How to install cement balusters

JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. Learn how to install balusters on your deck today! Be sure to review the specific instructions included with the balusters you select for your deck. For more information, see DecksDirect's Lighting Guide. As always, don't forget to use proper safety equipment, and follow proper safety procedures when installing balusters.

To install balusters on a section of level railing, check out the two videos below: one demonstrates with round balusters and the other with square balusters.

Both videos use metal balusters from Deckorators. Measure the distance between your handrail posts and cut two equal-length rails to create the top and bottom railings. Place the top and bottom rails side by side in their correct installation positions. Using a tape measure and pencil, locate and mark the center of the rails. Begin attaching the baluster connectors on each mark.

Place the included installation screws into each connector. Then, holding the screw and baluster connector firmly, position the point of the screw directly onto the center of the marked location. Using a drill, drive the screw into the railing until the connector pulls tight to it. Be careful not to over-tighten the connection. Mount and install the level bottom rail between the posts. Using a Rail Connector will give your railing extra strength and security compared to simply using standard deck screws.

Once installed, slide a baluster over each established connector, ensuring each baluster is firmly pushed to the bottom of the connector. Position and install the top rail over the balusters. Beginning at one end of the rail, start aligning balusters with their coordinating connectors. After each baluster is linked to a connector, press down firmly on the top rail to ensure that the balusters are pressed fully over the connectors. You may also use a rubber mallet to do this.

Mount and install the top rail level between the posts using rail connecting brackets or hardware. To install balusters on a stair railing section, check out the video below, which uses metal balusters from Deckorators as an example. Lay each stair rail - in the position that you will be installing them - on top of the stair treads and flush against the stair posts. Using those posts as a guide, mark the rails to indicate the proper angle, and then cut the rails. Place the cut rails side by side in their installation position.

This will mean that the top rail will be turned upside down and the ends of the boards will have different angles. Using a tape measure and pencil, locate and mark the center of each rail. NOTE: This spacing will only be accurate if used on a standard staircase angle range of 30 to 35 degrees. For ramps or uncommonly angled staircases, a different spacing width should be determined. Stair baluster connectors are angled to make installation as easy as possible.

Remember that the connector should be positioned so the angle lines up with the angle of the railing. Insert the included installation screw into the connector and use a drill to attach the connector, centered on the marked locations.

Remember to begin drilling vertically into the railing, but once the screw connects with the wood, adjust your drill to finish at the correct angle. Be careful not to over-tighten your connector. Mount and install the bottom rail between the posts. Once installed, slide a baluster over each established connector, ensuring each baluster is firmly positioned to the bottom of the connector.

Beginning at one end of the rail, start aligning metal balusters with their coordinating connectors. To install face-mount balusters, check out our video below, which demonstrates using Deckorators metal balusters.

Measure the distance between your handrail posts and cut two equal-length pieces to create the top and bottom rails. Mount and install the rails at their desired heights on the posts.

To install the balusters onto the rails, place the included plastic or nylon washer in between the rail and the baluster and attach using the included installation screws.

It is helpful to keep a level or speed square handy at this time to ensure a plumb mount. Glass balusters will install slightly differently than metal balusters. Use your tape measure to locate and mark the center of the rails. After you have the right fit of the top railing, place mortar on top of the balusters using trowel, and place the rail on top of the balusters with mortar.

You can also request the caps to be prefabricated with holes in the middle for columns on top of our newel posts STEP 1: Secure the hollow base and let it set.

STEP 2: Slide the 4 sides into the base, use shims if needed to level it, strap or clamp it, fill it to the top with concrete and let it set.

Be sure to fill post with concrete all the way to the top, because other way, the moisture can get inside, expand and crack the post! IMPORTANT: Be sure that the newel posts at the bottom of the steps are not right up against the steps, but the same distance away as the width of the steps, because other way the railing will not meet the post at the right height. Or raise it to the step level STEP 1: It is ideal if a curb is poured with the steps, so that the bottom rail can be placed directly onto it STEP 2: Lay bottom railing directly on mortar, without elevating pads, pre-cut the bottom of the step balusters, drill holes in the bottom railing and follow standard installation instructions.

Drill 2 holes into your existing post, at the height just underneath the railing. STEP 2. Ad mortar as you would with standard installation. STEP 3.