October 2006		Volume 1, Issue 4

L.J. Smith offers two special newel posts (LJ-3513PT & LJ-4013PT) that are designed for adding strength to long continuous stair rakes. A pin newel would typically be placed in the middle of the rake on any straight flight that has 14 or more risers. In this application, a handrail fitting is not necessary for these newels due to their “pin” top design.

These same pin newels are also used as starting newels under our vertical volutes.

L.J. Smith's sales team offers customized Product Knowledge Meetings geared toward contractors, builders, distributor staff/sales personnel. These meetings range from 30 minutes to 3 hours and include hands-on installation tips and techniques, as well as real assistance in getting the right products ordered for each job on the first attempt.

Call your L.J. Smith rep. to set up informational meetings to make your employees or your customers experts in selling and understanding stair parts. Includes tips on installation and a great line of tools for the installer.

A stairway inside of an entryway is typically a focal point when guests arrive. If the foyer area is somewhat tight it is important to select stairway components that will make the area seem more open. There are a few ways to achieve a greater sense of openness but advance planning must first be incorporated into the rough stair framing. The tread ends should be open rather than closed (kneewall) and the balustrade should have an open airy appearance to add a sense of spaciousness to the area. Selecting a slim iron or pin top 1 ¼” baluster over a heavier square top or 1 ¾” baluster would be recommended. An over the post balustrade would also be preferred to a post to post system, only if the area allows for sufficient traffic space around the starting step bullnose(s). These are just a few balustrade style ideas to help open up the tight area, but it is very beneficial to plan earlier in the house framing stages to also incorporate an opening in the foyer area that extends to the second floor and/or adding a window to allow daylight to flood the entry level.


Ever wonder why we enclose a tiny cheese grater in the hardware with every utility newel??? We call it Mr. Grip™ (LJ-3074). This perforated metal strip is used to securely attach the starting fitting to the starting newel.


If you put off doing an easy job, it only makes the job harder. If you put off doing a hard job, it makes it impossible.







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