®
Iron Collection Installation Instructions
IMPORTANT : Please read instructions thoroughly before beginning .
KEY for Drilling Handrail & Treads to Install Iron Balusters
Step 1 — Drill The Handrail and Treads :
|
Handrail |
Tread |
Baluster Size |
Hole Size |
Hole Size |
1 / 2 " Square |
9 / 16 " |
11 / 16 " |
1 / 2 " Round |
9 / 16 " |
11 / 16 " |
9 / 16 " Square |
9 / 16 " |
3 / 4 " |
5 / 8 " Round |
11 / 16 " |
11 / 16 " |
3 / 4 " Square |
11 / 16 " |
1 " |
( refer to Key above )
The following instructions are designed to be used for the installation of our Iron Line Collection . Before proceeding with the following steps , the handrail height should already be determined , the baluster locations should already be marked on the handrail , treads and balcony , and the newel posts should already be installed . If using our IronPro Iron Baluster Fasteners , utilize our IronPro Installation Instructions . If using our Base Collar with Threaded Disc , refer to those instructions . If using our iron newel posts , our LI-3760 Newel Mounting Kit and instructions should be utilized for a secure installation .
1 . Refer to the Key above and drill a hole 1 " deep on the bottom of the handrail at each pre-marked baluster location ( Photo 1a ). Our LI-40144 / 40244 / 41144 balusters require a 11 / 16 " diameter hole since they do not have a top round pin . Note : Our LI-40840 balusters include hardware for mounting to the handrail , therefore , holes are not needed in the handrail for these balusters .
Photo 1a Photo 1b
2 . Refer to the Key above and drill a hole 3 / 4 " deep on each tread at each marked baluster location . ( Photo 1b )
Alternate method : A stronger method is to place a 2x4 " block beneath the tread . Drill the hole 2 " deep through the tread and partially through the block to accept the baluster ( Illustration 1 ). This method will change the takeoff by requiring the addition of about 2 " to the normal required baluster length .
Illustration 1
Block
Iron Baluster Tread
Step 2 — Trim The Balusters :
1 . Temporarily attach the handrail to the newel posts in order to determine the required length for each baluster .
2 . At each baluster location , measure the length between the tread and the lower side of the respective drilled hole in the handrail ( Photo 2a ). Add 1 " to the measurement for insertion into the handrail and 3 / 4 " to the measurement for insertion into the tread ( If using the alternate tread drilling method in Step 1 , add 2 " to the measurement for insertion into the tread ). Transfer the measurements to each respective baluster . Remove the handrail from the newels .
Photo 2a
3 . Trim each baluster from the bottom using a metal cutting chop saw with a 14 " abrasive blade or a portable band saw . ( Photo 2b ). Be sure to seclude your work area as hot sparks from a metal cutting chop saw can damage nearby windows , flooring , walls , etc .....
Photo 2b
Step 3 — Drill The Balusters :
1 . It is recommended that every 6th baluster be screwed to the tread and handrail , for a more secure stairway . Determine which balusters will be installed with screws for # 2 below . ( We recommend 1 1 / 2 " trim screws )
2 . For rake balusters , drill a hole perpendicular through the top pin on each baluster to accept a trim screw . For balcony balusters , drill the hole at an angle to accept a trim screw . ( Photos 3a ) Drill a second hole at an angle through the bottom of the balusters to accept a trim screw .
Balcony Rake Balusters Balusters
Photos 3a
3 . Countersink each hole to accept the screw head . ( Photo 3b )
Photo 3b