How to Build a Deck Railing

Wondering how to build a deck railing? This important feature will help to make your deck a safe place and add to its overall visual mass and beauty. In most areas of the country, a deck railing is mandatory if the deck surface is more than a foot or two off the ground-exact dimensions vary by locality.

How To Build A Deck Railing That's Safe

A deck railing can be simple or elaborate but it must above all be safe. Most local building codes specify that deck railings should be at least 36" high, have vertical balusters with a less than 4" gap between them and are supported by the deck's joists, not the decking material. Check with your local building inspector and when you're ready to go, here's how to proceed:

• The makeup of deck railing. Your deck railing will be composed of several elements, including the posts-typically 4"x4" pressure treated wood, Top and bottom railings-composed of 2"x4" wood and balusters-2"x2" wood, composite material or metal poles.
• Locate the post positions. Around the rim joists of the deck, mark the post positions at four to six foot intervals (following building codes). Post installation shouldn't conflict with joists' locations and should create an even spacing around the perimeter of the deck.
• Prepare the posts. All posts should have a 1-1/2" x 7" notch removed from the bottom so that the post rests half on the deck surface and flush against the rim joist. The lower portion of each posts should also have two ½" holes drilled through to accept lag bolts during installation.
• Prepare the deck surface. If the surface of the deck projects out over the rim joists, it will need to be trimmed back to the joist where deck railing posts will be installed.
• Install the posts. Place each post in position, making sure they are plumb and square. Attach the posts to the rim joist with ½" galvanized lag bolts.
• Work with modules. Installing the railing is easier if you pre-construct railing modules prior to installation. Measure the distance between posts and cut railings to fit. Install balusters to top and bottom railings using galvanized fasteners, making sure the railing remains square.
• Attach modules. Railing modules can be attached to posts using galvanized hangers or by toe-nailing the modules into the posts using 3" galvanized fasteners.