Expert: Joseph G. Swallow - 2/2/2009

Question
i really want to replace my white wooden balusters w/iron or hollow iron balusters but the quotes I'm getting are so high ($2,000 to $3,500). I only have 46 balusters total. I'm thinking of painting them black to get the "effect" of iron.  Do you think this will work? I've also considered purchasing the iron balusters online and replacing them myself. I live in the West Houston area if you know of any reputable companies in the area. Thanks again for your assitance.  It's greatly appreciated.

Answer
Usually to install 46 iron balusters would take an average carpenter about one business day or 8 hours.  Based on your local labor rates, that should should give you an idea.  In the Portland, Oregon metro area though would be a labor cost of about $400.

Painting balusters black has been done and it is due to the iron market, yet customers who prefer wood.  As an example, we have an Amish company that we work with who will pre-paint wood baluster white or black.  Whether to go wood or iron, that would be a customer preference.

Purchasing balusters online and installing them yourself is a good option.  All you would need is a portable bandsaw or a power miter box with a metal cutting blade, and about two tubes of black construction adhesive.  The rest is time.  If this becomes your choice, let me know and I can provide you with links to .pdf installation guides.

We've sold to a lot of do-it-yourselfers in the Houston area, but I am not sure of any carpenters.  If you call Mason's Mill and Lumber in Houston at (713) 462-6975, they may be able to give you the name of a carpenter.