Chris Whalen

Chris Whalen has spent his career working in Missoula, Mont., as a finish carpenter and project manager. When not swinging his hammer, Chris enjoys fly-fishing, rummaging for old tools, listening to his iPod, and going for a spin in his MGB. His partners in Black Mountain Company lure him back during the week to oversee construction projects and pound more nails.

Video Series: Install a Stair Rail
Constructing attractive, safe, and code-compliant staircase handrails takes careful planning, but is a task that anyone with basic carpentry skills and a well thought-out plan can tackle.
Retrofitting a Skirtboard
Watch carpenter Chris Whalen as he devises a creative solution to a botched skirtboard.
Install a Stair Rail Series: Stair Balustrade Installation, Part 2
Learn how to connect the top rail to the newel post and balusters
Install a Stair Rail Series: Stair Balustrade Installation, Part 1
See the correct way to locate and secure balusters for a pleasing and professional look
Install a Stair Rail Series: Installing a Guardrail and Baluster Assembly
See how to remove an old railing and reconstruct it, reusing using existing parts when possible
Install a Stair Rail Series: Newel-Post Installation and Tune Up
Learn how to position and secure a newel post with recessed hardware
Tool Test: Portable Thickness Planers
The best tools offer precision board-surfacing without sacrificing convenience and durability.
How to Trim a Basement Window
When trimming windows in thick walls, you need wide extension jambs and a deep stool.
Add Character with a Box-Beam Ceiling
Hollow beams transform a room’s level of detail while making it easy to integrate lighting and run wiring.

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