How to Replace Your Wood Stair Balusters

Saw the broken or damaged wood baluster in half to remove it from the stairway. Avoid cutting it into several smaller pieces, since you will use its design as a reference for the replacement baluster. A baluster is typically attached with a mortise and tenon at the bottom and nails at the rail.

Grasp the upper half of the baluster with your hands and wiggle it firmly to loosen it from the top rail. Repeat the process on the lower section of the broken baluster to release it from its joint. Send the baluster to a woodturner’s to copy for a prototype.

Inspect the holes at the upper rail and tread for gunk, dried wood glue or nails. Position the tip of a chisel at the edge of the dried adhesive and pound it with a hammer to break it loose. Collect the debris with pliers and discard. Pull out nails with pliers.

Measure the horizontal distance between the balusters and mark the spots on the rail where the replacement baluster will go. Measure the distance from that mark to the tread and transfer it to the baluster.

Position a bevel gauge against the lower edge of the rail and tighten its nut to keep its arm in place. Place the gauge on the upper end of the baluster and mark the angle on it. Cut along the line with a miter saw.

Apply wood glue over both the ends of the baluster. Join the tenon and mortise to form a secure joint, and insert the upper end of the baluster in the hole in the underside of the rail. Wipe excess glue with a damp cloth.

Hammer two two-inch hardwood trim nails into the baluster to secure it to the banister. Cover the nail heads on the banister with putty and let it dry. Touch up the putty with paint or stain to match the surrounding surface of the banister.