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We just noticed that one of our staircase balusters is partially cracked and not aligned like it should be. The orange tape in the picture is just to better indicate the broken baluster.

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Here is what the top and bottom look like:

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What's the best thing to do here? I have a 3 year old who sometimes grabs onto these as they come down the stairs, and I want it to be safe for him. Watching some youtube videos, I've seen people insert dowel rods in them (but only after they are fully broken). I've seen people fabricate entire new ones (I don't have the skills and time for that). Is it possible to strengthen it without breaking it further? Any resources that might make me a little more comfortable in how these particular ones come in and out, or how I might even try to straighten it?

Edit: Adding picture of nail at the top and the bottom near the Newel post. Nail at top:

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Bottom near Newel post: enter image description here

gammapoint
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1 Answers1

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If you look carefully, the balusters are primarily held in by thin blocks of wood that are cut between the balusters called "filets" they can be nailed in, glued in or both. Usually only nailed in. With a broad edged tool like a putty knfe they can be pulled out without breaking. I did an answer on a more barbaric way to remove them, when the owner was going to finish the stair differently.

How to remove stair spindles from rails

This will get the baluster out. The baluster can be separated the rest of the way by pulling either end directly away from each other, gluing and pressing the 2 ends back together again. This is an oversimplification. This answer was mainly for the removalof the balusters.

You may be able to find a compatible one online sowhere to replace it.

Jack
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