Stair Remodel Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s

• Measure before you order. Count your balusters with our baluster spacing guide, or send us your measurements and photos for a free quote and we’ll build the parts list for you.
• Order a few extra balusters. A bad cut or a measuring mistake happens on almost every job. A couple of spares is cheaper than a second shipment and a stalled project.
• Order everything at once, well before the job. One order means one shipment and one extended length fee, if you have long items. Ordering early leaves time to fix anything that arrives damaged.
• Check your finish in person. Screens don’t show color exactly. If you’re matching other metal in the house, order one baluster as a sample first. See our finish photos.
• Check your local code. Most codes require that a 4″ sphere can’t pass between balusters, and they set handrail heights. Your local inspector has the final say.
• Read the install guide before you start. Knowing the steps ahead of time saves mistakes, like forgetting to put the shoes on before the balusters go in. Start with how to install iron balusters.
• Get help with design if you need it. Try different looks in our stair design tool, browse the photo gallery, or call us. We’ll help you pick a style.

Don’ts

• Don’t mix vendors. Different companies use the same style and finish names, but the parts won’t match. A “Satin Black” or a “single twist” from one company can look different from another’s. Buy every part from one place.
• Don’t mix sizes or bar styles. Keep balusters in the same family, with the same size, finish and bar style (smooth, hammered or round), so the railing looks like one design.
• Don’t cut every baluster to one length. The distance from tread to handrail changes along the stairs. Measure each spot and cut each baluster 3/4″ longer than its opening.
• Don’t drill square to the handrail. Drill every hole plumb, straight up and down, or your balusters will lean. See how to drill holes for iron balusters.
• Don’t skimp on newel mounting. A newel that’s only screwed or glued down will wobble. Lag-bolt it into solid framing. See how to install a wood newel post.
• Don’t order last minute. If something gets lost or damaged in shipping, you need time for a replacement before your installer shows up.
• Don’t buy from a drop shipper. If a store can’t tell you whose parts they sell or where they ship from, they can’t fix a problem fast. Here’s why that matters.