How to Repair Broken Stair Balusters | This Old House

Moments in this video

1. 0:35–1:43 Inspect and Remove Damaged Balusters From Stair Baluster Repair, Step 1: Assess Baluster Damage

   Begin by inspecting the stair balusters to identify which ones are broken or loose. Observe the construction to understand how they are mortised into the handrail and dovetailed at the base. Gently loosen and remove the trim moldings that hold the balusters in place at the bottom. Use a hammer and a pry bar to carefully tap the dovetailed balusters out of their slots without causing further damage to the surrounding structure.

2. 0:35–1:43 Inspect and Remove Damaged Balusters From Stair Baluster Repair, Step 2: Remove Broken Baluster

   Begin by inspecting the stair balusters to identify which ones are broken or loose. Observe the construction to understand how they are mortised into the handrail and dovetailed at the base. Gently loosen and remove the trim moldings that hold the balusters in place at the bottom. Use a hammer and a pry bar to carefully tap the dovetailed balusters out of their slots without causing further damage to the surrounding structure.

The guide that use this video

• Stair Baluster Repair