Wood Stairs » Installation » How to Install Iron Balusters: Part 3
There are basically three methods to install iron balusters, we highly recommend the IronPro method for many of our customers. IronPro is a patented system that was developed by one of our suppliers, LJ Smith. It is an innovative and patented iron baluster shoe system that can be used in virtually any iron baluster installation situation. In new installations, it can reduce installation times up to 1/3 less than normal. In renovations, it allows you to replace wood balusters with wrought iron balusters without removing the newel post or handrails. If you have a damaged, outdated or plain ugly balustrade but don’t want to spend your hard earned money to replace the entire stair system, IronPro allows you to keep everything but the balusters. All of your other stair parts remain intact. You can repaint or stain them if you would like, to freshen them up, but you do not have to replace them. Not only that but you won’t have to remove and reinstall your newel posts, handrails, stair treads, etc. to install the wrought iron balusters. Whether you are planning a DIY project, or hiring out the wrought iron baluster installation, this method will save money on labor as well.
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Iron balusters installation using LJ Smith’s IronPro system is so simple virtually anyone can do it. With everything in place (even stained or painted) except the iron balusters you simply add the IronPro shoes to the handrail and Stair Tread or Landing Tread, cut the balusters to length, insert them into the shoes and fasten them with the included set screws. The tools required are minimal and we have no reservations recommending this iron baluster installation system to even those with virtually no woodworking experience.
While the IronPro accessories do add an additional cost to the balusters, for the do-it-yourself (DIY) stair installer, it makes metal baluster installation so simple and easy that the time you save alone may just be worth the small expense. Of course, if your handrail, stair tread and newel posts are in good condition and you just want to change out the balusters then the small additional expense for the IronPro accessories is far exceeded by the savings to replace the wood components. They create a strong and durable system and we highly recommend them in many situations.
For more information on the other 2 options for installing iron balusters see: