Looking to freshen up the look of your home? From deck railings to indoor staircases, switching your wooden balusters out for metal ones is actually a fairly simple way to add a modern touch to your house. We give you a step-by-step guide on how to install these new metal balusters into your railing.
4 Steps For Installing Metal Balusters
- Cut out the old balusters
If this is a remodel, rather than a new installation, you will need to remove the existing wooden balusters. Using a reciprocating saw or a jig saw, cut the balusters in half. Then gently wiggle the balusters back and forth until the nails holding them in place loosen and you are able to pull the baluster free without damaging the handrail or flooring.
If any nails are left behind, simply use pliers to free them.
- Drill holes
You may be able to skip this step if you already have holes from your wooden balusters. Some wooden balusters are simply applied with a dowel pin and glue, so in such a case, drilling is necessary.
The materials you are using will dictate the exact drilling measurements, but you will need to go roughly 1 to 1.5 inches deep into the handrail and ¼ to ½ inches into the flooring.
- Cut the new balusters
One of the appealing elements of metal balusters is that you can choose a pattern to add visual interest to your staircase. From simple twists to intricate designs, balusters are an easy way to add some personality to your home.
These patterns need to be considered when cutting your balusters. Depending on where you want your pattern to line up, you may need to only cut from the top or bottom, or you may need to cut from both ends of the baluster.
- Insert the balusters
If you are using shoes, now is the time to do so. Base shoes can allow for a more finished look, as they can help cover the holes left behind from the potentially larger wooden balusters. Simply slide the base shoes over the metal baluster before slipping the balusters into the holes. Take the time to ensure that your pattern is lined up how you like it. Then, use some epoxy to cement the base shoes to the flooring.
And that’s it! You’ll be enjoying your new railing in no time! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to a professional railing company; they will be more than happy to offer assistance.
McLean Railings has been providing railings for residential properties in Calgary since 1993. Recognized for our attention to detail and high-quality materials, we can offer all homeowners and home builders the chance to get secure, durable, and reliable railings for their properties. As experts in railing installs, we can work on every structure imaginable. Plus, we can help you with everything you need. We provide outdoor railings, exterior railings, and aluminum stair railings. For top-quality railings in Calgary, call McLean Railings today on 403-995-0361
