Spindle Spacing Calculator
Calculate the number of spindles and spacing for your deck or stair railing.
Railing Dimensions
Results
Enter railing dimensions and click Calculate to see results.
How to Use
- Enter the total length of your railing
- Enter the width of your spindles
- Enter the maximum spacing allowed between spindles (typically 4" for building code)
- Enter the width of your posts
- Enter the number of posts in your railing
- Click Calculate to get the number of spindles and spacing
About Spindle Spacing Calculator
This calculator helps you determine the number of spindles needed for your railing and the spacing between them.
Building Code Requirements:
- Maximum spacing between spindles: 4 inches (10 cm)
- Minimum railing height: 36 inches (91 cm) for decks, 34-38 inches (86-97 cm) for stairs
- Spindles must be able to withstand 200 lbs of force
Formula:
Number of Spindles = (Railing Length - (Number of Posts × Post Width)) ÷ (Spindle Width + Maximum Spacing)
Actual Spacing = (Railing Length - (Number of Posts × Post Width) - (Number of Spindles × Spindle Width)) ÷ (Number of Spindles + 1)