Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Install Stair Railings & Spindles

The installation of stair spindles and a hand railing provides a very important safety feature. Holding onto the railing while using the staircase prevents slips and falls, while spindles, in the unfortunate event of a slip or fall, protect you from falling to the ground. The installation of new spindles and a hand railing can also update your staircase to a new look or style. Installing a hand railing and spindles takes some hard work and concentration; follow a few steps for a safe and updated staircase. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions


1. Choose the design of stair spindles and stair railing you would like, using the same building material as the actual staircase. For example, if you have a wood staircase, choose wood spindles and hand railing.


2. Apply wood glue to the bottom of the spindle, which will meet with the stair tread. Place the spindle on the stair, and wipe away any excessive glue. If using metal spindles, use epoxy instead of wood glue. Allow the spindles to set and dry for 24 hours before installing the hand railing; in the meantime, prep the railing for installation.


3. Cut the new stair railing, using a saw, to the correct length of your staircase. If you ordered your railing to fit using precise measurements, you will not need to cut it.


4. Use a pencil or marker to mark the underside of the stair railing, where it should match up with each spindle. This step gives you the exact spot to drill for the spindle.


5. Measure the circumference of the top of the spindle; look for the measurement printed right on the top of the spindle. Using a hand drill and corresponding drill bit to the measurement, drill about a 1/2- inch hole into the hand railing.


6. Apply wood glue to the top of the wood spindles where the spindle will meet the hand railing. Apply a small amount of glue into the newly drilled hole as well.


7. Place the hand railing in place on the spindle, and wipe away any excess glue that may ooze out. Start at the top of the staircase, and work your way down. Use vice grips to hold the hand railing in place as you continue to set the railing on the spindles, which will prevent the hand railing from slipping off the spindles.


8. Install the hand railing in place on the newel post at the bottom of the staircase, and the wall fitting at the top of the staircase. Drill wood screws on the underside of the hand railing into the newel post and wall fitting.


9. Wait 24 to 48 hours before applying any pressure to the hand railing to ensure the glue has dried and set into place.







Tags: hand railing, hand railing Apply, hand railing place, railing Apply, railing place