As a general rule, please allow two spindles per tread, and then deduct two spindles for the top and bottom newel posts to determine the total number of spindles required for your staircase.
For the landing, measure the length of rail between posts (in millimetres) and divide the total by 112.
Please note, this formula works for 32mm and 41mm sized spindles.
A Sliding Bevel is the simplest way to find the pitch of your stairs. This can be transferred to your spindles and handrail to ensure you cut at the right angle.
TOP TIP – Cut one spindle and insert it in the grooves between the hand and base rail. Slide the spindle up and down the entire length of the rail to highlight any differences in height along the full length of the rail.
Never cut all your spindles in one go. Cut three or four and fit them before moving on to your next batch. If your handrail is slightly “out”, then the distance between the Hand and Base Rail may get larger or smaller as you move up the stairs. By cutting just a few at a time, this will allow you to adjust your spindle length as you go.
Hand and Base rails come with fillet strips that help to sandwich the spindles into place. Bed your spindles and fillet strips on PVA wood glue and pin the fillet strips with 20mm Panel Pins. This will ensure your spindles are strong and secure.
TOP TIP – Use the panel pins at an angle through the spindle and into the base rail below the level of the fillet strip. Do this before fixing the fillet strip in place. This will stop spindles from rattling.
TOP TIP – Countersink the panel pins into the filet strip and fill with wood filler before finishing.
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