How Do You Remove Spindles?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Are you looking for a simple project with big impact? Replacing wood stair balusters with metal balusters is the project for you. It’s pretty simple, requires

minimal tools

, and makes a bigger difference than you’d expect.

How hard is it to change spindles on a staircase?

Are you looking for a simple project with big impact? Replacing wood stair balusters with metal balusters is the project for you. It’s pretty simple, requires

minimal tools

, and makes a bigger difference than you’d expect.

How do you remove spindles from a banister UK?

The easiest way to do this is to

place a block of wood next to the base of the spindle and hit the block with a hammer or rubber mallet

. This will loosen the spindle from the nails holding it in place, making it easier to remove.

How do you remove spindles from Victorian stairs?

Lay a thin hand saw blade on the tread of the stair so that its teeth are where the bottom of the spindle and the top of the tread meet. A little wooden dowel pin connects the two together.

Move the saw back and forth to slide under the spindle and cut the dowel pin

. Repeat this process for each spindle.

Can you change spindles on staircase?

If you have a damaged staircase or a few spindles that have split or cracked, or you just don’t like the way it looks, you

can change

that.

How do you remove old spindles?

The easiest way to do this is to

place a block of wood next to the base of the spindle and hit the block with a hammer or rubber mallet

. This will loosen the spindle from the nails holding it in place, making it easier to remove.

How much does it cost to replace wood spindles with iron?

Replacing spindles in your railing falls

between $260 and $2,000

. That includes $130 to $1,600 per spindle, and $130 to $400 for labor.

How do you take apart a stair railing?

Many modern railings have a small hole underneath to access the nut holding the bolt in the newel post in place inside the railing. Place a thin box wrench into the hole and turn the nut counterclockwise to loosen it.

Remove the nut

. Repeat anywhere the stair railing meets a newel post.

How do you refinish a stair railing?

  1. Step #1 Protect the Area Around the Stair Railing.
  2. Step #2 Apply Liquid Deglosser.
  3. Step #3 Choosing a Stain.
  4. Step #4 Applying a Gel Stain.
  5. Step #5 Apply a Stain Sealer.

What is the difference between balusters and spindles?

A baluster and spindle is actually

almost the same thing

, but the word spindle is more commonly used because it is easier to remember and say. Balusters usually rest on a footing; this could be a step, floor or deck, whereas, spindles are supported by a horizontal rail at the bottom that is attached to the posts.

How much does it cost to replace stair spindles?

Replacing balusters (also called spindles) typically costs anywhere from

$1,200 to $1,600

. Putting in a handrail will likely cost anywhere from $700 to $2,500.

Can you glue stair spindles?

The

Epoxy Glue

is used by professionals to secure stair iron balusters into place. It dries hard and creates an immovable baluster once dried. Approximately working time is 15 minutes.

How do I remove Bannister?

Check under the banister where it joins onto the newel posts. If you see bolts,

use a socket and ratchet to remove them

. If you see screws, unscrew them with the drill/driver and remove them to release the banister. Set the banister aside with the wall brackets still attached.

How do you fix a broken spindle?


Apply wood glue

to each hole and to the surface of the dowel. Line up the jagged edges of the spindle, push the dowel into one end and squeeze the other spindle piece on. Clamp the pieces together and wipe off any squeezed-out glue with a damp rag. Set the spindle aside to dry for 24 hours.

How do you tighten a bannister?

  1. Secure the newel posts — the upright posts located at either end of the banister and on landings. …
  2. Replace joinery on the rail. …
  3. Reattach wall brackets, if present; add them to help steady rails. …
  4. Tighten rail bolts that attach the rails to the newel posts. …
  5. Glue or replace balusters.
David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.