Balustrading
A baluster is typically described as an upright support with a vase like design such as the leg of a chair or supports in a railing. This design feature is found to be very appealing and balustrade has become a popular feature among many structures. Self installation of a balustrade system can be quite tricky. It is recommended that you have knowledge of this feature before proceeding or possibly hire a professional with the right amount of experience.
An example of how baluster installation for a patio railing surround would work is by first making reference points so you have something to go back to as a guide. You always want to make sure you are starting off with a leveled base. Once you are sure your surface area is level, you may begin. Use a form of marking system to show where your base is. Once this is done, you must find the center of the base in those marking so you know where to install your rod support. Use a drill strong enough to go through the concrete for placement of your rod. Be sure and apply a very strong adhesive to the bottom of your base to ensure that it is secure.
Place a concrete anchor in the ground followed by the support rod. Next you will want to place your base within the markings you made. Reapply adhesive if necessary. Following the positioning of your base will be column placement. Be sure and apply adhesive to your columns as well on both top and bottom. Once your column is in place, secure it down with an iron post and nut. If the rod stands taller than your column, be sure and clip this off.
Place your bottom rail down using a level and chalk string, if needed, to be sure that your lines are straight and even. Place your balusters along the bottom rail, measuring to ensure even spacing. Be sure that none of them are crooked and that they all maintain the same position. Mark your bottom rail so that you can refer back to see where the baluster need to be placed. Once everything is securely in place and properly marked, you can start applying adhesive to the balusters and pressing them to your bottom rail.
It is then time to put the top on your columns and move onto the top rail. Screw down a board to the top of the balusters that the top rail can secure itself too. If you follow these instructions properly, before you know it, you will have a wonderful looking baluster system set up on your patio that you and your guests are sure to love.
Pre-Swaged DIY Balustrading with Lag Screws (YouTube) |
