We are completely rebuilding a front (open) porch for a house that was built in 1920.
We were going to use some sort of turned balusters, but the client has asked about using sawn balusters instead. The house style is pretty nondescript, so we would have a lot of latitude in coming up with a design.
However, I could sure use some pics, suggestions or websites to get the design juices rolling here. There are a gazillion different styles, and if I could look through some, I am sure we could come up with something that is doable and fits the house.
I have a full scale cabinet making shop, so tooling is not a problem.
Because of the severe climate (MN), we are trimming the porch out in Azek and MiraTec.
I would probably use 4/4 Miratec for the balusters, with the smooth side facing out. I would try to run a sander over the rough side to see if I can smooth it out some.
Thanks.
Replies
1950's house. 2000 porch addn. Cedar.
Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.
Quittin' Time
I like those railings a lot. Looks like a straight rip, with about 1 to l 1/2" space between each baluster -- right?
correct, flat 7/8's cedar ripped to maybe 2-1/2" and crowded together. Meant to match earlier job for the hot tub. They wanted medium privacy below the belt.Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.
Quittin' Time
Nothing compares to seeing things in person.
I would suggest a drive
Personally----I am lucky. I just got back from visiting some relatives in Bloomsburg, PA.
I like to use the opportunity to visit some of those old hill towns in PA that slowly strangled for a hundred years or so----and then were rejuvenated in the 80's and 90's--------lot's and lots of porches and entire houses that haven't been remuddled into blandness-----fine examples of sawn balusters----a lot with some outrageous curves----ya won't be limmited to simple straight pieces.
I spent about 5 hours on thurs. and fri slowly walking Bloomsburg, PA street by street-----and a couple hours at lunchtime on sat. looking over Brookville,PA.
with any luck there will be some similar towns within range of YOU that you can check out sometime-----if not for this project then for inspiration for future projects.
BTW---I have added to my carpenters pencil collection in Bloomsburg-----but the local lumber yard was closed at noon in Brookville----so I couldn't add to my collection there-------wait untill next year.
Good luck,Stephen
I googled these up real quick. If they aren't your style, maybe they are of interest anyway.
http://www.oldhouseweb.com/stories/Detailed/10357.shtml
http://www.touchstonewoodworks.com/flatsawnbalusters.htm
https://gingerbreadman.securesites.com/shop_secure.cfm/TID/13
https://gingerbreadman.securesites.com/shop_secure.cfm/SID/106
http://shop.store.yahoo.com/vintagewoodworks/sawnbalusters.html