a very traditional and expensive feel. There's also antique brass to consider, which has a brushed, aged finish and offers a vintage look. Brushed nickel offers a similar contemporary feel as chrome, but the key difference is its brushed, matt finish, which makes it a more subtle option than reflective chrome.
Chrome, like other metals, is a durable material that requires little maintenance, which makes it an excellent long-term investment. However, its mirror-like finish means that it smudges and picks up fingerprints easily.
Chrome can be dusted with a dry microfibre cloth, but for deeper cleaning, you should avoid very strong, harsh cleaners. Use warm water to dilute your cleaning solution and use a soft cloth. You might choose to dry off and buff the end caps with a dry cloth to avoid watermarks and maintain a high shine.
Shop our full range of chrome handrail end caps here.
You can also check out our high quality chrome handrail brackets alongside chrome handrail end caps to help transform your staircase.
