I've got 2 newels (non supporting - it's an 'L' shape ballustrade on the first floor). I have bought some new drop-in newels with a 50mm dowel on the base, so I need to cut the existing newels off and drill a 50mm hole into the newell at the correct depth. My questions are as follows:
1) Cutting and shaping the existing newels:
- what is the best way to cut these straight (they are fixed in the vertical position) - mark the right angles and use a hand saw? - or can I use a circular saw? (900mm square) When cut what is the best way to create the chamfers? - surform and sander?
2) Cutting the 50mm hole
I have a standard hand drill and 50mm circle cutter (circular steel ring with teeth type) - is this the best way to cut the 50mm hole? I'm also concerned about not getting it plum? I expect it will have a little movement but I am using a cross wedge in the bottom of the newells, (http://www.spindlesandstairparts.co.uk/fixingsolutions.htm)
so once they have been put in they should be tight.
Any advice appreciated - if you can advise me of any tools I may need to buy then that would also be appreciated.
thanks
1) Cutting and shaping the existing newels:
- what is the best way to cut these straight (they are fixed in the vertical position) - mark the right angles and use a hand saw? - or can I use a circular saw? (900mm square) When cut what is the best way to create the chamfers? - surform and sander?
2) Cutting the 50mm hole
I have a standard hand drill and 50mm circle cutter (circular steel ring with teeth type) - is this the best way to cut the 50mm hole? I'm also concerned about not getting it plum? I expect it will have a little movement but I am using a cross wedge in the bottom of the newells, (http://www.spindlesandstairparts.co.uk/fixingsolutions.htm)
so once they have been put in they should be tight.
Any advice appreciated - if you can advise me of any tools I may need to buy then that would also be appreciated.
thanks