Cut Your Balusters

What happens in this clip

Iron balusters are typically supplied longer than needed (e.g., 44 inches) and require cutting to fit your specific railing. Measure the distance from the bottom of the handrail to the top of the bottom trim. Add 1 1/4 inches to this measurement to determine the total length for your baluster. This extra length allows the baluster to slide into both the handrail and the bottom trim. Use an angle grinder to cut the bottom of each baluster to the calculated length. After cutting, use the angle grinder to smooth any burrs or stray metal shapings, as these can scratch your trim or handrail during installation.

Goal: Trim balusters to the precise length required for installation.

What's used

Tools

• Angle Grinder Milwaukee Fuel
• Miter saw with metal cutting blade
• Gloves
• Hearing Protection
• Safety Glasses
• Tape Measure

About the full video

This DIY project guides you through installing iron balusters, replacing an existing railing system. It covers removing old spindles and handrails, preparing new handrails, measuring and pre-drilling holes for balusters, cutting balusters to precise lengths, and finally installing them using epoxy and securing the decorative shoes.

Step 4 of 6: Cut Wrought Iron Balusters

Using a metal-cutting saw (such as an angle grinder with a metal cut-off wheel or a reciprocating saw with a metal blade), carefully cut each wrought iron baluster to the exact length measured from the old baluster. Ensure cuts are straight and clean.

Open this step in the guide

Other videos for this step

• Cut New Iron Balusters to Length
• Remove Old Balusters & Cut New Baluster