Hello what to install a 45 mitered return on my basement handrail, I got a kreg pocket screw set for a b-day and wanted to use it for the return. Problem is the handrail is kinda oval about 3″ wide with a flat bottom that is only about 1.5″ wide. Is this too narrow for a pocket screw or a pair of pocket screws?
Dan
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Replies
1-1/2" is wide enough for a pocket screw, they only take up 3/8" of space.
Matt- Woods favorite carpenter.
A pocket screw will work, but then you'll have to plug it.Overkill.
I generally glue the miters with 2P10 glue. If you don't have 2P10, you should get some, but you can use wood glue and pin it while it dries.
That's not much to hold a handrail return to the wall. Unless you're talking about letting it hang in the air, then I can't say since I've never done that.
Miter your returns and carefully mark the wall. Prior to glueing the returns on, drill the ends to accept a timberlock 5" screw. Screw to wall, then glue up the rail. The hidden screw is centered on the handrail as it should be to provide the best support.
Takes a few adjustments, but the results are much better and eliminates a few handrail brackets.
Beer was created so carpenters wouldn't rule the world.
On a typical basement railing, the railing is totally supported by brackets and the returned ends are generally very short cantilevers off the brackets. Your timberlok idea sounds slick, but not necessary for the situation at hand...I think.
"typical basement railing"
Nope, we usually don't build "average" or "typical". *chuckle*
Once you've done a few returns with the timberlocs it's hard to go back to the squishy feeling of a cantelevered return.
Good building!
Beer was created so carpenters wouldn't rule the world.
I use a long dowel and glue to the same effect.
They can't get your Goat if you don't tell them where it is hidden.
I use 5" GRK trimhead screws on my returns. Sturdy without the girth of the Timberlock.
As you can see, there are multiple ways to do the same job.
The short answer, yes the pocket screws with glue will be fine. You can hide the pockets with plugs.
How you attach the return to the wall or not, is your choice.
I've "cantilevered" the return if the bracket is close, I've back blocked/screwed the return if needed, I've doweled to a stud.... do whatever it takes to do the job, looks good and is safe.