Balusters have been used in homes for thousands of years. In fact, they’ve been found in homes and also dated to approximately 6000 BC.
Are YOUR balusters that old lookin’? LOL (Call us!)
Well back In those days, stairs were created from tree trunks. It was not until the late 1400’s that we have proof of the more common use of balusters in architecture rather than chair legs and candle sticks. Giuliano da Sangallo is commonly credited with popularizing that kind of railing system around then. It had not been until the beginning of the 20th century that a Czech designer started experimenting with glass, metal balusters like iron and stainless steel, and various other modern materials to produce structures with a modern day feel.
Most conventional staircases feature balusters – wooden, glass, aluminum, iron and metal spindles that run vertically from the handrail to the stair, sidewalk, or whatever.
It can be a daunting prospect to repair or replace damaged balusters, mostly because of the poor accessibility of the top and bottom of the spindle. Below is the best way to do it.
Note that balusters vary depending on the type of staircase.
- Balusters on cut string staircases fit into mortises or slots inside the ends of the treads.
- On a closed string staircase, they rest in a groove inside the string capping and have short lengths of timber set between them as spacers. Their top ends are either skew-nailed to the handrail or set in a groove in its underside.
To Replace a Wooden Baluster
Replacing a missing or broken wooden baluster usually means having to dismantle the balustrade. Even so, it is achievable to replace the odd one by splicing a new baluster into two at an angle in a convenient position, then fitting new top and bottom pieces into the rail and string and then carefully remarrying the two halves with glue and countersunk screws.
Preparing to Fix Balusters
In the event you need to replace quite a few balusters, The Railing Factory makes identical ones before completely dismantling the stair railing. Square-section balusters are uncomplicated to match but turned balusters may well need to be specially made. Replacing fancier balusters can be on the expensive side.
Re-Fitting Loose Balusters
If the balusters on a cut-string staircase have worked loose, drive modest glue-soaked timber wedges into any gaps inside the tread mortise. Then, to secure them entirely, drive in two nails or fine screws at an angle to lock the end of the baluster to the tread.
With closed-string flights, skew nail the baluster to the string with either sort, then do the same at the point where the baluster meets the handrail. Finish off by concealing the repair using wood filler.
Contact The Railing Factory for Balusters
Decorative railings can add a lot to property, whether it’s safety or aesthetics. This is why many people like iron balusters since they are both appealing, functional, and structurally strong. You should get to know a little about this decorative option before you decide whether to take advantage of the benefits of this product. Metal balusters are often installed in areas that would benefit from strong railings, in both indoor and outdoor settings.
If you want to increase the safety of your stairs, deck or porch by adding a railing with wood, vinyl or metal balusters, contact The Railing Factory. We will make spindles that are surprisingly durable so that you can rely on their lasting strength.
We’ll fit you with whatever you can imagine, in any setting: Home, office, store, restaurant, factory, amusement park… doesn’t matter. We are the place to come. Hope to see or hear from you soon.