New staircase help please

[SusieWinwood]

I've a DIY teaser for you here!

I've been without a bannister/handrail for ions now and the time has come to replace it.

I've a few problems before we do this! :?

In his infinite wisdom, the long gone ex sawed the bottom post down to half its size, and sawed the whole of the handrail and the wood underneath it so all we have left is the stump of the post and the bottom where the wood staircase went. (image where the spindles would go - well this was a solid piece of wood).

I believe that the minimum spindle width we can get it 32mm, the base where the wood went is 25mm :? the only option I can see is to remove the bottom stump Question 1 - how not sure as its seems to be joined onto the bottom step, and Question 2 find some sort of wood that can be used instead of spindles, to completely encase the stairs. Another problem is where the wood was has been Polyfillered in so I image that would have to be dug out for the wood the lie in?

If this makes any sense whatsoever, I'd appreciate any info as to how to go about this! :D

Susie

[thedoctor]

In all honesty Suzie you are going to need considerable carpentry skills to get this done safely. A new section of newel post can be joined to "the stump" but its a difficult tennon, or dowel joint. The side of the stairs (string) can be made wider by planting a timber on giving you the extra width for standard size spindles which can be fixed by putting packing pieces in between them. See our project on Stairbuilding and you will see images of how a staircase is put together and some books on how to do it. Even experienced carpenters regard staircases as difficult work so its best to get some carpentry knowlege under your belt which will stand you in good stead for all manner of jobs. See also our projects on timber joints and look at the basic tools you will need.