How to Put Up Deck Railings
- 1). Mark the locations for the railing posts along the outer joists of the deck with tape. Space the posts 3 to 4 feet apart. Refer to the deck plan to determine the exact locations for the posts.
- 2). Cut notches over the marked lines on the deck surface that overhangs the framing using a reciprocating saw. This practice ensures the posts fit flush against the framing.
- 3). Measure the thickness of the wooden deck surface and add to it the joist height to determine the length you need to cut so the finished height of each 4-by-4-inch post is 36 inches. Count the markings for the posts on the deck surface to determine how many you need.
- 4). Form a notch along the lower end of each post. Add the height of the joist and the thickness of the deck and measure up from the lower end of each post to this calculated figure. Cut over the mark on the post to a depth of 1 1/2 inches using a circular saw. Cut 1/2 inch upward from the cut on the post, forming a notch.
- 5). Pre-drill two holes through the base of a post to make way for the lag bolts that will secure the posts to the deck framing. Repeat the process for each post. Insert each post into the notch in the deck and insert the bolts. Tighten the bolts with a socket wrench.
- 6). Measure and cut 2-by-4-inch lumber to form the upper railing. Position the railing against the upper ends of the posts, ensuring its top is flush with the tops of the posts, and secure with two screws. Repeat the procedure for attaching a lower railing to the posts, directly above the deck floor. Secure the lower railing to each post using two screws.
- 7). Mark the locations of the spindles between two adjacent posts on the upper and lower railing, spaced 4 inches apart. Hold a spindle vertically in place, directly above the parallel marks on the upper and lower railing, and secure in place using two screws at the top and two at the bottom.
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