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Stair rods are small metal bars that have been placed at the back of each step in a flight of stairs. They have been used since the 1800s in residential homes and business offices as a practical tool and a decorative style statement.
The Purpose of Stair Rods
The practical purpose of stair rods is to hold the stairway’s carpet runner snugly against the back of each step so that it does not come loose and cause someone to trip. Early stair runners were not glued or affixed to the steps in any fashion, so they had a tendency to come loose and bunch up. The stair rods were affixed to the bottom of the stair rails so that they would not budge, which kept the carpeting stretched nicely along the length of the stairs. Once rubber backing and modern carpet tacks became more commonly used for carpet runners, stair rods were not necessary for holding the carpet in place any longer. They continue to be used, however, for their decorative style.
Different Types of Stair Rods
Stair rods come in several different types of sizes and styles. The most utilitarian stair rods had a brushed nickel finish and were small, simple bars. More ornate stair rods could be used for special buildings or homes. They could have gold finishes and be larger so that they made more of an impact in the overall design of the stairwell. Some stair rods were painted to match the stair railing or to add a new design element with the color of the carpeting.
How Stair Rods are Installed
Stair rods can be installed in several different ways. Some stair rods are connected to metal plates that run along the edges of the stairs from top to bottom. Other stair rods are placed in small holes that are drilled into each side of the stairwell. There are also configurations that have separate, smaller metal plates that are placed against the stairwell sides so that the stair rods can be screwed into them. Whatever the design, stair rods need to be firmly affixed to something on either end so that they will not move when the stairs are in use.
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What is the origin of raining stair rods?
This is a colloquial North of England expression. Stair-rods are the metal rods that hold stair-carpets in place on each step. The allusion is to rain which is so heavy as to appear like falling stair-rods.
How to Choose the Best Stair Rods?
If you are in the process of designing your home, then you have probably spent a lot of time making sure that you have the most elegant home in the neighborhood. If you have a home with more than one story, then one aspect of your home that you need to pay special attention to is your stairs. Stairs are an oft-used fixture of your home, so it is important to spend a bit more time thinking about how to make them look great. Perhaps the best way to make your stairs look their best is with a series of carpet runners and stair rods. Typically, you should probably pick out your stair runners first. Once this has been accomplished, you can then begin thinking about which stair rods you would like to use to best emphasize your stairs and your stair runners. Traditionally, stair rods were an absolutely essential feature of stairs. Unless you wanted your stair runner to flop around and become bunched up, you needed a great set of stair rods. Nowadays, carpet installation techniques have become extremely excellent, so stair runners can usually stay in place regardless of whether you have stair rods installed to hold it in place. The good news about this is that you no longer need to be concerned with the functionality of your stair rods. Instead, you can focus solely on the decorative aspects of them. The most common colors for stair rods are gold, silver, or black. The color that you choose will probably depend upon many factors, including your stairs, your stair runners, and the other decorative elements of your stairwell. You may want to bring a sample of each color into your home to make sure that a particular color will look great. There is nothing worse than choosing the wrong color for your stair rods. You could become the laughingstock off the neighborhood. A couple other elements to pay attention to are the brackets that you use and the end caps of the the stair rods. You will also want to make sure that these elements nicely compliment both your stair rods and the rest of your stairwell decor.
Choosing The Right Stair Rods?
Stair rods make a beautiful addition to any staircase, but choosing the right look and material is important. Stair rods are usually installed over a carpet runner, not only to add a decorative look, but also to keep the stair runner pinned down. When installed properly, stair rods with smaller brackets will actually aid in safety by keeping the stair runner from coming loose. The cheapest option in stair rods is the plated rod. These rods are made of a very inexpensive metal substance and coated with brass or a silver finish. When properly cared for, they will last several years, but over time these finish begins to wear off and the copper finish will gain a tarnished look to it. For areas that will receive heavier traffic, these types of rods are not optimal. Rods that are made of stainless steel are the longest-lasting and least expensive rods on the market. More expensive rods made of pewter or finer substances may be purchased, but are very expensive and meant only for luxury decor. Depending on the size of the stair and normal traffic, there are a two different choices for brackets. The brackets are placed on either side and attach to the bottom corner of the stair where it adjoins the step to the lower step. Stairs that have heavy traffic should receive a flat bracket. Some brackets, even if they are flat, may have sharp or abrasive edges. In households where small children are present, the brackets should be sanded down. Flat brackets help avoid trip and fall accidents, making them a vital necessity for family homes. For staircases that are mostly intended for decoration and do not see high amounts of traffic, larger brackets may be installed. Although not practical, large brackets have elaborate decorations that add to the eye-catching appeal of a decorated rod. Finials are another stair rod option that must be decided upon. These are the decorative knobs placed on the end of the stair rod. Flat finials with a rounded edge are the best choice for family dwellings, while decorative, curled or more sharp finials are chosen for a home meant for entertaining.
How to Shop for and Buy the Right Stair Rods for Your Home?
Stair rods are used as decorative items in homes to enhance the look of a stairway. They used to be used to hold stair way runners in place. Improved carpeting techniques have eliminated this functional need for stair rods. But they are still a beautiful accessory that you can place inside your home. There are a few things to consider, however, before you purchase stair rods in relation to their size and their appearance. Here are steps you can take to find the right stair rods for your home.Find out what size and dimension of stair rods you would like to place on your stairway. You are apt to have a lot of versatility in this area. Many stair rods measure between 28 inches to nearly 50 inches. All of this depends on the dimensions of your stairs, so be sure you measure them before you shop for stair rods so you have an idea of what sizes to focus on.Determine how you want your stair rods finished. You are likely to have many choices in this area too. Stair rods can come finished in polished brass, satin nickel, brushed brass, antique brass, oil-rubbed bronze, wrought iron, or pewter. It“s completely up to you and your individual taste, but try to choose something that goes with the decor of the immediate area. If, for example, you have a brass lamp in the same room, brass stair rods might be the best choice.Determine the size and look of your finial. The finial is the end point of the stair rod, and it can take on a variety of shapes. You can choose finials that have a rounded tip, an urn-shaped tip, a pyramidal tip, or a tip that takes on the shape of a pineapple. What you decide ultimately depends on the length of stair rod you are looking for, plus the finish you are selecting.Determine whether you would like your stair rods custom-made. If you don’t find what you are looking for in this accessory, you always have the option of asking that your stair rods be custom-made to your specifications. Most manufacturers would be happy to take your requests. You may have to pay more in this situation, however, so be prepared.
Do they make decorative curtain rods?
Yes, there are thousands of style of decorative curtain rods on the market and the choices are virtually unlimited.
What are some stylish and practical ways to incorporate towel rods into a bathroom design?
Some stylish and practical ways to incorporate towel rods into a bathroom design include installing multiple rods at different heights for a layered look, using decorative hooks instead of traditional rods for a unique touch, and choosing sleek, modern rod designs that complement the overall aesthetic of the bathroom.
Can you buy interchangable decorative ends?
Yes you can. Once again the varities of curtain rods are endless and they even have some rods that have interchangeable decorative ends.
Where can one purchase stair carpet rods?
Stair carpet rods can be purchased at most home renovation and supply stores. Popular stores that carry these are Home Depot, Rona, Home Hardware and Lowes.
How to Install a Stair Runner Using Decorative Stair Rods?
With the current economic situation, more and more people are looking to spruce up their homes for less and less money. One of the easiest, most cost effective and most popular ways home owners are revitalizing their tired decor is with stair runners, complete with decorative stair rods. Installing a stair runner adds a taste of elegance to any home for very little money. To install a stair runner and decorative stair rods, you will need a square, a tape measure, a utility knife, a staple gun and staples, a carpet stretcher, a pencil and a straight edge. 1.) Remove all old carpet and carpet pad from the steps. Thoroughly clean the stairs. 2.) Measure the width of the stairs. 3.) Measure the width of your runner. 4.) Calculate the difference in width and divide it by 2. For example, if your stairs measure 32 and your runner measures 28, the difference is 4. Half of 4 is 2. 5.) Using your measuring tape, pencil and square, mark the stairs 2 from the wall on either side. You will be using this as a guide to install your stair runner. 6.) Cut pieces of carpet pad 1 shorter than your stair’s depth and 2 shorter than your runner’s width. 7.) Using your straight edge, pencil and tape measure, mark the stairs 1 from the crotch, towards the nose. Using your square, mark 1 toward the center on either side from your previous 2 markers. 8.) Using the guides placed in step 7, lay your carpet pad. 9.) Lay your stair runner on top of the pad, using your pencil lines as a guide. 10.) Starting at the bottom step, use your staple gun to secure the runner to the nose of the stair. 11.) Use your carpet stretcher to stretch the carpet up to the next step. 12.) Secure with staples in the crotch of the stair, making sure that the carpet is flat. 13.) Repeat this process for all stairs. 14.) When the stairs have been carpeted, you are ready to install your stair rods. 15.) Install your stair rods using the hardware provided to you by the stair rod manufacturer. Installation kits usually include two anchors for either side of the stair rod. After you have installed your stair runner using decorative stair rods, your home will have a classic, timeless look to it that will never go out of style. You will have the satisfaction of knowing that you made your home look like a million bucks for very little money.
Where can one purchase brass stair rods?
One can purchase brass stair rods at many local stores including Lowe's and Home Depot. One can also purchase them online at eBay, Amazon, Signature Hardware, and other online stores.
What is the practical purpose of a stair railing?
The practical purpose of stair railings is to ensure that people can walk up and down stairs safely. Stair railings ensure that a person cannot fall off the side of a set of steps and also aids their balance when travelling up and down.
What are the best types of bedroom curtain rods to use for hanging curtains in a bedroom?
The best types of bedroom curtain rods to use for hanging curtains in a bedroom are typically adjustable rods, tension rods, or decorative rods. Adjustable rods allow for customization to fit different window sizes, tension rods are easy to install without drilling holes, and decorative rods add a stylish touch to the room. Choose a rod that complements the style and weight of your curtains for optimal functionality and aesthetics.
