Secure Mounting Boards to Banister Posts

What happens in this clip

Position one of the prepared hardwood flooring pieces vertically against a banister post where the gate will be installed. Use one or more extra-long zip ties to securely fasten the wood piece to the banister. Loop the zip tie around both the wood piece and the banister post, pull it as tight as possible, and secure the lock. Repeat this process at multiple points along the wood piece (top, middle, bottom) for maximum stability. Perform the same steps for the other banister post on the opposite side of the stairway.

Goal: Create stable, non-damaging attachment points for the baby gate.

What's used

Tools

• Extra-long Zip Ties
• Velcro straps (for temporary solutions only
• not as secure as zip ties)
• Leftover Hardwood Flooring Pieces
• Pliers

About the full video

This DIY project provides a clever solution for installing a baby gate on staircases with non-standard or irregularly shaped banister posts, where traditional pressure-mounted gates are not suitable, and drilling into the existing posts is undesirable. The method involves securing vertical wooden planks (repurposed hardwood flooring in this case) to the banister posts using extra-long zip ties, creating stable and temporary mounting surfaces to which a standard wall-mount baby gate can then be attached.

Step 3 of 6: Install Banister Barrier

Attach the cut material to the banister. If using acrylic or wood panels, you can drill pilot holes and use screws or specialized banister mounting brackets. For mesh or plastic sheeting, use heavy-duty zip ties, strong adhesive hooks, or U-nails, ensuring they are securely fastened and cannot be easily pulled off by a child. Work from top to bottom, ensuring a snug fit against the banister spindles and top rail.

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