Are your stairs looking a little defeated? Maybe the spindles have become damaged or broken. If so, they can be easily replaced to achieve healthier-looking stairs.

Today, Beesley and Fildes will guide you through the process of replacing stair spindles. This will enhance the overall aesthetic of your home and improve the safety of your staircase.

So, grab your tools, and let's embark on this DIY journey together. Browse our spindles today to find the perfect match for your interior.

Tools and Materials Needed

Spindles
Tape measure
Saw
Wood glue or epoxy
Woodworking clamps (optional)
Screws or nails
Rubber mallet
Screwdriver or power drill with screwdriver bit
Nail puller
Hammer and punch
Sandpaper
Painters tape
Level
Paint or sealant (optional)

PPE: Ensure that you wear safety gloves and goggles to protect your eyes and skin from chemicals and debris.

Preparing Your Space

Before starting the process, ensure that your workspace is clear of obstructions. Then, lay down drop cloths to protect your floor from damage.

Open all windows and doors for good ventilation when using tools or fumes. Complete this task during the daytime for efficient lighting.

Painter's tape can be used to cover parts of the staircase that aren’t being worked on, such as the steps, to protect them from spills or damage.

Removing The Old Spindles

Once you have successfully prepared the area, follow the steps below to remove your old staircase spindles:

1. Assess and Plan

Measure the spindles and their positioning before removal. This will help you determine where to place the new spindles.

Then, check whether your staircase spindles have been fixed using nails, screws, or adhesive.

2. Loosen the Spindles

For nails, use the claw of your hammer or a nail puller to gently pry them out. You can use a screwdriver or drill bit to unscrew any screws.

If they’re stuck in place with glue, cut the spindle out or carefully apply force to break the glue bond without damaging the handrail or base.

You can also use a hair dryer to soften the glue and use a putty knife to scrape between the spindle and the tread.

3. Remove the Spindles

Once the spindle has loosened, gently wiggle it to remove it from the stairs.

If it won’t seem to budge, use a rubber mallet to tap it free. Avoid using too much force so as not to damage the base of your stairs.

Complete these steps until each spindle has been removed. Then, use sandpaper to smooth down any rough spots.

Installing The New Spindles

Once all of the spindles have been removed and the area has been cleaned of debris, you can begin placing your new spindles.

4. Preparation

Using the measurements from earlier, determine where the spindles will need to be placed. Measure from the bottom of the handrail to the top of the stair tread or base.

Each one should fit snugly without being forced into place. If they need to be cut, mark the required length on each spindle with a marker.

5. Cutting and Testing the Spindles

Use a mitre saw to safely cut along the lines you previously marked.

For spindles with a specific design or pattern, plan the cuts so that these elements align across all spindles once installed.

Before securing the spindles in place, test that they fit by slotting them into the gap. Lightly sand any sharp edges for a smooth finish.

6. Securing the Spindles

Adhesive

Apply a small amount of wood glue or epoxy to each end of the spindle. This will allow it to stick to the rail and base.

Gently insert the bottom of the spindle into the base slot and then into the handrail slot. Use a level to ensure each spindle is straight. Make any adjustments quickly before the glue sets.

You can use woodworking clamps to hold the spindles in place whilst they dry.

Screws

If you’re securing them in place with screws, pre-drill holes to prevent the wood from splitting. Ensure this is slightly smaller than the width of the screw.

Then, drive the screw into the pre-drilled hole with your drill. Be careful not to overtighten the screw.

Finishing Touches

You can paint or stain your stairs for a beautiful finish. Follow the grain of the wood for a smooth surface, and apply a few layers to enhance the colour.

A clear polyurethane sealant can protect painted or stained surfaces from scratches, and moisture damage. Apply a few coats of this with a clean brush.

Once the spindles have dried, wipe them down with a dry cloth to remove any dust or debris.

Invest in High-Quality Spindles with Beesley’s

At Beesley and Fildes, we sell a range of durable spindle designs for your staircase renovation.

Our pine spindles come in a range of colours and designs, perfect for various homes and interiors.

With prices as low as £2.50 a piece, you can breathe life back into your staircase on a budget. Browse our stair components today for a home you can rely on.