How to Build a Deck Handrail

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By Michael Straessle
eHow Contributing Writer

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(7 Ratings)

Handrail Variation

Having a deck on the front or the back of the house is always a nice amenity. While it is wise to put handrails on any deck regardless of its height, decks that lie close to the ground now usually have a handrail, as well. Installing a handrail on an existing deck is quite easy for the do-it-yourselfer with minimum power tool usage. If you can use a carpenter's square and skill saw, you have the skill needed to build your own handrail. Be sure that you buy pretreated lumber (in 10-foot lengths), even if you plan on painting or staining the handrail to match your pre-existing deck. The amount of lumber needed depends on the size of your deck.

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Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Measuring tape
2-by 4-inch pretreated lumber
Skill saw
16d penny nails
Carpenter's square
Hammer

Step 1

Measure the distance around the perimeter of the deck and record your measurements on paper. Cut enough of the 2-by-4s to go around the perimeter twice. For example, if your deck is 10-by-10 feet and the handrail will be on three sides, then your total perimeter measurement will be 30-feet. You will need 30-feet for the top of the handrail as well as 30-feet for the bottom of the handrail.
Step 2

Lay out the top and bottom of the handrail from Step 1 side by side around the perimeter of the deck. Starting at one end, make a mark every 16-inches.
Step 3

Marking for the 2-by-4-inch studs

Next, make a mark ¾-inches on either side of the 16-inch marks from Step 2. This will be where the studs will go.
Step 4

Properly constructed corners

Count the number of studs needed and cut them to 30-inches in length. Place the studs between the top and bottom of the handrail and drive nails through the top and the bottom of the handrail into the studs. Build the corners as shown in the illustration securing them with the 16d nails.
Step 5

Stand the handrail up and secure it to the deck by driving nails through the bottom handrail into the deck. Secure the corners of the handrails by holding them plumb and even with each other and securing them with 16 penny nails.

Tips & Warnings

Always wear safety glasses. Always double check your measurements before cutting. Store bought spindles can be used in the place of the studs.
Never leave power tools unattended. Do not attach the handrail to the house without first inspecting the wall where it meets the house.

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