How to Install Deck Railings

The main aim of installing a deck railing is to provide a protection against falls and injuries. Deck railings must be chosen such that they complement and enhance the deck design and also provide deck protection. There are different types of deck railings viz. wood, steel, wire, metal, glass and composite ones. Glass railings complement the modern and contemporary homes. Wood and metal are the most popular materials used for building a deck railing. Understanding the norms of the type and height of deck railings that have been laid down by the local government, constitutes one of the most important steps to be followed before you choose the type of deck railing. The codes of some of the local government also include the dimensions of the baluster spacings. Let us now take a look at how to install deck railings.

How to Install Deck Railings - Step 1
The height of the deck railings must be decided according to the building permits. The baluster spacings must also be decided accordingly. A layout of the railings must be created before you start working with the deck railings.

How to Install Deck Railings - Step 2
The next step is to mark the height of the railings and the position of the railing posts according to your layout. The railing posts must be spaced evenly with due care. The location of the railing posts must be decided considering the beams that extend over a deck flooring.

How to Install Deck Railing - Step 3
The railing posts are to be installed. For this, you need to cut a notch in the wooden deck according to the marks made for the railing posts in your layout. The height of the railing posts is decided by the following formula:

Height of Railing Post = Height of Railings + Floor Width + Width of Floor Joist

The deck posts are cut according to the height calculated and an angle (usually of 45 degrees) is made at the lower end of the railing posts. A diagonal wooden rod attached to the lower end of the railing post to support the railing post.

How to Install Deck Railings - Step 4
Once the railing posts are installed, the baluster positions should be marked according to the measurements in the layout. Then, attach each baluster to the floor and the top railings with screws fitted at the top and bottom of the deck railings. Once you have attached the deck railings for a single section i.e., in between two railing posts; repeat the same for each section.

How to Install Deck Railings - Step 5
The next step is to install the railing caps. The railing caps are leveled evenly and installed on the deck railings.

This is the procedure of how to install wooden railings. The deck railings can be installed in another way other than installing them section wise. The deck railings can be installed after constructing a structure of the deck railings according to the layout. This structure is then installed on the deck once the deck railings are integrated. Also, deck lighting is an important aspect that adds to the decor of your deck.