I’ve always lived in multi-story homes but never paid much attention to their staircases. One staircase in particular was grand—but I never took a close look. Now that we’ve moved, I regret not noticing something special: many staircases include a single upside-down baluster.
Not a Carpenter’s Mistake
If you’ve ever spotted an upside-down baluster on a staircase, you might have assumed it was a builder’s error. Surprisingly, this is rarely the case. Builders and carpenters often install one baluster upside down on purpose.
Tradition and Superstition Behind the Baluster
Two popular beliefs explain this practice:
Imperfection Reminder: Builders believe that “only God’s creatures are perfect,” so leaving one baluster upside down acknowledges that man-made things have flaws.
Protection from Evil: Some think the inverted baluster prevents the devil from creeping up the stairs to claim someone nearing death.
Both explanations send a slight shiver down my spine!
A Missed Opportunity to Look Closer
Our current home has a narrow staircase with walls on both sides—no balusters at all. That’s why I wish I could return to my old house and check if its staircase had that mysterious upside-down baluster.
Final Thoughts
Next time you pass a staircase, take a closer look. That single upside-down baluster might carry centuries of meaning and superstition. It’s more than just a quirky detail—it’s a subtle nod to tradition and belief.