DIY Aluminum Balusters

Give your wood deck a modern look with aluminum balusters.

Aluminum balusters can be used on stairs, around swimming pools, decks, porches, and other areas where a safety barrier is needed. Aluminum is not only attractive, it's a durable material that holds up to weather decay. Aluminum comes in many styles and colors, from ornate to contemporary. Instead of replacing your current wood deck railing, update it with new aluminum balusters.

Things You'll Need

• Aluminum balusters
• Baluster connectors
• Silicone caulk
• Claw hammer
• Pry bar
• Hand saw
• Power drill with wood bit
• Screws
• Exterior-grade construction adhesive
• Finishing nails
• Solar post caps (optional)

Instructions

1. Saw off the old balusters and remove them from the wood railing.

2. Remove the top wooden rail.

3. Measure the length of the aluminum balusters. Mark each baluster position on top and bottom of the wooden rails.

4. Screw the baluster connectors into each mark using a drill driver. Apply a coat of silicone caulk where the connectors meet the aluminum railing. Add the caulk as you install one baluster at a time.

5. Place the bottom rails into the connectors.

6. Attach the top rail over the aluminum balusters, carefully. Be sure each new baluster is sitting flush into a connector. Drill the top rail into place till it's secure.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider removing your old post caps and updating them with solar caps. Apply adhesive to the inside of the solar caps and secure them to the posts on the wood railing.

References

• Deck Answers: Aluminum Railings
• Pro Built Railings: How to Install Deck Railing
• Stair Railing: Aluminum Railing Systems

Resources

• "Popular Mechanics" Porches, Decks & Patios; Rick Peters; 2008