ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Newel

Okay kiddo, let me tell you all about newels! Have you ever gone up or down the stairs in your house? Have you noticed the big post-like thing at the bottom and top of the stairs? That's called a newel!

Newels are important because they help support the handrail on the stairs and keep it from wobbling or moving around too much. They also make the stairs look pretty because they come in lots of different shapes and sizes.

There are two main types of newels: starting newels and landing newels. Starting newels are at the bottom of the stairs and are usually bigger and more decorative than the landing newels. Landing newels are at the top of the stairs and are usually simpler in design.

Newels are usually made out of wood, but they can also be made out of other materials like metal or stone. Some people even get fancy and add decorations or carvings to their newels to make them even more special.

So that's it, my little friend! Newels are just big, strong posts that hold up the handrail on your stairs and make your staircase look nice.