Installation Guide

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Our standard 44" length balusters will accommodate most
situations. (Some straight plain-bar balusters, however, are
available only in 47" lengths and are designed to be cut to
the proper length.)
Our special 47" length balusters are available in several
different designs. A 47" length baluster is normally used
with a gooseneck turning. If your staircase includes a
gooseneck and has three balusters per tread, then a 47"
baluster may be required.
Cut all balusters from the bottom. This ensures proper
alignment of the design elements.
Balusters are offered in both square and round shapes and
may be installed with or without shoes. Each requires that
the appropriately-shaped hole be cut in the tread and
handrail. One way to cut the square hole is by drilling a
round hole in the wood the same size as the baluster’s
overall width. Then, chisel out the hole to make it square
(see Fig. 17-7).
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FIG. 17-7 - Chiseling a square hole from a round hole
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B.10c – Installing Forged Iron
Here’s your chance to be creative. Our forged iron stairways
may be designed to your preference. Feel free to “mix and
match” balusters that appeal to you. Almost any
combination is acceptable. Our graceful “belly balusters” are
specially designed for balconies. They are a great way to
make your stairway unique! Forged iron newels may be used
in Over-the-Post installations. Consider combining wood
with forged iron balusters, they make a beautiful stairway.
See Fig. 17-6 for some creative suggestions.
Many building codes require three balusters on a tread.
Check with your local code officials if you have any doubts
about compliance.
Because these balusters are handcrafted, they may vary
slightly in size. Please check each baluster and newel before
you drill the hole for it.
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FIG. 17-6 - Forged iron creative samples