How to Fixed a Cracked Wood Railing

Wood will eventually crack over time, especially if it is exposed to changes in humidity, stress or abuse. This is particularly true if the wood is allowed to dry out and is not maintained properly. Wooden railings are particularly subject to cracking since they are used so often in your home. Instead of replacing a cracked wood railing, you can repair it. With the right color of wood putty and wood stain, no one will ever know the crack existed.

Chisel
Wood putty, color matched
Putty knife
Fine-grit sanding block
Wood stain
Polyurethane
Paint brushes
Wood filler (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Widen the crack with a chisel. This cleans out the cracked area and will help the wood putty form a better bond.
- 2
  Fill in the crack with wood putty. Use a putty knife and scrape on a thin layer of wood putty into the crack. Scrape off the excess with the edge of the putty knife. Let this set until it is hard to the touch. Apply another coat of putty to the wood if necessary.
- 3
  Sand the patched area with a fine-grit sanding block. Smooth out any ridges in the putty. Check that the patched area is level with the rest of the wood.
- 4
  Apply a thin coat of wood stain over the patched area with a paintbrush to match the color of the existing railing. Brush on a thin coat with the grain of the wood. Let it dry for at least four to six hours.
- 5
  Apply a coat of polyurethane over the patch. Brush on a thin coat of non-yellowing polyurethane. Let it dry for six to eight hours before allowing foot traffic on the stairs.

How to Evaluate Displacements in a Rotating Flat Disk

Homemade Arbor Press

Woodworking