Stair railing/baluster construction
I’m getting ready to tackle a split level entry stair railing project. I’m looking for advice on the different ways to attach the newel posts. all thread, long timber screws, “dowel screws”…..The newel posts with be made of 4 sections with full length splines instead of being solid. I’m comfortable i can make them very stout based on other work i’ve done.
I plan on attaching the balusters with “dowel screws” directly into the hardwood/plywood subfloor.
One section of railing will be “flying” without a perpendicular wall or section to resist the lateral forces on one end (~8′ worth).
I added 2x material under the subfloor where the newel posts will go prior to resheeting.
Sorry for the length of this post; i should just post it short and let the questions follow
Replies
for the flying rail I like to have the newels with the dowel that will go down through the floor to attach to structure below.
Hadn't thought about a dowel, seems like it would work well if it was tight and ran up the inside of the newel far enough
you can buy the newels with the dowel (large dia) already built in. Much stronger than any angles bolted on at the floor that are covered by trim. If the ceiling below is already finished it's well worth the effort to tear into it so you can do the doweled newel.
See if you can pick up a copy of Coffmans Stair Building Guide. It covers all the basics including the attachment of newel posts.
Go to the yard where you plan to pick your parts from and get the L.J. SMith or Kaufmann book and see what it says.
lots of options but I prefer Screws to attach to a stair riser/stringer and staggered rail bolts to attach to a floor.
If you want I'll go into detail
I will pick up a copy of Kaufmans book, pics are always good. I believe i've got a good handle on the riser/stringer and baluster attachments. I'm just looking for a bomber method for the newel post that doesn't have much lateral support from any other railings. I'm pretty sure going in from underneath is a key aspect and tieing into the 2x backing as well as the subfloor and actual flooring.
thanks to all for the info and references. Matt
staggered rail bolts to attach to a floor.If you want I'll go into detailHi robert-I'd like to hear you go into detail on this one. Because many times it is solid under the newel, I use a 1/2" suretite- 10" long with 5" of lag screw that goes into the 2 x 10 and a 5" machine bolt that the newel gets screwed down with through a 1-1/2" hole in the side. I use pl premium under the newel when I've got the newel plumbed...but I want to try a 2 bolt system...silver