Handrails and balusters play important safety roles on any staircase or elevated structure, but they have more than functional value; they also have aesthetic worth. Railings assist in getting up and down a staircase, and they can prevent people from falling when they lose their footing; balusters or railing spindles will keep a child from falling through -- but that doesn't mean they can't be decorative as well. Spindles or balusters are the supports that connect the handrail to the staircase. Wrought-iron spindles make a secure barrier at the side of the stairs while also providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Drill holes in the bottom of the rail or staircase treads with a 5/8-inch bit and into the floor rail underneath it. The bottom holes require a maximum depth of 11/16 inch, while the upper holes should be at least an inch and a half into the rail for maximum support. Adjacent holes should usually be only 4 inches apart from each other, both on the top and the bottom . Stair treads usually have three iron spindles each, and balconies use three per foot of railing.
2. Measure the height of the rail with a tape measure and cut the spindle as needed so it fits. Use a metal-cutting band saw and cut from the bottom of the spindle. Wear safety goggles and gloves to help prevent risk of injury.
3. Test the spindle length by sliding the top of the spindle into the top hole and then dropping the bottom into the bottom hole to ensure the iron spindle fits appropriately. Adjust the holes or the spindle length as needed with your drill and band saw.
4. Slide a baluster shoe on the bottom of the spindle for a more professional look prior to attaching it to the rail. The spindle goes right through the hole in the shoe and then the shoe sits on the floor or the bottom rail until it gets glued.
5. Wrap masking tape around the top section of the spindle below the section attaching to the top rail to protect it from epoxy glue exposure.
6. Glue the top of the spindle with epoxy and slide it into the top hole of the rail. Drop the bottom of the spindle into its hole and add epoxy into the hole to secure the iron. Wipe away any excess glue with a rag before it dries, and remove the tape.
7. Lift up the baluster shoe and apply epoxy to the underside of it. Press it down into the floor or bottom rail and wipe away any excess with the rag. Insert the securing screw into the side of the shoe to attach it to the spindle itself once the glue dries.
Tags: into hole, bottom rail, bottom spindle, attaching rail, away excess, baluster shoe