How to Weld Pickets to Spiral Staircase Stairs

Welding metal isn't an easy task for a beginner, but everyone has to start somewhere. Welding pickets to a spiral staircase is a good starting point for even the most amateur of welders. Just follow these simple steps to create a new spiral staircase in no time.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Step
• Pickets
• Level
• Welder

1. Lay out your step, right side up. The outside of the step is the widest side, which should face towards you.

2. Mark out where your pickets are going to go. Divide the number of pickets you need to put on each stair by the size of your stair, and put that many inches between each picket.

3. Make sure your step is level by laying a level on it at different points. Then, set the pickets on each marked spot. Place the level on the edge of each picket to see that they're straight.

4. Use your welder to tack the picket onto the step. Check again to make sure the picket remains level. This is important because all your pickets must be the same length for your welding to hold and your stairs to be level.

5. Finish welding each picket onto your stair.

6. Repeat Steps 1 through 5 until all the pickets are welded to the steps.

Tips & Warnings

• Only weld your pickets to your step in a well-ventilated workplace.
• Always wear the appropriate fire-resistant clothing when welding.
• Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby when you're welding.