Trim Shims and Install Base Trim

What happens in this clip

After the newel post is plumb and securely shimmed, any parts of the wooden shims that protrude from under the base need to be trimmed flush with the surrounding floor or base trim. The installer uses a utility knife to carefully score and cut the excess shim material. Following this, a decorative base trim piece (such as shoe molding or quarter round) is typically installed around the bottom of the newel post. This trim piece covers the shims and creates a polished, finished appearance for the post's base.

Goal: Neatly trim protruding shims and install decorative base trim around the newel post

What's used

Tools

• Hammer/Nail gun
• Utility knife
• Box cutter

Materials

• Base trim/Molding
• Quarter round
• Custom wood trim
• Small nails/Adhesive
• Wood glue
• Wooden shims

About the full video

This DIY project provides a step-by-step guide for installing a wooden newel post on a stair landing. The process includes accurately marking the post's position, preparing and cutting surrounding trim pieces, drilling pilot holes for secure fastening, applying construction adhesive, plumbing and shimming the post for level alignment, trimming excess shims, and finally, applying caulk or filler for a seamless, professional finish around the base.

Step 6 of 8: Use Wood Shims and Adhesive for Gaps

If there are small gaps between the newel post and the floor/stringer, or between the banister and its supports, insert thin wood shims into these gaps. Apply wood glue to the shims before insertion for a more permanent bond. Trim any excess shim material flush with the surface.

Open this step in the guide

Other videos for this step

• Shim and Trim for Stability and Finish
• Plumb and Secure the Newel Post Temporarily