New newel or not to new newel?

[origami]

This is what I'm dealing with. Anyone tackle a similar project before?

The post is 70mm x 70mm which will be replaced or extended/made good with a 90mm x 90mm post. I'm considering several approaches but wondering if bolting flat steel bars may be the easiest work around. Steps 1 and 2 are giving me headache! Any other opinions?

Thanks!

 

[MisterG]

I had exactly the same challenge, and that pic could almost be of my hallway.

Unless you are really good at carpentry, I wouldn't try to replace as that base is probably integral to the staircase.

I cut the old post level and I used a 25mm dowel to attach a new post cut to the right length and lots of glue. It is rock solid once the rail was attached.

Cheers

G

 

[origami]

Thanks G

I did consider larger dowels but as it's softwood, wasn't sure whether it was sufficient for long term lateral strength. Surely they weren't fitted like this?

I've drawn up a plan and was considering bolting the lot together with a mild steel bar. Is this overboard?

I've also still got 10mm to add on to the existing post all the way around to make up to 90mm x 90mm unless I find a 70mm x 70mm post. I thought this might also help structurally but will probably be some work scribing in the string, treads and risers.

 

[Doggit]

This kind of staircase was often just a straight post, so any woodyard should be able to shape and supply a newl post to the correct size. if you can cut and trim the old and new post to your design, then use a damned good wood glue, and then finish it off with a cuple of dowels.