I want to fasten a newel post at the head of my loft stairs. Half inch plywood underlayment, inch and half plank subfloor, over a 4×10 beam. Thus no access from below. Design and alignment problem will not allow half-notching to beam. I have studied the various proprietary bolting systems with no good evidence for what would work best. I am thinking about trying to set four long screws with the Kreg pocket hole jig, but I have never used one of these. Any thoughts will be appreciated.
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Newel Fastening
From Coffman Stairs (google that) go to accessories.
They have an "L" bracket which does what you are suggesting only you fasten the bracket to the side of your post, then the bracket down to the floor (and beyond)
They also have a flat steel plate with a bunch of holes-you screw the plate to the bottom of the post, then the perimeter of the predrilled plate to the floor/tread/and beyond.
I have used both and they make a good connection. They use to sell a kit that had 2 pcs of enlarged and shaped "shoe" molding to go around either the bracket of the plate.
Take a look, you can probably cobble something together after viewing the parts.
Also, offered is a 10 inch "rail bolt". Lag screw one end, threaded w/nut for the other end.
Edit: You ask for an opinion. I think the kreg fastening w/ long screws would work now pretty good, but if you register the jig near the bottom of the post it would make for a connection that could fail over time. There's not much meat down there. Pull up the jig and the angle goes towards the middle of the post-not sure that would work over time either. I would use the "rail bolt" over that if you had enough good stuff below the center of the post.
If just the 1-1/2 plank, I would go for the steel plate or L-bracket. Good connection of plate to post and good connection from bracket/plate to plank. Could I suppose go under that plank and nut, washer and plug if that's your celing finish below.
newel post fasteners
Sounds like you're putting the newel on top of the 4x10. That newel bolt fastener cal mentioned is the ticket. You'll need to drill a 1 1/2" hole to access the bolt, and make a plug. One of those racheting box wrenchs is also very helpful.
If you need a plug, I've got a cutter, so I could send you one.
I think the best solution is to drive a double-ended bolt (don't recall the name -- one end lag screw, the other machine screw) into the beam, set the post down on the bolt through a drilled hole, then install a washer and nut through an access hole cut in the side of the post. There are "systems" that contain all the parts/tools to accomplish this technique.
Done this a bunch of times
The LJ Smith bolt kit is nice. I prefer to use standard rail bolts at opposite corners. It's a little more work but gives a greater degree of adjustability.
Basically I put two rail bolts into the floor at opposite corners of the post. Drill the corresponding holes in the post. Drop it over them, using plenty of glue, Tighten the bolts and plug the holes.