There are a wide variety of stair installation tools, hardware and supplies that help to make the installation process more simple and efficient while yielding a higher quality final product.  While some of these tools are essentially required, many are used in specific situations or for a one time project may be worked around.  The following list of stair installation tools includes most of the tools a professional stair installer will have.   For a do it yourself installation by a homeowner, for example, use this list as a reference and just whittle it down to the essentials for your specific requirements.  Also, remember many of the larger tools such as a Miter Saw, Compressor, etc., can be rented from most of the big home improvement stores.  So without further delay, the following is an ideal list of stair installation tools for a professional installer or someone with an unlimited budget or a future need for them.

Large Tools
Miter Saw
Work Bench or Miter Saw Stand
Metal Cutting Saw – For Iron Balusters (This can be a grinder with a metal cutting wheel, metal cutting
band saw, or even a hacksaw)
Air Compressor and hose
18 gauge Brad Nailer
Trim Router and Bits
Palm Sander
Belt Sander
Power Cords
Jig Saw

Hand Tools
Versa Tool – Rail Bolt Wrench ***This tool is a virtual necessity for any banister installation***
Hearing and Eye Protection
Measuring Tape
Hammer or Rubber Mallet
Speed Square
Utility Knife
Nail Set
Chisels – ½” & 1”
Drill Bits: 3/16”, ¼”, ½” Spade or Forstner, 1” Spade or Forstner
Caulking Gun
Construction Adhesive
Torpedo Level
4’ Level
Chalk Line
Stud Finder
Pencils
Pencil Compass
Pliers
Vise Grip Pliers
Block Plane

Specialty Tools
Centaur
Stair Tread Wizard
Balcony Pro
Baluster Marking Tool
Bore Buster

Bending Specialty Tools
¾” Pipe Clamps
Bending Stanchions
Bender Form
Profile Scraper
Wood Glue
Small Paint Roller & Pan

Hardware & Supplies
Screws (2 ½” and 3 ½” Phillips or Square Drive)
Rail and Post Bolts with Nuts and Washers
Dowel Screws
½” Tapered Plugs
1” Tapered Plugs
Wood Glue
Construction Adhesive
1 ¼” 18 gauge brad nails
2” 18 gauge brad nails
Sand Paper
Wood Putty