Balusters not only complete the look of a staircase, but they also help protect small people and animals from falling off the stairs. Spacing balusters is important not only to pass an inspection but because balusters set too far apart won't function properly and could pose a secondary safety issue. However, spacing balusters correctly is easy to do. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Measure the staircase length between each rail post in inches, and write down the measurement. You may need someone to help hold the tape measure in place or take several measurements if your staircase turns.
2. Determine the local building code requirements for spacing balusters by calling your local building department or looking for the standards online. An industry standard is 4 inches, but your area may have different requirements so double-check to ensure accurate placement.
3. Refer to the balusters you've chosen and write down the width of the balusters in inches.
4. Add one baluster width to the staircase length.
5. Add the baluster width and the space between each baluster together. Then divide this number into the staircase length (plus the additional baluster length). For example, a 2-inch wide baluster with a required space of 4-inches and a 192-inch long staircase: 2 inches + 4 inches = 6 inches; 192 inches + 2 inches = 194 inches; 194 inches/6 inches = 32.33.
6. Round the second number from Step 5 down to the nearest whole number. This is the number of balusters you'll need for the project and, for this example, you will need 32 balusters.
7. Multiply the number of balusters you need by the baluster width, and then subtract this number from the staircase length plus one baluster width. For example, 32 x 2 = 64; 194 - 64 = 130.
8. Use the final sum of 130 from Step 7 and divide the number of balusters you determined you'll need plus one more baluster. For this example, 130 / 32 (+1 baluster) = 3.93 inches between each baluster. If you feel 3.93 inches is too close, you can add another baluster.
9. Start at the midpoint of the staircase run and install your first baluster. For an even number of balusters, you'll be off the midpoint by the space amount. Working out from the center, install each subsequent baluster the distance as determined in Step 8.
Tags: inches inches, inches inches inches, baluster width, number balusters, staircase length
