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8 MARK THE BALUSTER CENTERPOINTS 9 MARK THE BALUSTER CENTERPOINTS
From the baluster spacing required by code see step 3 , determine the number of balusters required per tread . The first baluster of each tread should be 1 / 2 baluster square back from the face of the riser . Divide the run by the required number of balusters per tread to find the center-to-center distance for the other balusters . For example , if the run is 10 " and the maximum spacing required by code is 4 "; 10 divided by 4 equals 2-1 / 2 spaces required per tread . Round this up to 3 spaces . Thus , 3 balusters per tread are required . 10 " run divided by 3 balusters equals 3.333 " ( 3-11 / 32 ") center-to-center .
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1 / 2 Run 1 / 2 Baluster Square
Face of Riser
1 / 3 Run 1 / 2 Baluster Square
Face of Riser
Run
Run
Second Baluster First Baluster
Third Baluster
A , B , C , D - ARE YOU USING AN OPENING CAP ? YES - GO TO 11 / NO - GO TO 10
G , H - GO TO 48
Second Baluster First Baluster
Work through the following equations to determine the proper center-to-center baluster spacing . Use the end distance , obtained in Equation number 4 , and the equal distance , obtained in Equation number 3 . Mark these points on the floor and double check that they add up to the total horizontal distance . Use a pumb-bob to plumb up from these points to mark the kneewall . Keep the spacing on different flights and on the balcony as consistent as possible .
EQUAL SPACING CENTER-TO-CENTER ( C ):
Equation 1
Equation 2
Equation 3
Equal Spacing C
1 / 2 Baluster Square
( A ) Horizontal Distance
( B ) Total Horizontal Distance
( B ) Total Horizontal Distance
Size of one Baluster Square
Spacing Required by Code
Number of Spaces
END SPACING ( D ) From face of Newel to Center of First Baluster ): Equation 4
- =
( C ) Equal Spacing Center-to-Center
Landing Newel
Starting Newel
Horizontal Distance A
Total Horizontal Distance B
+ =
÷
1 / 2 Baluster Square
GO TO 48
End Spacing D
=
÷ =
1 / 2 Baluster Square
( B ) Total Horizontal Distance
Number of Spaces ( Round up )
( C ) Equal Spacing Center-to-Center
( D ) End Spacing
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