Installation Guide
Installation Instructions:
Fixed Base Box Newel (page 1 of 2)
Thank you for your purchase of Surewood-LNL fixed base box newel post! Before you begin, please note:
• These instructions require some general construction experience.
• Exact placement of newels on your staircase is not specified.
• Fixed base box newel posts are for interior use only.
• ALWAYS check local building codes prior to installation as codes can vary depending on your location.
• ALWAYS practice safe handling and employment of all tools and materials.
• Surewood-LNL newel bases utilize a plywood substrate to ensure optimal stability. NEVER pin nail through plywood
as this will cause cracking. ALWAYS pre-drill before screwing and use construction adhesive when applying the base.
• Read all instructions before starting installation.
Wood Storage Disclaimer
Surewood-LNL fixed base box newel posts are partially constructed, unfinished wood products. All components have
been stabilized by carefully maintaining moisture content before, during and after the manufacturing process. Because
variations in moisture, temperature and light can damage wood and/or make wood shrink or swell, we recommend storing
in the following environment: 55º F - 85º F temperature range, 40% - 55% relative humidity, out of direct sunlight and with
no dust, dirt or oil present. In addition, do not place on concrete (moisture from concrete can be absorbed into packaging
and product which can cause product damage and/or failure). Surewood-LNL assumes no responsibility for product
damage and/or failure which does not follow these guidelines. This applies to both stored (warehousing or jobsite) and to
installed, unfinished products.
Wood Finishing Disclaimer
Surewood-LNL fixed base box newel posts are for interior use only. After removal from packaging, care must be taken to
ensure newels are not exposed to dust, dirt, oils, moisture, and heat as any of these factors can impact the wood surface
quality and compromise the finishing process. Lightly sand all surfaces and remove dust before finishing. Follow all wood
dust safety warnings and always wear a dust respirator when sanding. Follow stain manufacturer’s directions to
achieve desired results.
Surface Mounting Instructions
1. Remove provided mounting block from base of box newel and, at approximately 3” from bottom, drill 1/4” holes at 45º
angle on opposite sides (figure 1). Offset holes from block centerline to ensure holes do not overlap (figure 2).
2. Determine finished rail height and measure, mark and cut bottom of newel post base to accommodate. To minimize
tearout, pre-score all cut lines with a razor knife and use a sharp saw blade (figure 3).
3. Determine baluster centerline and newel mounting location (figure 6 - page 2). Apply construction adhesive to all
mounting surfaces and then bolt mounting block to floor and check for level and square - loosen or tighten bolts to
adjust (figure 4).
4. Apply construction adhesive to on all four sides of mounting block and slide
newel on. Drill 2 countersunk holes on each side of newel approximately 6”
from newel bottom and 2” newel corners (figure 5). Secure with wood screws,
then plug holes and sand.
figure 1
figure 5
figure 2 figure 3
figure 4
side view
mounting block
countersink
1-1/2” - 2”
7/16” 7/16”
3” 3”
1/4”
side view
mounting block
offset holes
from centerline
newel
base
measure,
mark, score
and cut
apply construction
adhesive to all
mounting
surfaces
bolt mounting
block to floor
apply construction
adhesive to all
sides of
mounting
block
slide newel onto
mounting block
6”
2” 2”
distributed by Surewood-LNL • www.surewoodlnl.com