I need to replace a newel post at the bottom of a handrail. The existing post is sitting on top of a concrete step that I want to keep. what is a good way to attach a new post to this con crete step in such a way that it will remain stable. I none of the bolt down simpson products that I have seen/used will keep the post from wobbling alot. I was thinking of epoxying in a 7/8 allthread and drilling the post out about 2 feet and slipping it over the allthread, I feel that this would keep it sturdy, but may be difficult to drill the hole just right. Does anyone have any better ideas? I also thought about doing a steel post with a large baseplate that I could bolt down, but that’s a bit more work to fabricate.
brian
Replies
You jave the right idea with epoxied allthread--but put it through a hollow post (could be made of four butt-jointed and glued 1x's) with a square "cap" at the top with a hole the allthread goes through and tightens with washer and nut. Then finish with a finial.
Or if you want to keep your post, cut it in half, do the interior work then glue it back together. You could route an opening all the way up the post. If you have, or have access to a bandsaw that would be best.
If you had another point of attachment at the location it would help a lot. What if you clip the rail short a bit and attach the newel to a recessed plate, and to the next rise? Just drop a baluster if you have to.
-zen