Stairs hole enclosure ideas

[lennyzx11]

Never even thought of Stake pockets or turnbuckles.
What a good idea.

Closing the railing off solid with plywood would allow me to put something in front of it like my mitersaw.

I’m now debating on covering part of the hole up to make a flat surface over the stairwell. Keeping head Room of course. This would give me another bench to work on or place bench top tools on.

 

[LS Tractor Owner]

You could use a combo of black pipe for the balusters, 2x4 for the top and bottom plates. Drill holes every 4 inches o/c To insert the pipe. Screw the bottom plate down with a couple of lags, the 90 degree corner will provide stability. A bit more decorative, will also allow light onto the stairs and air to flow.

 

[MossRoad]

If you put a workbench in the areas where the tools are in the picture, just be sure you can't push anything off the back of the bench and down into the stairs. Could get damaged, or damage the stairs, or land on someone, etc... I think that's why you mentioned solid plywood, but wanted to clarify.

A solid wall in stake pockets sounds good. Just be sure it's not too heavy to maneuver in and out of place. Maybe a couple narrower sections if needed.

 

[lennyzx11]

So I cheated slightly. I made the short side and bought a premade piece for the long side. It is held with lag bolts and wood screws but can be removed pretty quick if needed I believe.

Hard to see but an old plexiglass storm window is leaning against the railing behind the saw and vacuum to stop things falling down on the stairs.
Now on to the water pipe handrail.