I know this question isn't exactly a flooring question but I know that many of you have had to reinstall railings after flooring jobs. I removed a railing at the top of my stairs inorder to install the flooring underneath for a nice clean look. Now I am ready to reinstall the railing. The post at the end of the run had a metal plate in addition to a lag screw securing it to the floor. The metal plate wasn't an issue since it was covered by the carpet. However I obviously do not want to use the metal plate on top of the hardwood but I do not know if the lag screw will sufficiently anchor the post! I was considering some pocket screws at the base of the post which I could then plug and stain, but I would like to hear suggestions from some of you guys.

Drill 2 3/4" holes into the sides of the newell about and inch or so from the bottom, (you can also go bigger to give you more room in the hole) make them about and inch deep or so. get yourself some 3/4" plugs (or make them from a dowel) then use some heavy duty 4" screws or lag screws and drill them into the holes at enough of an angle to go down deep into the floor, I would predrill a hole for these first. Make sure you set them deep enough and far enough back into the hole so the plug fits in..then glue and plug and sand and your golden..A newell is required to take 250LBS of outward pressure to pass building code. this method if done properly will get you there.

you can also buy a newel anchor like this one...very easy to install, helps plumb the post too by alternating the tightening of the screws..

http://buystairparts.reachlocal.net/Pro ... =72&cat=32

I use hidden Keylock fasteners.

http://www.stairwarehouse.com/3005-key- ... tener.html


They are a pain because each plate is mortised into floor, but no fasteners are exposed and they stay very tight. The lag goes into the bottom of the newel post.

thanks, for the suggestions. Is there a retailer that you know of that carries the keylock fasteners or is that something that I would need to order. I would like to stay away from fasteners that require moldings if I can help it. Thanks again.

I got 3 Lowe's stores where I live, but only 1 of them stocks that item, go figure. Also TheContractorYard. Installed properly they are stout.

Thanks all for the help with the railing it is up and solid.