1-1/4" Baluster

Baluster style contributes a lot to the overall stairway design. There will be more balusters in your balustrade (three per tread and every 4” on center for balconies) than any other component. There are two types of baluster turnings widely used today. The Traditional or tread oriented baluster turning follows the visual line of the stair tread at the bottom, and the handrail at the top. The visual effect of the Traditional balusters is that the turnings “step up” along with the staircase creating the balustrade.

The Modern or rail oriented baluster turning follows the line of the handrail. The turnings are a consistent length and the turning at both top and bottom follow the angle of the handrail. The visual effect of the Modern baluster is that the turnings “flow” up the balustrade, parallel to the handrail.

Whether you choose the Traditional or Contemporary style installation, you can be sure that our carvings will complement your balustrade. And whether you choose flutes, reeds, twists, octagon, or new rope twist, you can be sure that our carvings will line up correctly.

When choosing a stair baluster, first consider the size (width and depth) of the baluster you select. All hardwood balusters are turned from 1 ¼” or 1 ¾” square blanks. All baluster profiles are available in any wood species or primed. 1 ¼” balusters have limited carving options simply because of their small circumference. 1 ¾” balusters are available with a broad array of carving options; including, fluted, reeded, octagonal, twist, chamfered, and a New beautiful carving profile - "Rope Twist". And don’t forget to consider the negative space (the opening between the balusters). Interior Designers agree that what’s not there (the space between the balusters) is as important as the positive shape (the baluster itself) to the success of the overall design!

The Nuts and Bolts: Regardless of the style, all of our wood balusters can be installed with steel dowel-screws or traditional hardwood dowels. We recommend the steel dowel-screw method because the mounting system is completely concealed and the baluster is permanently fastened with a mechanically strong joint. If all balusters are permanently fastened this way, we think you will agree that the balustrade will be more rigid.

We do, however have a healthy respect for traditional craftsman methods, so we give you the opportunity to choose. We can provide a hardwood dowel with your balusters we ship; steel dowel-screws must be ordered separately.