Predrill your nail holes with the same size nails or a slightly smaller diameter drill bit.
I have installed oak newel posts, balusters and rails and I'm having
> difficulty securing the balusters to the hardwood floor. I'm using small
> finishing nails to hold them to the floor because the glue in the protruding
> dowels is not holding (they are spinning). When I nail, I'm going through
> the side and down but frequently I get a twisted nail or unable to sink them
> without hitting the baluster or floor with the hammer.I tried a nail sink
> but it only works when the nail is nearly or fully in.
>
> Can you give me a tip on the methods and tools needed to do this correctly? > > >