How to Add Rails to a Deck

Watch your step.

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Whether you’re planning a dance party or a simple barbeque, you should want rails on any deck over 2 feet tall. While it might be funny to see Aunt Betsy tango off the side and roll into the neighbor’s yard, consider adding some protective guardrails.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

4” x 4” posts
Galvanized deck screws
2” x 4” lumber
Power drill
Handsaw and circular saw

Step1

Determine the height of your railing. Typically, rail posts are between 3 and 4 feet high, with the handrail mounted atop them, adding about an inch or so. Any shorter than this and your railing could become a tripping hazard.

Step2

Set the distance of each rail post about 8 inches from the next. You may want to shorten this distance to 4 inches if you have small children or pets. Next, measure your deck’s perimeter and determine how many posts you will need to complete the project. Cut the total number to the necessary height and set them aside.

Step3

Should your deck surface overhang the edge of your framing, measure where each post will be mounted and use a handsaw to notch holes in these locations. Doing so will allow the posts to attach flush with the framing.

Step4

Give your posts a more decorative look by slicing their bottom front edge at a 45-degree angle. When you line them up, this small detail will make a striking difference. For a more dramatic effect, use a router to engrave a design instead.

Step5

Mount the railing posts to your deck’s frame using galvanized deck screws spaced 2 inches apart. If you had to notch your deck surface, the indention will serve as an additional support.

Step6

Screw a 2” x 4” support to the outside top edge of each post and continue this procedure until you’ve covered your entire deck’s perimeter. Ensure the posts are spaced equally at the top and bottom, and then use 2 deck screws to fasten the support at each intersection.

Step7

Complete the project by placing a 2” x 4” cap flat atop the support you just installed. This will serve as the handrail and can be extended by using 2” x 6” boards. Screw the cap into the support and countersink the heads to prevent an uneven surface. Finally, sand the rails and apply stain and/or wood sealer.