The hole in the handrail will need to be at least 1-1/2″ up into the bottom of the handrail. Drill the bottom hole to a depth of approximately 5/8″ to 3/4″. Many of the powder coated metal balusters have the top of the baluster turned round which will may allow you to use a smaller diameter drill bit for the top hole.
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How do you drill a hole in a iron balusters handrail?
Drill holes using 5/8″ drill bit a minimum of 3/4″ deep into handrail. Mark baluster placement on treads allowing for equal spacing while following your original design. Drill holes* using 5/8″ drill bit a minimum of 3/4″ deep into stair treads. Make sure to keep the depths consistent.
How do you cut round balusters?
Using a Portaband saw or a chop saw with a metal cutting blades are the best methods to cut your wrought iron balusters. Most balusters can be cut from only the bottom and installed fine, however if you want your pattern to line up at a specific height it is best to cut from top and bottom.
How do you install square iron balusters without shoes?
Square Hole using a Hollow Mortise – This is a time consuming method where you drill a round hole, take a square hollow mortise, and hammer out the square. Then you come back with a chisel and knock out the leftover wood. You can now install a square baluster with no shoe and have a nice finished look.
What is the spacing for balusters?
Balusters are the vertical guards that support the handrail. They must be installed close enough that the space between them is less than 4 inches. Most city inspectors carry a 4-inch ball with them to test the spacing. Installed balusters should withstand 50 pounds of pressure exerted over a 1-sq.
How do you drill an exact angle?
Use the angles on the edge to guide your drilling.
- Set the speed square right next to the hole you’re drilling. Line up the drill so the top is along the flat side of the speed square.
- Line up the angle markings on the hypotenuse with the center line down the top of the drill. Drill down into the wood at that angle.
