Spindles, also called balusters, are a simple but effective way to change your home. And, there’s nothing more timeless than wood balusters.
But how do you pick what works in your home? After all, not everyone has an eye for interior design. Well, there are three specific elements you need to examine. Once you do that, you’ll have a much better idea of the type you want.
Wondering about what those elements are? Walk you through them.
The trick to picking anything related to interior design is to examine what blends well with your home. It’s no different in the case of spindles.
So, here’s what you need to consider:
Custom vs. stock designs
Most contractors offering wood balusters will have a few stock designs. Understanding what your space needs will help you pick the right one.
Turned wood is an excellent option to lend your home some old-fashioned charm. However, it works differently depending on the size and width. For instance, an outdoor deck will take to a broader design much better than anything else.
Conversely, if you decide on thicker spindles for a staircase railing, it could look bulky. A better alternative would be to opt for a slimmer 2×2 square top.
If no stock options work for you, go for a custom design and size. There are plenty of pre-set styles you could choose from, including:
- Regency
- Hamptons
- Charleston
- Contemporary
Better yet, ditch all of that and go for something whimsical.
Material type
The material for your wood balusters will determine not only the overall aesthetic but also the price. However, there are a few nuances to it.
For example, red oak has better longevity and withstands warping well. Still, being expensive, you may not want to install oak spindles in an outdoor space. Pine would be a better alternative here. It’s cheaper, relatively durable, and offers some resistance to impact damage. That could be useful, considering outdoor areas are exposed to weather elements.
If you’re still confused, remember this: Space decides the material.
Milling and coating
The contractor you choose will have a significant impact on how your baluster looks. And that’s primarily due to the milling techniques they employ. Some of the most commonly used milling styles are:
- Rope twist
- Carved
- Fluted
Fluted or rope-twisted spindles can give any space a more intricate look. However, if you want a more minimal aesthetic for your home, go for something straightforward like plain milling.
Additionally, the coating will determine how distinctive the final look is. Lacquer, stained, or dye finishes will always be more eye-catching. Still, there’s nothing wrong with plain varnish. Some of the most classic designs have that same coating.
Time to make a decision
Before settling on anything, looking at all the available options is essential.
More importantly, consider what you want to accomplish. Are you trying to match rails or posts? Simple questions like that could give you a better idea of which kind of baluster you want for your home. It’d also help if you gave the contractor an idea of where you plan on getting the railing installed. That way, they could help you decide as well.
And, if you find yourself torn between two specific design types, take the time to settle on one. That’ll save you from regretting your choice later. Remember, getting it all redone can be more expensive than installing them in the first place.
