Step 55 - Fit spindles
Preparation can now be made to fit the spindles.
With the aid of a spirit level, place the spindle vertically against the handrail and baserail (a). Judging the vertical position of the spindle by eye should be sufficient (top and bottom square section of spindle equal in length). Using a pencil, gently scribe a mark where the handrail and baserail meet the spindle (b). Measure the depth of the handrail slot, and mark the cutting line above by this amount (c). Measure the depth of the baserail slot and mark the bottom line down by this amount.
(Measure the slots perpendicular to the rails, and the spindle perpendicular to the original marked line). Transfer the line all the way around with the aid of a square (d). Cut the spindle to length
Step 56 - Mark spindles
Once you are happy with the length of the spindle, use it as a template and mark and cut the spindle to length. Check how this spindle fits before continuing to mark and cut all the other spindles. Leave the fitting of the “template” spindle until last.
Step 57 - Cut fillets to length
The spindles are spaced using fillets (fig. 20). These fillets are supplied in one length with the rails and will require cutting to the correct length.
The fillets, with the exception of the first and last, should be cut to the same length, mitred at one end.
The Wonkee Donkee calculator will give you all the dimensions you need, including the fillet length and the quantity of spindles, speeding up the whole process.
If you’re not using the calculator, a general rule of thumb is two spindles per tread, less one for each newel fitted partly on a step. Remembering that a 100mm diameter sphere must NOT be able to pass through any gap. Actual spacing will be determined by the stair pitch and string length.
Step 58 - Install spindles
Fix the first fillets into place on the baserail and handrail. These are likely to be different from the other fillets. Place the spindle tight up against these and check that the spindle is vertical. Adjust the fillets as necessary. Once everything is correct, pin the fillets into place. Apply a little adhesive to the ends of the spindle and fix with a pin into the handrail groove. The head of the pin should be placed so that it will be covered by the fillet. Repeat until all spindles and fillets have been secured in place. The first and last fillets may need altering to fit over the brackets.
Step 59 - Newel caps and cover caps
Once all the Spindles are in place, apply adhesive to the Newel Cap spigot and secure to the top of the newel. Gently tap home if required. Apply adhesive to all cover Caps and fix into place.
