How to Install a Pre Built Wood Porch Rail
Adding railings to a porch or deck creates both a decorative and safe deck or porch, and addition of railings is actually required by building code in many locales. Building a railing from scratch can be a difficult task; however, many manufacturers are producing pre-built railing sections to make this task even easier. To properly attach these sections, a certain procedure needs to be followed. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Drill
- Drill bits
- 3-inch exterior wood screws
- Hand saw
- Tape measure
- Paper
- Pencil
Instructions
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1
Find the center point of the railing section. Measure the true length of the railing section and mark the center on the rail with a pencil. This is important to make sure equal amounts are removed from both sides later. For this example, the railing will measure exactly 8 feet, so the center point is at 4 feet from either end.
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2
Measure the distance between the two posts the railing will attach to. Make sure to measure the inside dimension between the posts. For this example, the distance between the posts is 6 feet, 10 inches.
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3
Subtract the overall measurement of the railing section from the distance between the posts. This will give the total amount that has to be cut off the railing section. Now divide this number by 2; this will give the amount to cut off of each end of the railing section. For this example, the formula is: 8 feet minus 6 feet, 10 inches equals 1 foot 2 inches; divided by 2, this equals 7 inches. So for this example, 7 inches needs to come off each end to make the railing fit.
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4
Measure and mark the amount to cut off each end on both the top and bottom rails. Remember to double-check your measurement. Now cut the railing section at all four marks. Then measure the final railing section to make sure it will fit.
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5
Pre-drill the ends of the railing sections for the screws. The ends of the rails should be drilled at a 45-degree angle so that the screws will hold the railing and not crack the railing. Each rail end should have 2 screws holding it to the post.
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6
Place the railing in its final location and screw to the posts.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Top rails can be screwed to the posts from the bottom to hide the screws.
Do not overtighten the screws; this can crack the railing end.
Make sure to check with the local building commission on permitting needs and to ensure the railing meets the local building codes.
