#ATTACHING DECK RAILS HOW TO#
#ATTACHING DECK RAILS INSTALL#
#ATTACHING DECK RAILS CODE#
#ATTACHING DECK RAILS PLUS#

Return to Top Step #6: How to Properly Lay & Stagger Wood Decking BoardsĪlways start your boards on the house side of the deck and work your way out. They can also be decorative and add lighting and a finished look. They keep water from pooling and soaking into wood. Post caps are completely optional but encouraged.

#ATTACHING DECK RAILS INSTALL#

If you’re installing something like a hot tub, run them up to six feet high and install privacy fencing. However, you can go higher for architectural or privacy needs.

#ATTACHING DECK RAILS CODE#

Railings should always reach at least 36 inches high to meet code requirements. Extend them to the ground with footers for an easy fix. When installing a pergola or awning, they can act as framing, though they will need to transfer the load to the ground. Install them first to help determine the number of posts needed between corners. You’ll always need posts in each corner to attach railings. That’s how many railings you’ll need, then simply space them evenly between corners and your home. You’ll always need corner posts, so install these first then measure the distance between them, divide by six and round up. Space posts no more than six feet apart or follow your local code requirements. Most of these types come precut and ready to install. Trex decking installation costs between $6 and $9.50 per square foot. Maintenance free composite materials – like Trex – are available for twice the price of pressure treated pine. Most wood railings are 2×4’s or 2×6’s with 2×2 balusters all made from pressure treated softwoods, cedar, redwood or hardwoods.īut you have options. It’s cheap, easy to work with and looks great when installed and maintained properly. Wood is the most commonly used deck material. Below the first, drill a hole for the second bolt and install it. Drill a hole and use a carriage bolt to attach. Use structural screws – never deck screws. For one that don’t land directly on floor joists, you’ll want to install extra bracing to secure anchors to.

Determine the number of posts needed and space appropriately.

The exact configuration will depend on your designs. Some very small decks will use uncut posts that extend above the rim joists and around the perimeter as the rail posts. You can choose to install them either inside or outside the rim joists, but most code requirements have them installed inside. You will want to attach the 4×4 rail posts before you install your boards.

Just beginning the DIY building project, consult the following two guides for steps #1 – #4. Return to Top Step #5: Attaching Railing Posts to your Deck Surface Consult with a professional for a more detailed list. This isn’t a comprehensive list – each unique design can warrant different materials. Always use hardware designed for treated wood like galvanized and stainless-steel nails and screws.

#ATTACHING DECK RAILS PLUS#

You’ll need most of the tools mentioned in our guide: How To Build a Deck Step by Step, plus a few specifics.

Step #7: How to Install Guards or Handrails.

Step #6: How to Properly Lay & Stagger Wood Decking Boards.

This series assumes you’ve got a pretty good working knowledge of basic construction techniques and anatomy. If you’re looking to do some of the work yourself, this section is ideal. Railings and deck boards are an easier project than the framing and foundation. However, it uses similar board and railing installation techniques for patio and ground level decks. Don’t use this guide for covered porches. This will take you through installing the railings, laying boards and building stairs. This is the third and final deck building article.

Attaching deck rails