First thanks a million to all the help and suggestions I got from you folks. I am wrapping up my stair project. I had to take a break from the stairs and install my hardwod flooring in my upper bedrooms and hallways.

The question I have is regarding the baluster spacing between my stairs and balconies. I have 2 sets of stairs not joining one another and two balconies. One set of stairs has an 8" run in which the 2 balusters per tread were placed on 4" centers. The balcony for that stairs will also have a 4" center to center baluster run.

My second stairs to balcony is what I am questioning about, the run is 9.5" and I have placed the balusters on 4.75" center to center. Both sets of stairs have the balusters installed in place. Where I am concerned about is the balcony which is coming off the stairs having a 4" center to center layout. the layout works out well from newel to wall. Is it uncommon to have the stairs at one baluster spacing and the balcony at another, or should I have them flowing in the same spacing measurement. The codes in my area allow up to 6" max center to center.

I am only doing a dry run with the balconies before I permenantly mount them in.

Sorry for being long winded!

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Ummm, this is the hardwood flooring installer forum. Not too many of us install newels, balusters or handrails. In my state, CA., I am not allowed to do this work unless I get licensed for it, which is different than a C-15 floor covering license. I suggest you click on over to Fine HomeBuilding.

That is normal, just stay within code. The maximum OC spacing depends on what baluster you are using, the open space between is what the inspectors check.

http://www.stairways.org/pdf/2003%20Sta ... SCREEN.pdf

Thanks for the response Jerry, you have been very helpful, along with the other folks.


MJ