How do I Install Pre-Fabricated Stair Rail & Bannister?
Stair railings, banisters and posts can easily become a source of frustration for both amateur and professional carpenters alike when mistakes and problems occur between the design and construction stages. These complications can be avoided by using sets of finished and installation-ready parts, commonly known as prefabricated kits. The availability and diversity of designs, sizes and complexity in prefabricated kits makes many regard them as more than just a quicker or cheaper alternative. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Prefabricated kit
- Hammer
- 1.5-inch nails
- Finishing nails
- T-bevel
- Leveler
- Power drill
- Tape measure
- Joint glue
- 1/2-by-3/4-by-30-inch wooden bracers
Instructions
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Organize the prefabricated kit, ensuring all parts listed in the manufacturer's guide are included and free of defects and damages. Refer to the kit or building code guidelines to determine spacing and positioning of the banisters and posts. Use the tape measure and pencil to mark the center where each banister and post dowel will be installed. Misalignment between banisters or posts can fail to provide railings with adequate support or stability.
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Use the markings on the landings as a template for the power drill, equipped with a boring bit, to cut holes the same depth and width as the dowels. Insert the banisters to ensure a tight fit, checking for alignment with the T-bevel and leveler. Remove the banisters and attach two wooden bracers, using the hammer and two 1/2-inch nails on each banister, in order to create a tripod. Ensure care is taken to prevent damage caused by nails that are driven too deeply.
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Cover the banister dowel with joint glue and insert it into the first drill hole. Check the banister with the leveler in all directions and adjust the positioning as needed. Attach the wooden braces with the hammer and 1/2-inch nails to the staircase to provide support. Repeat this process until all banisters are properly installed in ascending order. Periodically use the leveler to identify alignment issues requiring correction while the glue dries. Remove the wooden bracers with the claw end of the hammer.
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Refer to and follow the instruction manual or guide provided with the kit to install any posts. Installation methods of posts vary in design and may require the use of custom tools only available in kits from specific manufacturers. Place sections of railing on the tops of the banisters, starting from one end of the staircase, and applying any glue while following any special instructions in the manufacturer's guide. Ensure the ends of two sections being joined are as close as possible to prevent gaps within the railing before fastening the railing to the banisters and posts.
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Tips & Warnings
Kits can sometimes be custom-ordered depending on the manufacturer, or they can be adjusted and reconfigured by a skilled carpenter.
Wear safety equipment and gear, such as safety glasses, when doing home renovations or when working around power tools.
Check the building code of your area for any requirements or minimum standards to which staircase railings must adhere.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit wood stairs image by MLProject from Fotolia.com
