Which component of the balustrade is attached to the starter step?

The newel is the component of the balustrade that is attached to the starter step. It serves as a primary support structure for the handrail and balusters, anchoring the entire system and providing stability to the staircase. The newel post is typically positioned at the beginning and end of a staircase or at landings, ensuring that the balustrade is securely fastened and can withstand the forces applied during usage.

A baluster is a vertical post that supports the handrail, but it does not attach directly to the starter step; rather, it connects between the handrail and the tread. The handrail itself is the component that users grasp while ascending or descending stairs, but without the sturdy foundation provided by the newel, the handrail would lack the necessary support. The stringer, on the other hand, is the structural element that supports the treads and risers of the staircase but does not directly connect to the balustrade components.

Understanding the function of the newel post in relation to the starter step is crucial for ensuring the overall safety and stability of stair designs in carpentry.