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The questions we're asked most often - about sizing, UK building regulations, fitting and finishes. Can't find your answer? Just get in touch.
Choosing & Sizing
How many spindles do I need for my staircase?+
Most staircases need roughly one spindle per 100mm of handrail length, minus one - a 3,200mm handrail needs around 31 spindles. Use our free spindle calculator for an instant answer, or read the full measuring guide for the step-by-step method, including landings.
What size are Forxa's spindles?+
Our Q-Series spindles are 1/2 inch (12mm) square and our A-Series spindles are 9/16 inch (14mm) square or round. All are 44 inches (1118mm) in standard length, hollow or solid depending on the design - see the full product range.
What's the difference between a baluster and a spindle?+
Nothing - the terms are used interchangeably in the UK. A spindle (or baluster) is the vertical post running between the handrail and the string or floor. A baserail sits beneath them, and a newel post is the larger post at the top and bottom of a flight.
Metal vs wood spindles - which is better?+
It depends on durability, maintenance and style. Metal generally resists wear better and allows for finer decorative detail; wood is warmer and easier to match to existing joinery. See our full comparison guide for a detailed breakdown, and our finish guide for matching a finish to your interior.
Building Regulations & Safety
What is the maximum gap allowed between stair spindles in the UK?+
Under Approved Document K, a 100mm sphere must not be able to pass through the gap between spindles - in practice a maximum clear gap of 99mm. This applies to any domestic staircase where the drop is more than 600mm. Full detail in our UK Building Regulations guide.
Does the 100mm spacing rule apply to landings and angled staircases?+
Yes. The maximum 99mm gap applies equally to landings, straight flights and raked (angled) staircases - the pitch of the stair does not relax the rule.
What handrail height is required by UK building regulations?+
Minimum 900mm from the pitch line on a staircase, 900mm from the floor on a landing, and 1,100mm in commercial or public buildings. Many homeowners choose to go higher, particularly with young children in the home.
Fitting & Installation
Can I fit metal spindles onto my existing wooden staircase?+
Yes - this is one of the most common projects we supply for. Our retro-fitting guide walks through measuring, marking, cutting and fitting metal spindles into base and handrail brackets on an existing staircase, start to finish.
Can spindles be cut to length?+
Yes. Most installations involve cutting spindles to the exact rise required for your staircase - a standard part of fitting, covered step by step in our retro-fitting guide.
Do I need a professional to fit spindles, or can I do it myself?+
Many customers fit Forxa spindles themselves for like-for-like replacements, using our retro-fitting guide. For structural changes, listed buildings, or if you're at all unsure, we recommend a qualified joiner - balustrades are a safety-critical part of your staircase.
Are Forxa spindles suitable for landings and balconies as well as stairs?+
Yes. The same spindle ranges are used for galleried landings and balustraded balconies - just measure and calculate each run separately using our spindle calculator.
Ordering & Trade
Do you supply trade and bulk orders?+
Yes. We supply homeowners, joiners, builders, developers and interior designers alike. See our How to Order page for delivery, payment and the full process, or email us your requirements directly.
Why doesn't Forxa publish prices online?+
To keep prices competitive, our costs move with demand, availability and stock levels rather than being fixed. Request a free catalogue for an up-to-date quote - browse the full product range in the meantime.
Can I order a smaller quantity than shown, or in a different colour?+
Yes, for some designs. Our Q-119 to Q-130 range is produced in smaller batches and marked "Smaller Quantities Available" on the product listing. Other designs are produced in batch runs for cost efficiency and are best suited to larger orders - get in touch, as we sometimes have spare stock from a recent run. Satin Black is always available in any quantity; our other 9 finishes are custom powder-coated to order and best suited to larger projects - contact us and we'll confirm what's achievable.
Still have a question?
Email sales@forxa.co.uk, call 07882 789779, or WhatsApp us directly - we read every message ourselves.