LJSmithInstallation | Page 41

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IMPORTANT : Please read instructions thoroughly before beginning .

The following steps will provide an accurate and attractive job :

1 . Construct the bending forms as shown in illustration # 1 below , one for each tread .

2 . Measure the total width of the bending rail , including the bending mould , then divide the total width in half to find the centerline of the rail . Mark the centerline of the rail on the bending forms . Cover the treads under the bending area to catch glue drippings . Attach the bending forms to the stair treads , aligning the rail centerline marks over the baluster centerline . Keep the front edge of the bending form flush with the nose of the tread . See illustration # 2 . Follow a similar procedure around the edge of a curved balcony .

6 "

ILLUSTRATION # 1 Bending Form

Preparing & Bending Rail

1 . Cover the inside of the bending mould with wax paper or plastic wrap . This will keep the glue from sticking to the mould . When using L . J . Smith LJ-6910BM ENDURO- MOULD this step is eliminated .

2 . When a rail is required to be longer than 16 ', two shorter rails will be spliced together . This splice is made by making a butt joint with each layer of the rail . A 12 " long strip of filament tape ( or Scotch Wood Joiners No . 0 ) across each butt joint will hold the pieces together during bending . The joints should be staggered about 24 " to prevent a buldge in the rail and provide strength at the joint . See illustration # 3 .

3 . Using a paint roller , put a thin even coat of glue on all contact surfaces of the bending rail . L . J . Smith recommends Franklin Titebond 50 or an equal substitute .

Staggered Butt Joints

ILLUSTRATION # 3

2 " x 6 "

8 "

2 " x 6 "

24 "

Baluster Centerline

ILLUSTRATION # 2 Top View

ILLUSTRATION # 4

Filament Tape

Bending Form