How to Replace Railings on Cement Stairs

New wooden railings are inexpensive to build and look attractive.

Metal railings may be secure, but they can also be unsightly as they corrode and rust over time. You can replace old railing with an attractive wood railing without even needing a masonry drill. When making railings, always use a pressure-treated, rot-resistant wood so that it will last for years to come. The best wood for railings by far is cedar, as it is naturally bug- and rot-resistant.

Things You'll Need

• Hacksaw
• Pressure-treated 2-by-4 stock rails
• Dado
• Pencil
• Chop saw
• Construction adhesive
• Shims
• Clamps
• Handrail pieces

Instructions

1. Cut off everything but the secured vertical pieces from the old railing with the hacksaw.

2. Cut a dado that matches the diameter of the vertical pieces on the old fence into the 2-by-4 stock rails. The dados should be complementary so that you can place two of the stock rails together to completely encircle the old supports.

3. Draw the correct angle for an incline onto the stock rails with a pencil and cut the angle onto the rails using a chop saw. The angle will depend on how steep your steps are in relation to the railing.

4. Assemble the posts using construction adhesive to hold them together and clamping them into place. Place shims on the posts if necessary to ensure a level and even fit.

5. Attach your desired handrail pieces to the posts once the glue is dry. Handrails can be ordered from any lumberyard or home improvement store.

References

• Fine Homebuilding: Replace an Ugly Metal Railing