Can You Use Straight Balusters for Stairs?

Straight Balusters

• Straight balusters differ from the more decorative designs in their formation. Round balusters are created on a lathe, and they might also include carved designs around the baluster. Straight balusters can be as simple as 2-by-2 boards with pegs or dovetails at either end.

When to Use Straight Balusters

• To keep your stairs cohesive in design, the balusters should match the newel post at the end of the stairs. If you have chosen to use a straight-sided newel post, select balusters to reflect the same square shape. Straight balusters are usually used for more utilitarian stairs, such as outside stairs or those leading to a basement. They can also be used if your home has an angular design theme.

How Balusters Fit

• Balusters are installed into stair treads and rails using one of two set methods. Some are cut at either end into a truncated triangle with the cut-off top as the baluster. These slide into the side of the stair tread and are secured with nails. A piece of trim covers the dovetail opening. The other way to install balusters is with a pin. Pegs inserted in either end of the baluster fit into a hole in the stair tread and rail to secure the baluster.

Baluster Code Requirements

• Balusters protect people from falling under the rail off the stairs where the stairs are exposed. Essentially, the balusters act like a guardrail on the stairs. Since this is their function, they must adhere to the code for guardrails. According to Charles Wing in "Ortho's Home Improvement Encyclopedia Problem Solving A to Z," a 4-inch wide ball should not be able to fit between the balusters on a guardrail or stairs. The balusters must consistently support the rail at the code-required height of 30 to 38 inches above the stair tread. Guardrails must be 36 inches high -- installing a rail supported by balusters at 36 inches from the stair tread will keep the stairs and guardrail created by the balusters within code.