August, 2009

Baluster Layout

By Gary Katz

This is the third article in a row that I’ve written about using a construction calculator. I hope you’re getting the point! These tools save time and they save money. And I hope you’ve realized that these Feetinch/ Pythagorean tools aren’t just for the jobsite. I keep one right on my desk for doing plan takeoffs—there’s no easier way to find rafter lengths, square footage, and itemized quantities, like balusters.

I’ve seen all kinds of techniques for laying out balusters, from stepping off each center point with a compass (time consuming!), to stretching a home-made layout tape made from elastic (what?). But there are two methods I’ve found that are much more precise, and much faster. Both are well worth the effort and the investment. On some jobs, all you have to do is save one baluster on one balustrade run and you’ll pay for a construction calculator.

Most codes require a maximum 4 in. space between balusters, so let’s start there. First space the two end balusters appropriately from the newel posts. Newel posts often have more taper than a baluster, so the spacing will be closer usually 2-3 inches works well.

To determine the spacing for the remaining balusters (the working distance), double the end spacing (71⁄4 in.), and subtract it from the newel-to-newel distance.

Just because the code requires a maximum 4 in. spacing between balusters, doesn’t mean you have to space the balusters on 4 in. centers! Save balusters and money by spreading the balusters out as far as possible, but be sure that a 4 in. ball won’t fit through them where the balusters taper most.

Now divide the working distance by the CTC spacing to get a rough count on the number of balusters. Yes, that’s a rough count. In fact, it’s so rough it will probably be a fractional number. You can’t have a fractional number of balusters, so round that number up to the next nearest number—that way you won’t risk having a baluster spacing greater than 4 in. Of course, if the fractional number is really really small…you might be able to round the number down, and save a baluster— I’ve done it hundreds of times. Imagine the savings.

There’s one other tool that’s available for laying out balusters—but you have to have an iPhone to use it. Baluster Pro is an awesome App and can be used for a multitude of layout tasks, at your desk, on the job, in your car—wherever your phone goes, and it only costs a few bucks. Also, while you’re at the App store, check out the new InchCalc+. It won’t out do a Construction Master Pro, but in a pinch…

GARY KATZ, with nearly 40 years experience in the industry, has been a frequent contributor to leading trade journals for more than a decade. He produces the Katz Roadshow-Carpentry Clinics at lumberyards all over America, and publishes THISisCarpentry.com— an E-magazine for carpenters and craftsman. To learn more, visit: www.GaryMKatz.com