A typical project follows these steps:

1. Measure — Determine baluster lengths for each section (stair and flat/level) and angles for stair sections.

2. Order Samples (optional) — Test measurements with 1-2 sample balusters.

3. Place Full Order — Order all balusters, shoes, and accessories.

4. Remove Old Balusters — Remove existing wood or metal balusters.

5. Prepare — Fill old holes if needed, prepare surfaces.

6. Install New Balusters — Install using your chosen method.

7. Install Shoes/Collars — Add decorative shoes and any collars.

8. Touch Up — Final adjustments and touch-up if needed.

Here's a compatibility chart:

• Pin Top / Round Top — Hollow Pin Top Balusters only

• Screw-Down Shoes (Flat/Swivel) — All baluster types

• Screw Into Wood Handrail — Solid and Hollow with Metal Insert Balusters only

• Screw Into Metal Bar — Solid and Hollow with Metal Insert Balusters only

• Welded Base Plate — Iron Newel Posts with welded base

• Hanger Bolt — Certain newel posts and balusters

• Plastic Dowel Insert — Certain hollow balusters

Not necessarily. Many homeowners successfully install iron balusters themselves, especially using the Easy Install Kit with Screw-Down Shoes. However, if you are uncomfortable with drilling, cutting, or working with epoxy, or if your staircase has unusual angles, hiring a professional installer is recommended for the best results.

Pin Top Installation is only for Hollow Pin Top Balusters. Balusters come with a Pin Top and square bottom — no wood screws required.

How to Install:

1. Cut balusters to length.

2. Drill holes in tread/floor (0.5" deep) and handrail (1.5" deep).

3. Put shoes on baluster, if needed, and secure with tape.

4. Put epoxy in both handrail and stair tread/floor holes.

5. Put baluster in both holes, starting with Pin Top.

6. Drop the shoe to cover the hole.

Baluster Measurements Required:

• Length: 1.25" longer than the distance from the bottom of the handrail to stair tread/floor.

Advantages:

• Angle measurements not required.

• Easy to cut on your own since used with hollow Pin Top Balusters.

• Affordable.

Disadvantages:

• Longer to install.

• Need drilled holes in handrail.

• Epoxy required.

• Less secure — possibility of epoxy loosening over time, rattling & rotating.

• Hard to remove due to epoxy.

• Pin Top may be visible.

Returns should be sent to: 53 Bakersfield Street, Unit 7, North York, Ontario, M3J 1Z4, Canada. Do not send items back without first requesting a return by emailing orders@misterbaluster.com.

Spoon balusters feature spoon-shaped decorative elements. Available styles: Single Spoon and Double Spoon. Available in 1/2" Hollow Metal Insert Square Shaft.

The easiest installation method is using Screw-Down Shoes (Flat or Swivel). No drilling into the floor or handrail is required — you simply screw the shoes into the tread and railing surface. Our Easy Install Kit comes with 10 balusters and 20 shoes, making it a complete beginner-friendly package.

The Easy Install Kit includes 10 Plain 1/2" Hollow Square Shaft Pin Top Balusters and 20 Screw-Down Shoes (any combination of Flat and/or Swivel). Each shoe includes 2 screws. To install, you cut the balusters to length (removing the Pin Top so it fits inside each shoe), then install shoes on the top and bottom of each baluster. No hole drilling is required. We can also cut the balusters for you.

The number of balusters depends on the total linear footage of your railing and the spacing required to meet the 4-inch sphere rule. As a general guide, most stair treads use 2 balusters per tread, and level/balcony sections typically space balusters about 4–5 inches on center. For an accurate count, measure your total railing length and divide by the desired spacing. Contact us if you need help calculating.

The Screw Into Metal Bar method is for flat or angled Solid Balusters, Hollow With Metal Insert Balusters, and Iron Newel Posts. Balusters come with a threaded hole at the top which allows a machine screw to fasten the baluster to a metal bar. The metal bar sits in a groove in the underside of a wood handrail. Screws are completely hidden from view after installation. Threaded holes are 1/4"-20 and compatible machine screws will be included.

How to Install:

1. Drill holes in stair tread/floor, typically 0.5" to 1" deep.

2. Put shoes on baluster, if needed, and secure with tape.

3. Put bottom of baluster in drilled hole.

4. Fit baluster top to metal bar and secure with screw.

5. Drop the shoe to cover the hole.

6. Attach wood handrail to metal bar.

Baluster Measurements Required:

• Length

• Angle: Only for the angled section of your stairs.

Advantages:

• Quick to install.

• No drilled holes in handrail.

• Secure and no rattling.

• Easy to remove.

Disadvantages:

• Requires precise length & angle measurements.

• Expensive.

• For Solid or Hollow With Metal Insert Balusters only.

The Tall Modern Shoe is available in lengths from 2" to 7.5" in 0.5" increments: 2", 2.5", 3", 3.5", 4", 4.5", 5", 5.5", 6", 6.5", 7", 7.5". This allows you to cover different hole depths or achieve different aesthetic looks. Available in all standard powder coating colors.

These products are typically in stock and ship immediately:

• Hollow Pin Top Balusters with no modifications (44", Flat Black)

• Shoes and Collars in Flat Black

Other manufacturing times:

• Most Solid Balusters and Hollow with Metal Insert: ~2 business days

• Solid Tuning Forks, Rectangles, and Ovals (require welding): 3-5 business days

• Hollow Pin Top with custom colors or length modifications: ~2 business days

This method is used when there is a metal bar that sits underneath the wood handrail. We drill threaded holes (drill & tap) in the top of the baluster so that the balusters can be secured to the metal bar. The screws are completely hidden as they are covered by the wood handrail. This method is only available for Solid and Hollow With Metal Insert Balusters.

We offer three types of customizations:

1. Length Cuts — We cut balusters to your specified length. Available for all baluster types, all iron newel posts, and certain shoes.

2. Angle Cuts — We cut the top of the baluster at your specified angle for angled stair sections. Only available for Solid and Hollow with Metal Insert Balusters and certain Iron Newel Posts.

3. Custom Powder Coating — Choose from our standard colors or request a custom color. Available for all products.

Yes! For Solid Oval and Solid Rectangle balusters, you can customize the length of the decorative section. The standard oval section is approximately 26" long and the standard rectangle section is approximately 24" long, but both can be adjusted to any height you want. This is separate from the total baluster length — the total length includes the shaft above and below the decorative section.

Yes! If you have your own solid balusters, bring them to our shop and we will cut (length and/or angle), drill (countersunk through-hole or drilled & tapped hole) for $2 per baluster.

Yes! Many customers mix designs for a decorative look — for example, alternating Plain balusters with Collar or Twist designs. Just make sure all balusters on the same staircase use the same shaft size so they are compatible with the same shoes.

Yes! Many homeowners successfully replace wood balusters with iron balusters as a DIY project. The easiest method is using Screw-Down Shoes, which require no hole drilling — our Easy Install Kit is designed specifically for this. For a more permanent installation, the Screw Into Wood Handrail method provides the most secure fit.

Yes! You can email, text, or use the live chat in any language. We use AI translation to communicate in all languages, and there have been no communication issues so far. If you prefer to speak over the phone, we speak English, Vietnamese, Mandarin, and Cantonese.

Yes, we stock and supply certain raw metal sizes and profiles:

• Solid Square Bars: 1/2", 5/8", 3/4"

• Solid Round Bars: 1/2", 9/16", 5/8", 3/4"

• Sometimes in stock: various round, square, and rectangular tubes

Contact us if you need a specific material not listed.

You can select your preferred language from the top right corner on desktop/laptop, or from the menu on mobile. Available languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Dutch, Polish, Portuguese, Swedish, Chinese (Simplified), and Vietnamese.

You will need a tape measure, a drill with wood and metal bits, a level, an Allen wrench (for tightening set screws on baluster shoes), masking tape, and a metal-cutting saw such as a portable band saw, angle grinder with a cutting disc, or hacksaw.

Currently, we only offer on-site measurement in Ontario, Canada, and only when we complete the full installation ourselves.

The fastest and safest method is to cut each baluster in half using a reciprocating saw, jigsaw, or handsaw. Once cut, pull the top half down to loosen it from the handrail, then twist the bottom half to snap the wood or break the glue joint at the tread.

If your new iron balusters and base shoes don't fully cover the existing holes, you can plug them. Coat wooden dowels in wood glue, tap them into the holes, and cut flush with a flush-cut saw. For minor gaps, stainable wood filler works well.

DIY: Plan for 1–2 full days for a standard staircase. First-timers should expect about 15–20 minutes per baluster.

Professional: An experienced installer can typically complete a full flight in 4–8 hours, averaging 5–10 minutes per baluster.

Phase Breakdown:

• Removal & Prep (1–2 hrs) — Cutting out old balusters, cleaning or filling holes.

• Measuring & Cutting (2–4 hrs) — The most critical phase. Each baluster is measured and cut individually due to slight staircase variations.

• Dry Fitting (1 hr) — Place all cut balusters without epoxy to verify fit and pattern.

• Gluing & Securing (1–2 hrs) — Apply epoxy, set balusters, tighten base shoe set screws.

• Curing (24 hrs) — Allow epoxy to fully cure for maximum strength.

Factors That Add Time:

• Knee walls vs. open treads — Open treads may require angled cuts at both ends.

• Complex patterns — Alternating knuckle and scroll designs need more layout planning.

• Modifying holes — Drilling out undersized holes adds a few hours to prep.

You can dispose of them. If they were angle-cut, consider keeping one so you can measure the angle and send it to us — we'll use it to match the angle cuts on your new metal balusters.

Yes, and we can modify them to fit your specific needs.

The following products support lengths over 44" (up to 72"). These are all solid-core, oval, rectangle, tuning fork, bare/unfinished balusters, and newel posts:

• Oval 1/2" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (2.5" Width) (O-12R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/loop-solid-1-2-round-baluster

• Large Oval 1/2" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (4.125" Width) (LO-12R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/large-oval-baluster-1-2-round-solid-shaft

• Oval 1/2" Solid Square Shaft Baluster (4.125" Width) (O-12S-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/loop-solid-1-2-square

• Rectangle 1/2" Solid Square Shaft Baluster (2.25" Width) (R-12S-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/window-solid-1-2-square

• Large Rectangle 1/2" Solid Square Shaft Baluster (3" Width) (LR-12S-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/l-rectangle-baluster-1-2-square-solid-shaft

• X-Large Rectangle 1/2" Solid Square Shaft Baluster (4" Width) (XLR-12S-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/x-large-rectangle-baluster-1-2-square-solid-shaft

• Tuning Fork 1/2" Solid Square Shaft Baluster (SO-12S-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/double-window-with-flat-black-link-hollow-1-2-square-baluster-copy

• Tuning Fork 1/2" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (SO-12R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/split-oval-1-2-solid-round-shaft-baluster

• 1/2" Steel Square Bars Plain Solid — Bare/Unfinished (P-12S-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/plain-1-2-solid-steel-square-bars-bare-unfinished-balusters

• 5/8" Steel Square Bars Plain Solid — Bare/Unfinished (P-58S-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/5-8-steel-square-bars-plain-solid-bare-unfinished

• 9/16" Steel Round Rods Plain Solid — Bare/Unfinished (P-916R-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/9-16-steel-round-rods-plain-solid-bare-unfinished

• 1/2" Steel Round Rods Plain Solid — Bare/Unfinished (P-12R-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/1-2-steel-round-rods-plain-solid-bare-unfinished

• 5/8" Steel Round Rods Plain Solid — Bare/Unfinished (P-58R-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/5-8-steel-round-rods-plain-solid-bare-unfinished

• Single Twist — Bare/Unfinished 1/2" Solid Square Shaft (ST-12S-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/single-twist-bare-unfinished-1-2-solid-square-shaft-baluster

• Double Twist — Bare/Unfinished 1/2" Solid Square Shaft (DT-12S-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/double-twist-bare-unfinished-1-2-solid-square-shaft-baluster

• Rectangle — Bare/Unfinished 1/2" Solid Square Shaft (2.25" Width) (R-12S-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/rectangle-bare-unfinished-1-2-solid-square-shaft-baluster-2-25-width

• Large Rectangle — Bare/Unfinished 1/2" Solid Square Shaft (3" Width) (LR-12S-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/large-rectangle-bare-unfinished-1-2-solid-square-shaft-baluster-3-width

• X-Large Rectangle — Bare/Unfinished 1/2" Solid Square Shaft (4" Width) (XLR-12S-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/x-large-rectangle-bare-unfinished-1-2-solid-square-shaft-baluster-4-width

• Large Oval — Bare/Unfinished 1/2" Solid Round Shaft (4.125" Width) (LO-12R-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/large-oval-bare-unfinished-1-2-solid-round-shaft-baluster-4-125-width

• Oval — Bare/Unfinished 1/2" Solid Square Shaft (4.125" Width) (O-12S-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/oval-bare-unfinished-1-2-solid-square-shaft-baluster-4-125-width

• Oval — Bare/Unfinished 1/2" Solid Round Shaft (2.5" Width) (O-12R-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/oval-bare-unfinished-1-2-solid-round-shaft-baluster-2-5-width

• Oval Only — Bare/Unfinished 1/2" Solid Square Shaft (4.125" Width) (OO-12S-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/oval-only-bare-unfinished-1-2-solid-square-shaft-4-125-width

• Oval Only — Bare/Unfinished 1/2" Solid Round Shaft (4.125" Width) (OO-12R-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/oval-only-bare-unfinished-1-2-solid-round-shaft-4-125-width

• Tuning Fork — Bare/Unfinished 1/2" Solid Round Shaft (SO-12R-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/tuning-fork-bare-unfinished-1-2-solid-round-shaft-baluster-u-shaped-split-oval-4-125-width

• Tuning Fork — Bare/Unfinished 1/2" Solid Square Shaft (SO-12S-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/tuning-fork-bare-unfinished-1-2-solid-square-shaft-baluster-u-shaped-split-oval-4-125-width-copy

• Plain 1.5" Round Shaft Steel Newel Post (P-15R-NP) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/plain-1-5-round-shaft-steel-newel-post

• Plain 1.5" Round Shaft Steel Newel Post With Welded Base (P-15R-NP-WB) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/plain-1-5-round-shaft-steel-newel-post-with-welded-base

• Plain 1.5" Square Shaft Steel Newel Post (P-15S-NP) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/plain-1-5-square-shaft-steel-newel-post

• Plain 1.5" Square Shaft Steel Newel Post With Welded Base (P-15S-NP-WB) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/plain-1-5-square-shaft-steel-newel-post-with-welded-base

• Plain 2" Square Shaft Steel Newel Post With Welded Base — Top and Bottom (P-2S-NP-2WB) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/plain-2-square-shaft-steel-newel-post-with-welded-base-top-and-bottom

Additionally, all Solid Single Color baluster variants (pre-colored versions of standard solid balusters) also support up to 72". See the Products SOURCE for the full list of individual color product pages.

Note: Hollow Pin Top balusters and Hollow Metal Insert balusters are limited to a maximum of 44". Tall Modern Shoes range from 2" to 7.5".

All of the following products offer both "Screw Into Wood Handrail" and "Screw Into Metal Bar" as installation method options. This includes all Solid balusters (multi-color and single-color variants), Oval balusters, Rectangle balusters, Tuning Fork balusters, Hollow Metal Insert balusters, Bare/Unfinished balusters, Newel Posts, and the Baluster Test Sample.

This covers 76+ unique product pages. For the full list with SKUs and links, refer to the "Product Variation Groups" tab — every group that shows "Installation Method: Screw into Wood Handrail / Screw into Metal Bar" in the Available Modifications column applies.

Note: Hollow Pin Top balusters do NOT support screw installation — they use Pin Top installation only. The Easy Install Kit also does not include screw-in installation as it comes with screw-down shoes instead.

The "No Installation Method" option (also labeled "None") is available on all Solid-core balusters and all Bare/Unfinished balusters. This means we ship the baluster without any holes drilled or screws — you handle the installation yourself or use your own method.

This includes:

• All 30 Solid Multi-Color balusters (1/2" Square and 9/16" Round shafts)

• All Solid Single Color variants

• All 3 Solid Oval balusters + single-color variants

• All 3 Solid Rectangle balusters + single-color variants

• Both Tuning Fork balusters + single-color variants

• All 7 Bare/Unfinished Plain balusters

• All 3 Bare/Unfinished Rectangle balusters

• All 5 Bare/Unfinished Oval balusters

• Both Bare/Unfinished Tuning Fork balusters

Products that do NOT offer "No Installation Method":

• Hollow Pin Top balusters — these are Pin Top only (no screw option)

• Hollow Metal Insert balusters — these require Screw Into Wood Handrail or Screw Into Metal Bar

• Newel Posts — these require Screw Into Wood Handrail or Screw Into Metal Bar

9/16" Round Shaft (13 products):

• Double Ball Hammer 9/16" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (DBH-916R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/double-ball-hammer-solid-9-16-round

• Double French Hammer 9/16" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (DFH-916R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/double-french-hammer-baluster-9-16-round-shaft-solid-core

• Double Hammer 9/16" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (DH-916R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/double-hammer-solid-9-16-round

• Double Spoon 9/16" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (DS-916R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/double-spoon-baluster-9-16-round-shaft-solid-core

• Double Spoon Hammer 9/16" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (DSH-916R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/double-spoon-solid-9-16-round

• Single Ball Hammer 9/16" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (SBH-916R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/single-ball-hammer-solid-9-16-round

• Single French Hammer 9/16" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (SFH-916R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/single-french-hammer-baluster-9-16-round-shaft-solid-core

• Single Hammer 9/16" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (SH-916R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/single-hammer-solid-9-16-round

• Single Spoon 9/16" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (SS-916R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/single-spoon-baluster-9-16-round-shaft-solid-core

• Single Spoon Hammer 9/16" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (SSH-916R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/single-spoon-solid-9-16-round

• Plain 9/16" Hollow Round Shaft Round Top Baluster (P-916R-PT) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/plain-9-16-hollow-round-shaft-pin-top-baluster

• 9/16" Steel Round Rods Plain Solid — Bare/Unfinished (P-916R-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/9-16-steel-round-rods-plain-solid-bare-unfinished

• Plain 9/16" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (P-916R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/plain-solid-9-16-round

1/2" Square Shaft (60 products):

This is our largest category — see the "Product Variation Groups" tab for the complete list. Includes all Solid multi-color and single-color, all Hollow Pin Top, all Hollow Metal Insert, and many Bare/Unfinished balusters.

1/2" Round Shaft (9 products):

• Oval 1/2" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (2.5" Width) (O-12R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/loop-solid-1-2-round-baluster

• Large Oval 1/2" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (4.125" Width) (LO-12R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/large-oval-baluster-1-2-round-solid-shaft

• Tuning Fork 1/2" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (SO-12R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/split-oval-1-2-solid-round-shaft-baluster

• 1/2" Steel Round Rods Plain Solid — Bare/Unfinished (P-12R-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/1-2-steel-round-rods-plain-solid-bare-unfinished

• Large Oval — Bare/Unfinished 1/2" Solid Round Shaft (LO-12R-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/large-oval-bare-unfinished-1-2-solid-round-shaft-baluster-4-125-width

• Oval — Bare/Unfinished 1/2" Solid Round Shaft (2.5" Width) (O-12R-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/oval-bare-unfinished-1-2-solid-round-shaft-baluster-2-5-width

• Oval Only — Bare/Unfinished 1/2" Solid Round Shaft (OO-12R-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/oval-only-bare-unfinished-1-2-solid-round-shaft-4-125-width

• Tuning Fork — Bare/Unfinished 1/2" Solid Round Shaft (SO-12R-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/tuning-fork-bare-unfinished-1-2-solid-round-shaft-baluster-u-shaped-split-oval-4-125-width

• Plain 1/2" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (P-12R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/plain-1-2-solid-round-shaft-baluster

5/8" Square Shaft (2 products):

• 5/8" Steel Square Bars Plain Solid — Bare/Unfinished (P-58S-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/5-8-steel-square-bars-plain-solid-bare-unfinished

• Plain 5/8" Solid Square Baluster (P-58S-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/plain-solid-5-8-square

5/8" Round Shaft (5 products):

• Female 5/8" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (FEM-58R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/female-solid-5-8-round

• Male 5/8" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (MAL-58R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/male-solid-5-8-round

• 5/8" Steel Round Rods Plain Solid — Bare/Unfinished (P-58R-S-BARE) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/5-8-steel-round-rods-plain-solid-bare-unfinished

• Male with Gold Accents 5/8" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (MAL-58R-S-GOLD) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/male-with-gold-accents-5-8-solid-round-shaft-baluster

• Plain 5/8" Solid Round Shaft Baluster (P-58R-S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/plain-solid-5-8-round

3/4" Square or Round Shaft:

We do not currently carry any 3/4" shaft products.

1.5" Round Shaft (2 products — Newel Posts):

• Plain 1.5" Round Shaft Steel Newel Post (P-15R-NP) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/plain-1-5-round-shaft-steel-newel-post

• Plain 1.5" Round Shaft Steel Newel Post With Welded Base (P-15R-NP-WB) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/plain-1-5-round-shaft-steel-newel-post-with-welded-base

1.5" Square Shaft (2 products — Newel Posts):

• Plain 1.5" Square Shaft Steel Newel Post (P-15S-NP) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/plain-1-5-square-shaft-steel-newel-post

• Plain 1.5" Square Shaft Steel Newel Post With Welded Base (P-15S-NP-WB) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/plain-1-5-square-shaft-steel-newel-post-with-welded-base

2" Square Shaft (1 product — Newel Post):

• Plain 2" Square Shaft Steel Newel Post With Welded Base — Top and Bottom (P-2S-NP-2WB) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/plain-2-square-shaft-steel-newel-post-with-welded-base-top-and-bottom

1/2" Square Shaft (12 options — our most popular size):

• Collar with 2 Holes 1/2" Square Shaft (COLL2-12S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/knuckle-with-2-holes-1-2-square

• Square Collar 1/2" Square Shaft (SCOLL-12S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/square-knuckle-1-2-square

• Collar 1/2" Square Shaft (COLL-12S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/knuckle-1-2-square

• Angle Shoe 1/2" Square Shaft (ANGSHOE-12S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/angle-shoe-1-2-square

• Flat Screw Down Shoe 1/2" Square Shaft (ALUMSHOE-12S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/aluminum-shoe-1-2-square

• Set Screw Shoe 1/2" Square Shaft (SETSHOE-12S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/set-screw-shoe-1-2-square

• Drop Shoe 1/2" Square Shaft (DSHOE-12S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/drop-shoe-1-2-square

• Modern Shoe 1/2" Square Shaft (MODSHOE-12S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/modern-shoe-1-2-square

• Flat Shoe (2" x 1/4") 1/2" Square Shaft (FLATSHOE-12S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/flat-shoe-1-2-square-shaft

• Swivel Screw Down Shoe 1/2" Square Shaft (SWIVSHOE-12S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/swivel-shoe-1-2-square

• Tall Modern Shoe with Set Screw (1" wide) 1/2" Square Shaft (TMODSHOE-12S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/tall-modern-shoe-1-2-square-shaft

• Tall Modern Shoe (5/8" wide) 1/2" Square Shaft (TMODSHOE-12S-NOSS) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/tall-modern-shoe-5-8-wide-1-2-square-shaft

9/16" Round Shaft (1 option):

• Drop Shoe 9/16" Round Shaft (DSHOE-916S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/drop-shoe-9-16-round

5/8" Square Shaft (1 option):

• Drop Shoe 5/8" Square Shaft (DSHOE-58S) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/drop-shoe-5-8-square

5/8" Round Shaft (1 option):

• Drop Shoe 5/8" Round Shaft (DSHOE-58R) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/drop-shoe-5-8-round

1/2" Round Shaft:

No dedicated shoes currently available for 1/2" round shaft balusters. Contact us for recommendations.

3/4" Square or Round Shaft:

No shoes available — we do not currently carry 3/4" shaft products.

1.5" Round Shaft — Newel Posts (1 option):

• Shoe for 1.5" Round Shaft Newel Post (NPSHOE-15R) : https://misterbaluster.com/products/shoe-for-1-5-round-shaft-newel-post

1.5" Square Shaft — Newel Posts:

No dedicated shoe currently available. Contact us for options.

You can order as many color samples as you'd like. We offer all 11 powder coat colors as 4" samples so you can see the actual finish in your space before committing to a full order:

• Black Flat/Matte

• Textured Black

• White Flat/Matte

• Pearl Silver

• Oil Rubbed Bronze

• Copper Vein

• Silver Vein

• Dorado Gold

• Gun Metal

• Burnt Penny

• Brass Gold

Order here: https://misterbaluster.com/products/powder-coat-sample-limit-3-per-order

You can order a baluster test sample to verify your measurements before placing a full order. The test sample is an unfinished (bare steel) plain baluster that lets you confirm the fit.

You can customize the sample by selecting:

• Installation Method — Screw Into Wood Handrail, Screw Into Metal Bar, or Pin Top

• Shaft Size — 1/2" Square, 5/8" Square, 1/2" Round, 9/16" Round, or 5/8" Round

• Length — 30" to 44"

• Stair Angle — 25° to 45° (in 1° increments), or no angle for flat sections

All options are included at no extra charge. Order here: https://misterbaluster.com/products/baluster-sample

• Screw Into Wood Handrail: Your angle measurement can be off by ± 2 or 3 degrees and still fit fine.

• Screw Into Metal Bar: The tolerance is tighter — can be off by ± 1 degree only.

Provide your angle when you order and we'll cut the top of the baluster so it fits well with your handrail.

1. Open the app with phone in vertical (portrait) position.

2. Exit out of any ads.

3. Rotate to horizontal (landscape) position.

4. IMPORTANT: While still horizontal, click the button in the top right to change the measuring orientation to horizontal (landscape). If you don't do this, you'll get the opposite angle (e.g., 40° stairs would show as 50°).

5. Place your phone on the handrail or a level spanning at least 3 stair treads.

6. Record the angle reading.

Angle cuts are recommended for angled sections of your stairs (not flat/level sections) to ensure the balusters fit perfectly with the underside of the handrail or metal bar/subrail. Angle cuts are only available for Solid Balusters, Hollow with Metal Insert Balusters, and certain Iron Newel Posts.

Angled length is measured from the bottom-most point to the top-most point of the baluster. For an angled baluster, you measure from the tip of the angle cut to the bottom.

For flat/level sections (balconies, landings), the length is a straight vertical measurement from the floor to the underside of the handrail, adjusted for your installation method. For stair sections, the measurement is more complex because the handrail is angled. The length for an angled baluster is measured from the bottom-most point to the top-most point (tip of the angle cut). Refer to our Ordering Guide for detailed instructions.

If your staircase has multiple angled sections (e.g., upper flight and lower flight), each section may have a different angle. Measure each section separately using the leveling app or digital angle finder, and order balusters with the appropriate angle for each section.

Length options are available in quarter-inch increments, typically ranging from around 30" to 44" (the exact range depends on the product). The standard uncut length for most balusters is 44". If you need a custom length, provide it during ordering and we will cut it for you.

Not necessarily. Balusters on flat/level sections (balconies, landings) and balusters on angled stair sections may require different lengths. Even within a stair section, if the floor or tread levels vary slightly, individual baluster lengths could differ. Measure each section and provide the appropriate lengths when ordering.

Rectangle balusters feature one or more rectangular decorative panels along the shaft. Available styles include: Single Rectangle, Double Rectangle, Double Rectangle with Black Link, 2-Line Rectangle, 4-Line Rectangle, Large Rectangle (3" width), and X-Large Rectangle (4" width). Most are available in 1/2" Square Shaft in Solid and Hollow with Metal Insert cores.

The Screw Into Wood Handrail method is for flat or angled Solid Balusters, Hollow With Metal Insert Balusters, and Iron Newel Posts. Balusters come with thru-holes at the top which allow a screw to fasten the balusters directly into the underside of the wood handrail. Thru-holes are countersunk which help hide the screw head and sit flush. Hole size is 7/32". Compatible wood screws will be included in each order.

How to Install:

1. Drill holes in stair tread/floor, typically 0.5" to 1" deep.

2. Put shoes on baluster, if needed, and secure with tape.

3. Put bottom of baluster in drilled hole.

4. Fit baluster top to wood handrail and secure with screw.

5. Drop the shoe to cover the hole.

Baluster Measurements Required:

• Length

• Angle: Only for the angled section of your stairs.

Advantages:

• Quick to install.

• No drilled holes in handrail.

• Secure and no rattling.

• Easy to remove.

Disadvantages:

• Requires precise length & angle measurements.

• Expensive.

• Screw is visible.

• For Solid or Hollow With Metal Insert Balusters only.

There are four installation methods:

1. Pin Top Installation — Standard method. Drill holes in the floor and underside of handrail, then secure with epoxy. Only for Hollow Pin Top Balusters.

2. Screw-Down Shoes — Easiest method. No hole drilling required. Works with any baluster type.

3. Screw Into Wood Handrail — Most secure. Drill countersunk through-holes in the top of the baluster. Drill holes in the floor only. Only for Solid and Hollow With Metal Insert Balusters.

4. Screw Into Metal Bar — Most secure. For metal bar that sits under a wood handrail. Drill and tap holes in the top of the baluster. Drill holes in the floor only. Only for Solid and Hollow With Metal Insert Balusters.

We offer a wide variety of designs:

• Plain

• Rectangle (single, double, 2-line, 4-line, large, x-large)

• Oval (standard and large)

• Tuning Fork (U-shaped split oval)

• Collar / Knuckle (single, double, triple collar)

• Basket / Bird Cage (single basket, double basket with twist)

• Twist (single twist, double twist)

• Hammered (single ball hammer, double ball hammer)

• Flower

• Spoon (single and double)

• Gold / Silver Accent Balusters (male and female styles)

When ordering Solid Balusters, you'll select:

1. Installation Method — Screw into Wood Handrail, Screw into Metal Bar, or No Installation Method

2. Powder Coat Color — Choose from 11 standard colors

3. Length — Select your desired length in quarter-inch increments (e.g., 30.00", 30.25", 30.50"... up to 44")

4. Stair Section — Flat/Level (0°) or Angled (specify your angle)

5. Quantity

Yes! Don't hesitate to inquire about any custom-made products you need. We'll work with you to see if we can fulfill your project. Contact us with your requirements.

Yes, all products excluding hollow pin top products are available in raw (non-powder coated) form. If you don't see it listed on the website, contact us.

You can reach us by:

• Phone (Canada): 647-354-5506

• Phone (USA & International): 1-866-335-9068

• Email: orders@misterbaluster.com

• Live chat on our website

We communicate in all languages using AI translation. Over the phone, we speak English, Vietnamese, Mandarin and Cantonese.

Yes — many standard sizes on the market are compatible with our products. Contact us for more details.

The Easy Install Kit (EZ-01) includes 10 plain 1/2" square shaft balusters and 20 screw-down shoes — everything you need to get started without drilling holes into your handrail or treads.

What's included:

• 10 Plain 1/2" Hollow Square Shaft Balusters (no holes drilled)

• 20 Screw-Down Shoes — you choose the mix of Flat vs. Swivel shoes (total always equals 20)

Shoe mix options range from "20 Flat + 0 Swivel" to "0 Flat + 20 Swivel" in any combination. You need 2 shoes per baluster (top and bottom), so 20 shoes covers all 10 balusters.

Which shoes to choose:

• Flat Screw Down Shoes — Use these on flat (level) surfaces like the top of a tread or the bottom of a level handrail. They sit flush against a flat surface.

• Swivel Screw Down Shoes — Use these on angled sections (stairs). The swivel mechanism adjusts to the angle of the staircase so the shoe sits flat against the tread even when the baluster is angled.

Typical recommendation:

• For a fully flat railing (deck, balcony): 20 Flat + 0 Swivel

• For a fully angled staircase: 0 Flat + 20 Swivel (or a mix if some balusters are on landing)

• For a mix of stairs and landing: Choose based on how many balusters go on each section

You can also customize:

• Powder Coat Color — all 11 colors available

• Baluster Length — 30" to 44" (custom lengths accepted)

Order here: https://misterbaluster.com/products/easy-install-balusters-mounting-kit-no-holes-drilled

The length you need depends on your staircase setup and installation method. Here's how to determine it:

1. Measure the distance from the top of the tread (or floor) to the underside of the handrail at the baluster location.

2. Account for your installation method:

• Pin Top — Add approximately 1/2" to your measurement. The pin at the top inserts into a hole drilled in the underside of the handrail, so the baluster itself is slightly shorter than the full gap.

• Screw Into Wood Handrail — The baluster sits flush against the bottom of the handrail and is secured with a screw from above. Order the exact measured distance.

• Screw Into Metal Bar — Similar to wood handrail, the baluster meets the metal bar and is screwed in. Order the exact measured distance.

3. Account for shoes: If using base shoes (pitch blocks), subtract the height of the shoe from your measurement since the shoe adds height at the bottom.

4. For angled (stair) sections: Measure the longest side of the baluster — from the tread to the handrail along the angled path. We will angle-cut the top (and/or bottom) to match your stair angle.

Important tips:

• Measure each baluster location individually — staircases often have slight variations.

• We recommend ordering a test sample first to verify your measurements: https://misterbaluster.com/products/baluster-sample

• You can enter any custom measurement in 1/8" increments for a precise fit.

• Refer to our ordering guide for step-by-step instructions: https://misterbaluster.com/pages/ordering-guide

For minor scratches:

1. Lightly sand the scratch with fine grit sandpaper.

2. Clean the area.

3. Apply matching spray paint in thin, even coats.

4. Let dry completely between coats.

For Flat/Matte Black balusters, we sell a matching spray paint on our website.

Powder coating is durable but can still be scratched. For small scratches, you can touch up your balusters using spray paint. For balusters powder coated in Flat/Matte Black (our most popular color), we recommend and sell a matching spray paint on our website.

Use a high-quality, two-part construction epoxy or an adhesive rated for metal-to-wood bonding. Recommended products: PC-7, Loctite PL Premium, or Gorilla Two-Part Epoxy. Avoid standard wood glue or silicone — they will not hold metal securely.

Yes, we offer free online design consultation.

If your balusters are on a staircase (not a flat/level section), you'll need to specify a stair angle so we can cut the top of the baluster at the correct angle to sit flush against your angled handrail.

How to measure your stair angle:

1. Place a level horizontally against your handrail or along the stair nosings.

2. Use a digital angle finder (protractor) to measure the angle between the level and the handrail slope.

3. Most residential staircases fall between 30° and 38°.

Alternatively:

• If you still have your old balusters, measure the angle on one of them and send it to us.

• Use a smartphone app (many free level/angle apps are available).

• Contact us for a free consultation — we can help you determine the angle.

Angle options:

• Most products support 25° to 54° in 1° increments.

• The Baluster Test Sample supports 25° to 45° in 1° increments.

• Select "Flat" if your balusters are on a level surface (deck, balcony, landing).

If you're unsure, we strongly recommend ordering a test sample first: https://misterbaluster.com/products/baluster-sample

Generally, the maximum gap between balusters must be less than 4 inches (the 4-inch sphere rule). This applies to the space between adjacent balusters as well as between a baluster and a newel post or wall. Check your local building codes for specific requirements in your area.

If a baluster is too long, you can:

1. Cut it shorter using a powered cutting tool or angle grinder (works for both solid and hollow balusters).

2. Drill the hole in the floor or handrail deeper to accommodate the extra length.

If you don't check the "Change Length and Colour" checkbox, your Hollow Pin Top baluster will ship in the default configuration: 44" length in Flat/Matte Black. This is the fastest option since these are stock items and ship immediately.

If your baluster is only slightly too short (around 1/4"), you can insert wood or plastic shims into the hole to slightly raise the baluster. Apply construction-grade epoxy in the floor hole to further secure it.

In most cases, yes. If your existing wood handrail is in good condition, you can install iron balusters into it using the "Screw Into Wood Handrail" or "Pin Top" method. If you previously had wood balusters, you may need to fill the old holes before installing iron balusters.

Make sure the shoe matches the exact size and shape of your baluster shaft (e.g., 1/2" Square shoe for 1/2" Square baluster). Using the wrong size will not work. If the sizes match but there's still an issue, contact us at orders@misterbaluster.com.

Most building codes require that balusters be spaced so that a 4-inch sphere cannot pass through any opening between them. This is a safety requirement to prevent children from getting stuck. Always check your local building code, as requirements may vary by jurisdiction.

Our shoes are designed to fit standard iron baluster shaft sizes (1/2" square, 5/8" square, 9/16" round, 5/8" round). If another company's balusters use the same standard shaft dimensions, our shoes should be compatible. However, we cannot guarantee fit with other brands. Contact us if you're unsure.

We stock and supply:

• Solid Square Bars: 1/2", 5/8", 3/4"

• Solid Round Bars: 1/2", 9/16", 5/8", 3/4"

• Sometimes in stock: various round, square, and rectangular tubes

Contact us if you need a specific material not listed.

Yes! If you're unsure about your length and angle measurements, order one or more individual unfinished (raw steel) baluster samples before placing your full order. We'll custom cut and drill it for you to test the fit on your staircase. Samples are quick to produce and ship, and can help you avoid costly mistakes.

Yes! Since we are located in the Greater Toronto Area, we have access to many local suppliers with discounts. If you need a product we don't currently stock, contact us and we can source it locally and ship it to you.

Yes! The "Screw Into Metal Bar" installation method is designed for use with a metal sub-rail/bar that sits underneath a wood handrail. If you have a fully metal railing system, contact us to discuss your specific setup.

Yes, balusters need to be cut to length to ensure they fit properly with your handrail. You can provide us with your measurements and we will cut the balusters for you. If you prefer to cut them yourself, you can use a powered cutting tool or angle grinder.

Yes, if you need the Harmonized System (HS) Code for any product — for customs, import paperwork, or other trade purposes — contact us and we can provide it.

You can re-cut the angle yourself using a powered cutting tool or angle grinder. We recommend ordering a sample first if you're unsure about your angle measurements.

Position the newel post and use a level to ensure it is perfectly plumb. Mark the mounting holes through the base plate onto the floor or tread, then drill pilot holes. Secure the post with heavy-duty structural lag screws or concrete anchors (if mounting to concrete). Finally, slide the decorative base cover down to conceal the plate and hardware.

Handrails must be between 865 mm and 1,070 mm (34" to 42") high, measured vertically from the leading edge (nosing) of the stair tread.

The height requirements match residential standards (865 mm to 1,070 mm). However, commercial staircases often require guardrails of at least 1,070 mm (42") if the drop is significant, so the handrail may be mounted onto the taller guard structure.

Building codes measure this by vertical height, not horizontal run. A staircase cannot exceed a maximum vertical rise of 3.7 m (12' 2") between floor levels or landings.

Replacing balusters is generally considered a cosmetic repair and does not require a building permit, as long as you are only swapping the balusters and not altering the structural framing, staircase width, or handrail geometry.

No, we don't currently offer gift cards.

It depends on your installation method:

• Pin Top — You can use a screw to wedge the baluster tighter in the hole, or reapply epoxy.

• Screw Into Wood Handrail / Metal Bar — These rarely come loose, but if they do, apply epoxy in the bottom hole or remove and re-tighten the top screw.

It depends on your design preferences. You can replace your existing balusters without replacing the handrail.

Office: 8 AM – 4 PM weekdays, 8 AM – 12 PM Saturdays.

Online Chat: Typically available 8 AM – 10 PM, 7 days a week.