How to Change Railing Spindles

Removing Old or Damaged Spindles

• 1

  Lay drop cloths to protect walls and carpets during the removal and replacement process.

• 2

  Utilize the reciprocating saw to cut through the center of the spindles to be replaced.

• 3

  Twist by hand or using a wrench to remove old spindles.

• 4

  Remove old nails and splintered wood with pliers.

• 5

  Sand away any remaining glue or adhesive from the hand rail and cap.

Installing New Spindles

• 6

  Lay out the new spindles to determine pattern and spacing. Make sure the gap between each spindle is within required building code guidelines.

• 7

  Locate the placement of each spindle and mark the hand rail and the cap at each position. Drill holes for the spindle to slide into. The holes in the cap should be 1 inch deep while the holes in the hand rail should be 1/2 inch deep.

• 8

  Size each spindle by measuring from the cap to the bottom of the hand rail. Add an additional 1 1/2 inch to the length of each spindle. Cut the spindles to size with the band saw.

• 9

  Add epoxy to the holes in the hand rail and cap and install one spindle. Continue until all spindles have been installed. Wipe away any excess immediately. Allow epoxy to dry for 24 hours.