How to Repair a Baluster

A broken baluster can affect both the safety and look of your staircase, but luckily, restoring a damaged baluster is a straightforward DIY project. In the video above, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to effectively repair a baluster using a routing jig and dowel technique.

Function of Balusters

Balusters, also known as spindles, are the vertical posts that support the handrail in a staircase or balcony. They play a major role in both the structural integrity and design of your home’s architecture.

Balusters serve several important purposes:

• Safety: They prevent falls by filling the space between the handrail and stairs or floor
• Support: Balusters help distribute the load on the handrail
• Style: They add to the overall design of your staircase or balcony

Common Causes of Baluster Damage

Balusters can become damaged for many reasons, including the following:

• Accidental impacts
• Loose connections to the handrail or base
• Regular wear and tear
• Wood rot or decay in older homes

Understanding the cause of your baluster’s breakage can help you decide on your repair approach and prevent future issues.

Assessing the Damage to the Baluster

Before beginning your repair, assess the damage to your baluster.

Types of Baluster Damage

Common types of baluster damage include:

• Clean breaks
• Loose connections
• Rotted sections
• Splintered or cracked wood

Determine Repair vs. Replacement

For clean breaks or more minor damage, the repair method demonstrated by Silva is often enough. However, there are some cases when a deteriorating baluster may need to be replaced entirely rather than repaired. Consider replacement in the following circumstances:

• Multiple breaks or cracks are present
• The baluster is severely rotted or decayed
• The damage extends beyond the broken area

Preparing to Repair the Baluster

Gather the following items for a safe and successful repair.

Tools and Materials

• 3/8-inch hardwood dowel
• 3/8-inch straight router bit
• 8d finishing nails
• Hammer
• Nailset
• Plunge router
• Routing jig (custom-made or purchased)
• Wood glue

Create a Routing Jig

Silva uses a custom routing jig to repair the featured baluster. To create your own, follow these instructions:

1. Attach boards at a right angle to form an L-shape
2. Add a guide hole for the router collar in the horizontal piece
3. Cut two pieces of plywood or MDF panels to match the width of your baluster

This jig will help you drill precise, aligned holes in both halves of the broken baluster.

Step-by-Step Baluster Repair Process

1. Use a plunge router to cut a 3/8-inch-diameter by 1 ½-inch-deep dowel hole into the broken end of the baluster.
2. Remove the first half of the baluster from the jig, insert the second half and rout the mating dowel hole.
3. Apply wood glue to both holes and the broken edges.
4. Allow the glue to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Insert a 3/8-inch hardwood dowel halfway into one of the holes.
6. Position the broken baluster halves in the routing jig, ensuring the broken edges align correctly.
7. Push the baluster halves together, aligning them carefully.

Reinstalling the Repaired Baluster

Once the glue has dried, it’s time to reinstall the repaired baluster. Before reinstalling, make sure that:

• Any excess glue has been cleaned off
• The baluster fits properly in its original location
• The repaired joint is strong and aligned

Secure the Baluster in Place

To reinstall the baluster, take these steps:

1. Align the top of the baluster with the handrail.
2. Insert the bottom dowel of the baluster into the hole in the tread.
3. Secure the top of the baluster using 8d finishing nails.
4. Use a nailset to countersink the nails slightly below the surface.

Finishing Touches

After reinstalling the baluster, a few final steps will finalize a professional-looking repair.

Fill Nail Holes

To conceal the nail holes:

1. Apply the filler with a putty knife, slightly overfilling each hole.
2. Once dry, sand the filled areas flush with the surrounding wood.
3. Use wood filler that matches the baluster color.

Touch Up Paint or Stain

If necessary, touch up the repaired area:

• For painted balusters, use matching paint to cover the repaired section.
• For stained wood, apply a matching stain followed by a clear protective finish.

Preventing Future Baluster Damage

To minimize the risk of future baluster damage:

• Apply a protective finish to wooden balusters to prevent decay.
• Talk to household members about gently using the staircase to avoid accidental impacts.
• Regularly inspect your staircase for loose or damaged balusters.
• Tighten any loose connections quickly.

Choosing the Right Materials for Baluster Repair

Selecting the right materials is important for a sturdy repair. Here’s what you should consider:

• Wood type: Match the wood type of the dowel with the baluster for a consistent finish and strength.
• Glue: Use high-quality wood glue designed for structural repairs. This creates a strong bond that can withstand the forces applied to the baluster.
• Finishing nails: Choose finishing nails that are long enough to secure the baluster but not too long to cause splits in the wood.

By being intentional with the materials you choose, you can improve the durability and appearance of your repair.

Benefits of Hiring Professionals for Baluster Repair

Even though repairing a baluster is a manageable DIY project, hiring professional help can have several advantages:

• Expertise: Professionals have the experience and skills needed to perform precise repairs, reducing the risk of mistakes.
• Tools: Experts have access to specialized tools and equipment that may not be readily available to most homeowners.
• Time-saving: Hiring a professional can save you significant time, especially if you have a busy schedule or lack experience.

When in doubt, using a professional can guarantee the repair is done well. However, for those confident in their abilities, following the steps and tips outlined can lead to a successful DIY repair.