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Deck Railing

6 Porch Railing Ideas Fit for Any Home

December 26, 2022 by Staff Reporter

When you think of a Southern home, one of the first things to come to mind is probably an inviting porch. But take a closer look, and you’ll see it’s the little details that make for such picture-perfect porches. One such detail is the railing style.

“The fun thing about railings to me is it’s like the jewelry on the house,” explains Mary-Dolph Simpson, president of Simpson Builders, Inc. “You can do anything.”

So how do you choose? Two important factors in deciding which style is right for your home are the architectural aesthetic and location. Houston-based interior designer Katie Davis explains that though homes may be similar, each will require a different treatment.

“There are a few factors we consider when deciding on a railing style,” Davis says. “First and foremost we look at the bones of the house: Is it a historical home? What style architecture is it (or was it)? We always try to stay true to the home’s origins. Another thing we look at is height, for code compliance…We pick a style of railing we love that works within the aesthetic of the neighborhood and also serves a client’s needs.”

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Squared

Laurey W. Glenn

Kevin Clark, a senior principal with Historical Concepts, says it comes down to both precedent and personality. Sometimes, simple and timeless is best. “Railing styles should be compatible with the overall aesthetic of the home and its locale,” Clark says. “Simple square or round “pickets” would be very appropriate on a vernacular Southern home.”

Slim Spindles and Classic Balusters

Ngoc Mihn Ngo

Clark reports that turned balusters would pair well with a Georgian design. According to A Field Guide to American Houses by Virginia Savage McAlester, both slender spindles and classical balusters boast a wide range of architectural styles they’re compatible with, from Georgian, Federal, and Colonial to Spanish Revival and French Eclectic.

Geometric and Chippendale

Photo: Annie Schlechter; Stylist: Elizabeth Beeler

A Chippendale pattern might be a good fit for those looking to outfit their colonial cottage or Greek revival home with a bit of pattern play. Simpson reports she likes to connect the inside of the home to the outside by incorporating a Chippendale pattern on both interior and exterior railings.

Horizontal

This second-floor Gulf-front porch with two Adirondack chairs facing the water is an ideal spot from which to watch the sun rise and set. The horizontal rail, rather than conventional vertical pickets, provides a seamless view.

Simple and sweet, horizontal railing can play to several different styles, always adding a touch of clean modern sensibility.

Contemporary Cables

Simpson reports an uptick in the popularity of cable-style or wire railings, which are right at home in Southern coastal design. “There is a new wave of coastal modern or coastal farmhouse,” she says. “Look to places like Seaside or Rosemary Beach. It’s like boat wire, so it’s especially good in coastal towns.”

Millwork Motifs

Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Liz Strong

Looking for another way to add panache? Dial up the details by introducing a motif. Simpson says while it’s not for everyone, it can be another fun way to connect the exterior to the interior of the home by repeating the same motif on interior staircases.

Clark highlights how this is another great way to play to your locale: “For example, a farmstead estate might introduce a balustrade with a wheat sheaf motif as seen on the homes on the Natchez Trace.”

Don’t Forget: Safety and Maintenance

Finally, don’t forget. There’s a reason the railings exist in the first place. Whatever style you choose, railings will have to comply with local codes.

“With most raised porches, handrails will need to be 36″ tall (or higher, based on local codes), with tightly spaced balusters and sturdy components,” advises Clark.

Additionally, Clark suggests homeowners consider long-lasting materials that “feel good to the touch, as handrails offer an ideal spot to lean against, or even hold one’s drink!”



Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Deck Railing

How to build a deck railing: an expert step-by-step |

October 20, 2022 by Staff Reporter

Whether you are starting from scratch or need to replace old or worn ones, knowing how to build a deck railing is a must if you are keen to DIY your deck or porch.

While a deck may be on the top of every homeowner’s wishlist, building a deck is actually a rather complicated task. But don’t let that deter you, with plenty of planning, lots of advice and an enthusiastic helper there’s no reason why you can’t try it yourself along with building deck stairs.

And of course, once you’ve decided to tackle the deck build without calling in a professional, you’ll be keen to understand how to install deck railing ideas. 

Here, the experts give their advice on how to build a deck railing.

How to build a deck railing

There are many different types of deck railings, but we have chosen to tell you how to build a deck railing in wood, arguably the most commonly installed.

Common softwood, which has been treated, will be referred to as pressure treated lumber. Steve Vanadia, president of Vanco Construction (opens in new tab) recommends choosing ‘2in x 6in sections of timber for the inverted top rail,’ and ‘2in x 2in timber for the balusters.’ These sections of timber can then be cut to the appropriate length.

Alternatively, there are a variety of pre-made rails available to buy in both softwood and composite. These can be picked up at your local DIY store or online.

The materials and tools will depend on the type of wood you are using. However, these are the basics.

You will need:

  • Timber: 2in x 2in and 2in x 6in 
  • Circular Saw
  • Drill
  • Hand saw
  • Tape measure
  • Spirit Level
  • Safety goggles
  • Screws

1. Measure for the balusters and railings

Start by determining the number of railing posts (referred to as balusters) you need and the spacing between them. It’s important to ensure they are evenly spaced. Measuring out where each baluster will go can be laborious but it is worth doing thoroughly.

Once you have completed the relevant calculations, cut down all your balusters to the correct length using a saw.

2. Assemble the railings

To assemble the rail, screw balusters near the ends of a thin strip of wood which will become your top rail.

Screw another thin strip to the bottom of the balusters. Once you have completed this and everything is in place, drive longer screws (approx 2in long) at an angle into the balusters. This will hold them all securely in place.

3. Installing the railings

‘Deck railings – either handrails and guardrails – are mandatory safety features so check building codes to understand how they should be installed,’ say the team at Decks.com (opens in new tab).

The best way to commence installation is to start with the end posts. These will be placed on the four edges of your deck. When you cut the posts ensure they have an overhang – this will make them easier to attach to the deck. Drill pilot holes in the overhang section and secure the posts to the deck.

Secure the bottom rail to the posts. Pre-drill holes at an angle, toward the posts. Then drive long screws through these holes and into the posts so that the bottom rail will stay securely in place. Then secure the top rail to the posts using the same method. Repeat this process for all the other sections.

4. Finishing the railing

You will need to treat wood using a good quality product. ‘Optimal conditions are 50 to 90℉ with no rain in the forecast for at least 24 hours,’ explains Dani Neumann of Thompson’s WaterSeal (opens in new tab).

Once applied, sealant will protect your wood for between one to three years depending on deck usage and weather conditions.

What is the easiest deck railing to install?

Pre-cut vinyl and composite railings are the easiest deck railings to install because they are quick to assemble and fit, and don’t need sealing for protection against the weather. 

How far apart should posts be on a deck railing?

Posts that are 4in x 4in are best placed six feet apart; posts that are 6in x 6in should be around eight feet apart. 



Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Deck Railing

10 Deck Railing Ideas and Styles to Recreate

October 14, 2022 by Staff Reporter

SIMON UPTON

When it comes to working on a utilitarian space like a deck, there’s no rule that says all attempts at design need to go out the window. Instead of opting for a builder-grade version of a deck that you could find in any home development, look to the architecture of your home—and its surroundings—to help inform the design of your deck. One of the easiest ways to personalize your elevated outdoor space? The railings! From intricately carved wood railings to modern metal and practically-invisible glass, panels, these design-forward ideas marry form and function into an outdoor space that will wow from every angle.

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For a look that blended seamlessly with the turn-of-the-century exterior on this Maine escape, architect and designer Gil Schafer opted for simple horizontal deck railings in the same tone and finish as the main house. The end result is a timeless design that marries perfectly with the multi-level garden below.

Instead of relying on a hardware store-grade solution, use your deck railing as an opportunity to marry your exterior design to that of your surroundings. Here, a Southwestern-style abode gets an additional exterior upgrade with a terrace railing made entirely of stone, stacked in a graphic pattern.

In this California Spanish Colonial, designer Regan Baker and landscape architect Terremoto relied on sleek steel accents to blend the expansive interior with the deck and backyard outside. Sliding steel and glass doors practically disappear when open, while an equally dramatic metal deck railing carries the drama to the outdoors.

Sometimes something as simple as deck railing can actually be the design moment your space is craving. Case in point? This dreamy dinner spot, designed by Amanda Lindroth, which relies on a classic diamond trellis railing pattern (painted in Benjamin Moore’s Southfield Green) to bring a touch of sophisticated Southern charm to the alfresco space.

For a decking design that whispers—not screams—alongside your home’s exterior, choose materials and a profile that echo the same design features. On the deck of this Seatle home designed by Ore Studios, a metal and stainless steel cable railing system allow the surrounding wooded backdrop to sing.

For a look that channels all the charm of a classic Americana cabin, look no further than cedar wood. The durable material is a designer go-to thanks to it ability to hold up to any manner of elements—plus it feels right at home in a rustic setting, as seen here in this Hudson Valley home designed by owner Beverley Kerzner.

When the surrounding views are at a premium, you want to strategically choose decking details that don’t detract from your million-dollar vista. This deck—designed by Arent & Pyke—practically disappears into the clouds thanks to seamless panels of clear as ice glass.

Just because you typically envision deck railings incorporating spindles or horizontal framing doesn’t mean that’s their only interpretation. Here, a wrap-around stone banquet doubles as a deck railing to the low-laying stone structure, providing a necessary perimeter and a place to perch.

Ray Booth’s Provincetown property sits in the middle of a forest, so to say it’s enchanting would be an understatement. “It didn’t need to stand out—it needed to be a shadow,” Booth says of the home, so he opted for a black exterior, which applies to the railings, too.

10

Modern, White, and Low

In this Plam Beach getaway designed by John Fondas, the lower, minimalist railing on the deck allows us to focus on the view of the intercoastal waterway beyond. It’s painted a bright white paint to match the columns and also the color scheme of the adjacent room.

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Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Deck Railing

Deck Railing Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space

October 7, 2022 by Staff Reporter

If your household’s favorite outdoor hangout space is the deck, why not make it extra special with a unique deck railing treatment? There are a myriad of style and material options available today, from traditional wood to minimalist glass, each offering the opportunity to enhance your home’s exterior. It’s also important to consider whether there’s a view off the deck. A body of water or a breathtaking forest shouldn’t be blocked off by a solid-panel railing. Other times, it’s the cozy feel of a fully enclosed deck that’s the best choice, as it also offers a high level of privacy. Whatever your preference, you’re sure to find something to inspire your deck railing upgrade in this roundup.

istockphoto.com



Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Deck Railing

DSI Westbury® Veranda Aluminum and Glass Deck Railing Broadens Horizons

August 27, 2022 by Staff Reporter

Bremen, IN

–News Direct–

Digger Specialties Inc. (DSI), the leading manufacturer of aluminum railing in the United States, offers the most extensive line of aluminum railing products in the industry. Included in this line of products is DSI’s Westbury Veranda aluminum and glass deck railing, which is designed to allow homeowners to enjoy unobstructed views from their decks, porches, and balconies. Veranda satisfies homeowners’ desires for products that complement their home’s design and are contemporary in appearance, exceptionally durable, and easy to maintain.

 

Within the category of decking and railing products, railing systems that enable wide open vistas in outdoor living spaces are growing in popularity. Typical railing systems are designed with infills (or balusters) between the top and bottom rails that can inhibit homeowners from enjoying unobstructed views. Veranda aluminum and glass deck railing features powder coated aluminum rails and posts with tempered glass panel infills. The expansive glass panels featured on Veranda offers an open horizon with unobstructed views and are sleek, elegant, and contemporary in design.

 

Veranda aluminum posts and rails are lightweight and easy to install while providing a high level of durability and strength. Westbury Veranda is available in twelve standard powder coated colors with a choice of smooth or textured surfaces to enhance any deck or porch where composite, wood, or PVC deck boards are used. Veranda is engineered to provide a safe enclosure for children and pets and is code approved for residential and commercial railing applications. All DSI Westbury Aluminum Railing comes with a lifetime limited warranty from DSI.

 

For more information about Veranda railing or the wide array of designs and styles of Westbury Aluminum Railing please visit westburyrailing.com.

 

###

 

About Digger Specialties, Inc.

DSI is an industry leading manufacturer of aluminum and vinyl railing, aluminum and vinyl fencing, gates, composite, aluminum and fiberglass architectural columns and outdoor lighting. For information about the DSI collection of products, visit diggerspecialties.com.

 

View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/dsi-westbury-r-veranda-aluminum-and-glass-deck-railing-broadens-horizons-405752425

2022 News Direct Corp.



Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Deck Railing

Reader’s photo: A baby raccoon hangs out on a deck railing

August 10, 2022 by Staff Reporter

By

Seattle Times photo producer

Photographer: Gloria Z. Nagler

Photo taken: July 8, 2022, in Lake Forest Park

Photographer’s description: “Baby raccoon gets hung up! Our resident raccoon brought along her baby the other day. Right after I made the shot, the baby clambered down to the floor of the deck, where Mama was waiting. Used the nearest camera/lens I could lay hands on: Olympus M1X, 150 mm, ISO 3200, f/4.5, 1/100.”

Critique: “Regular readers will recognize your name — and the sense of whimsy your photos often bring. This adorable moment is no exception. I like how you’ve cropped it, leaving us with a good sense of place while focusing on the cute critter. The raccoon’s eyes are the key, and they kind of direct the reader’s eye to the ‘danger’ of the situation. Superfun. Thanks for sharing, Gloria!”

Below is a gallery of previous Reader’s Lens picks. Share your recent photo from around the Northwest. Submit online at seattletimes.com/submit-photos. Our favorite will appear in this spot next week. We judge the year’s best and award prizes in December.



Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Deck Railing

How to build a deck railing: an expert step-by-step

July 23, 2022 by Staff Reporter

Whether you are starting from scratch or need to replace old or worn ones, knowing how to build a deck railing is a must if you are keen to DIY your deck or porch.

While a deck may be on the top of every homeowner’s wishlist, building a deck is actually a rather complicated task. But don’t let that deter you, with plenty of planning, lots of advice and an enthusiastic helper there’s no reason why you can’t try it yourself.

And of course, once you’ve decided to tackle the deck build without calling in a professional, you’ll be keen to understand how to install deck railing ideas. 

Here, the experts give their advice on how to build a deck railing.

How to build a deck railing

There are many different types of deck railings, but we have chosen to tell you how to build a deck railing in wood, arguably the most commonly installed.

Common softwood, which has been treated, will be referred to as pressure treated lumber. Steve Vanadia, president of Vanco Construction (opens in new tab) recommends choosing ‘2in x 6in sections of timber for the inverted top rail,’ and ‘2in x 2in timber for the balusters.’ These sections of timber can then be cut to the appropriate length.

Alternatively, there are a variety of pre-made rails available to buy in both softwood and composite. These can be picked up at your local DIY store or online.

The materials and tools will depend on the type of wood you are using. However, these are the basics.

You will need:

  • Timber: 2in x 2in and 2in x 6in 
  • Circular Saw
  • Drill
  • Hand saw
  • Tape measure
  • Spirit Level
  • Safety goggles
  • Screws

1. Measure for the balusters and railings

Start by determining the number of railing posts (referred to as balusters) you need and the spacing between them. It’s important to ensure they are evenly spaced. Measuring out where each baluster will go can be laborious but it is worth doing thoroughly.

Once you have completed the relevant calculations, cut down all your balusters to the correct length using a saw.

2. Assemble the railings

To assemble the rail, screw balusters near the ends of a thin strip of wood which will become your top rail.

Screw another thin strip to the bottom of the balusters. Once you have completed this and everything is in place, drive longer screws (approx 2in long) at an angle into the balusters. This will hold them all securely in place.

3. Installing the railings

‘Deck railings – either handrails and guardrails – are mandatory safety features so check building codes to understand how they should be installed,’ say the team at Decks.com (opens in new tab).

The best way to commence installation is to start with the end posts. These will be placed on the four edges of your deck. When you cut the posts ensure they have an overhang – this will make them easier to attach to the deck. Drill pilot holes in the overhang section and secure the posts to the deck.

Secure the bottom rail to the posts. Pre-drill holes at an angle, toward the posts. Then drive long screws through these holes and into the posts so that the bottom rail will stay securely in place. Then secure the top rail to the posts using the same method. Repeat this process for all the other sections.

4. Finishing the railing

You will need to treat wood using a good quality product. ‘Optimal conditions are 50 to 90℉ with no rain in the forecast for at least 24 hours,’ explains Dani Neumann of Thompson’s WaterSeal (opens in new tab).

Once applied, sealant will protect your wood for between one to three years depending on deck usage and weather conditions.

What is the easiest deck railing to install?

Pre-cut vinyl and composite railings are the easiest deck railings to install because they are quick to assemble and fit, and don’t need sealing for protection against the weather. 

How far apart should posts be on a deck railing?

Posts that are 4in x 4in are best placed six feet apart; posts that are 6in x 6in should be around eight feet apart. 



Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Deck Railing

Deck railing ideas: materials and styles for every garden

May 12, 2022 by Staff Reporter

Deck railings are an important part of the design of any deck – along with being a vital safety feature for raised surfaces and stairs. 

And whether you’re thinking about replacing railings that let an existing deck down because they’re not in great condition, or look old-fashioned, or you’re planning the railings for a brand new deck design, there are plenty of stylish options to choose from. Either way, when you are looking for deck ideas, this is an element that needs to be on your list.

‘Deck railings need rails, posts and an infill which could be either balusters (wood or metal) or panels (wood or glass),’ says Zoe Goff, decking expert at Richard Burbidge. ‘Timber creates a rustic look that is perfect for a traditional country house. Alternatively, glass is a great option for more contemporary properties. By reflecting light, glass paneling creates the illusion of space and enhances the view of the garden.’

We’ve put together the best deck railing ideas to inspire you to make yours stylish.

1. Keep it natural

deck railing ideas

(Image credit: Future / Joanna Henderson)

Create a relaxed setting with deck railings in a light wood finish to match the timber deck surface. They can be consistent with the hue of furniture – like this outdoor bar – as well, and even that of planters. 

Textural contrast is key when working in a monotone palette and here ridged deck boards contrast with smooth railings while woven furniture and a palm-style roof complete the picture. 

2. Match deck railing to architecture

deck railing ideas

(Image credit: Future / Matthew Williams)

Consider the architectural features of your home when weighing up deck railing ideas to ensure the addition is sympathetic. An imposing pillar is best teamed with substantial deck posts, balusters and handrails to keep the elements of the design in proportion. Color matching will also help make the effect harmonious.

3. Combine materials

deck railing ideas

(Image credit: Composite Prime)

A glass deck baluster opens the outdoor space up to the garden and views beyond, but it needn’t be the only material used for the railing. For a more substantial design a low wall can form the base of the railing with clear glass above. The outlook will remain unimpeded from a seated as well as standing position and with full-length windows behind the deck it will be just as good from the interior as the outside.

4. Pick dual-purpose deck railings

deck railing ideas

(Image credit: Trex)

Consider going for deck railings that double as seats to make the most of the space and entertain more people in comfort at once. Using decking rather than more traditional railings can open up the view beyond the garden and help the deck blend into the surroundings.

‘Gone are the days of simple squared-off decks,’ says Leslie Adkins, Vice President of Marketing at Trex. ‘Remodelers and landscapers report increased interest from customers in decks with multiple levels, curves, railings, seating options built into the design, and even walls to create three-dimensional interest and define different functional areas.’

See: Deck color ideas – how to choose the color to paint your deck

5. Zone the garden 

deck railing ideas

(Image credit: Future / Polly Eltes)

Deck railings could be desirable for style and to zone the garden even when the deck’s low height doesn’t demand them for safety. ‘I would base the selection of the deck railing on the style and concept of the garden,’ says award-winning garden designer Jack Dunckley. ‘You really want these to complement the look you are trying to achieve, not fight against it.’

‘You might also want to take into consideration any themes in the local area/of the property that you could tie into the garden,’ he adds. 

6. See clearly with glazed deck railings

deck railing ideas

(Image credit: Sadolin)

Full height glass railings are a good option for a low level deck – or for small garden decking ideas where you want to enhance space, not divide it. They can provide shelter from the wind for a dining or seating area but leave the view completely open. They’re tempered for safety.

Bear in mind that glass is likely to need more frequent cleaning than other deck railing materials, so be prepared to keep it sparkling. Glass panels can also make the deck hotter, so glass balusters might be a better choice for those who live in hotter climates allowing a welcome breeze through.

See: Deck railing ideas – materials and styles for every garden

7. Let in light

deck railing ideas

(Image credit: Future / Polly Eltes )

A porch deck or one with a roof enjoys less daylight than a deck that’s open to the sky, so using glass as part of the railings can be a boon here. But where the contemporary style of a full glass panel on its own would fail to complement a home’s architecture, frame it with similar materials to that of the house.

The effect will also be less vertiginous than glass alone for a deck at any height above ground.

8. Go horizontal 

deck railing ideas

(Image credit: Future / Mark Bolton)

Deck railings don’t have to be vertical, and horizontal railings have modern style. Light falling through close horizontal slats can bring a pleasing pattern to the deck’s surface, too.

While this deck railing is made from wood that blends with its riverside surrounds, cable railings are an alternative horizontal design. Bear in mind that they may not meet code, depending on your location, though.

See: Deck planting ideas – using beds, planters and living walls

9. Embrace traditional style

deck railing ideas

(Image credit: Future / Polly Eltes)

White picket fence-style railings look attractive and can make a deck more of a feature by adding height without blocking the views from and towards it. They can also link home and garden by repeating an exterior window trim shade.

A matching pergola with a climber trained around it makes for a pretty entrance to a garden deck and one with scented blooms makes stepping through it even more of a sensory experience.

10. Try geometric pattern

deck railing ideas

(Image credit: Richard Burbidge)

Let a design like this traditional crosshatch panel from Richard Burbidge create a focal point of deck railings. Its lines distinguish it from the horizontals of the deck itself and the verticals of the posts.

Wood railings have the advantage that they can be stained or painted to match the deck. They do need regular maintenance, though, to keep them in great shape. 

11. Select a contemporary design

deck railing ideas

(Image credit: Jay Graham Photographer)

This California home is clean and contemporary in style and the elevated ipe deck by Gary Marsh Design  had to honor the home. ‘I elected to design a custom powder coated steel railing to address three components,’ explains Gary Marsh. ‘First to ensure minimal obstruction to the sweeping view, second to blend the color into the surrounding trees, and finally to provide a sense of strength and security due to the deck’s elevation.’

12. Choose cocktail railings

deck railing ideas

(Image credit: Future / David Giles )

A wide flat hand rail can be combined with the pickets or balusters preferred for deck railings, and it’s a functional feature, allowing drinks or even small plates to be set down on it. 

The cocktail rail is ideal for a deck that’s an entertaining space, and can be particularly useful on a small deck when extra furniture for the same purpose would leave it overcrowded. 

13. Use curves

deck railing ideas

(Image credit: Trex)

Deck railings don’t have to be straight and curved versions along with a curved deck can be used at large scale for an impression of grandeur, or to soften the lines of a smaller design.

These Trex Transcend railings are composite like the deck itself and have the advantage of needing very little maintenance; the material isn’t subject to rot or warping and will retain its color with no painting or staining ever needed. 

What is the cheapest deck railing?

The cheapest deck railing is generally made from wood, although prices will vary depending on the type of wood selected. Stainless steel, aluminum, composite and cable railings are often mid-priced options while glass balusters are generally the most expensive choice. 

Be mindful that if you do opt for wood you will need to do much more maintenance than with other materials, so although it’s cheaper to buy in the first place it will involve higher costs over the years.

What is the best railing for a deck?

The best railing for a deck depends on its situation, the time available for upkeep, and budget. ‘As with any design, form follows function, and you must first establish what the railings need to achieve,’ says Richard McLane, Design Director at Bisca. ‘Is it a visual definition of the space or guarding a change in level? If protecting a change of level, you need to consider the strength of the railings and spacing between them. 

‘You should also consider the amount of maintenance; timber handrails such as teak will naturally age well, whereas stained timber finishes will need more TLC. Metal handrails can provide a more sculptural and open design to the railings, with options for finish depending on the desired look. 

‘Options for the in fill below the handrail are vast, and budget may influence decisions.  Rope works well to visually divide the space but does not provide the structural guarding of timber or metal railings. 

‘For minimal visual impact but maximum guarding and protection from the wind glass can also be a great option to finish your decking and can be finished with or without a handrail.’

How far apart should deck railing posts be?

Deck railing posts (aka pickets or balusters) should not allow a 4 inch sphere to pass through (US), or a 100mm sphere (UK), but always double check specifics where you live.

Can I use 2×4 for deck railing?

You can use 2×4 for the upper and lower rails if you want to construct your own deck railings in wood. Remember that you should always check the local building code or building regulations before you design and build your own deck railings to ensure that they will be compliant.



Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Deck Railing

Manufactured Deck Railings Make for an Easy Installation

April 24, 2022 by Staff Reporter

Manufactured deck railings are commonly purchased as complete systems that include posts, subrails, top rails, and infill panels.

On this system by Feeney, aluminum posts are laid out on the deck first, then fastened with supplied lag screws. These lags must completely pass through decking into solid blocking at each post location. Then posts are checked for plumb and adjusted with shims if needed.

Bottom rails are next. Once cut to length, they receive vinyl inserts to prevent a galvanic reaction with infill panels­. These attach to brackets at the base of each post. Side brackets are fastened through factory predrilled holes and outfitted with vinyl inserts.

When infill panels need trimming, measuring from center-out in each direction will maintain an even reveal on each end. A grinder with a metal-cutting disk is used to trim these stainless-steel panels.

To install, panels slide into the vinyl inserts in the frame until completely captured. Then the remaining vinyl inserts and subrails are installed.

To complete the system, hand rails are cut to length, positioned, and fastened with the supplied hardware.

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Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Deck Railing

Installing a new porch railing

April 12, 2022 by Staff Reporter

Caught red-handed!

That’s what happened to my big brother and I when we slipped undetected onto our “Playground in the Sky” to watch a group of men from the church install a brand new porch railing; so we wouldn’t fall to our deaths some twenty feet below.

Ever since the three Basey men — Brother Alexander and two of his sons, Al and Bill – arrived earlier that Saturday morning, these two young whippersnappers were just itching to take part in the flurry of activity at the back end of the house.

However, we were banished to our father’s recliner in the family room to watch our usual weekend television programming or play with a wide array of toys in the playroom next to the washer and dryer.

Although we reluctantly went back to watching Scooby Doo and the gang solve their next case, John and I made a break for it when Mom stepped into the spare bedroom to change our baby sister’s dirty diaper.

After climbing over the arm of the chair so our mother wouldn’t hear the foot rest close, these two mischief-makers moseyed out to the construction site pretending to be a couple of building inspectors.

We weren’t out there very long before Dad spied us out of the corner of his eye and came waltzing over to find out how we escaped our mother’s watchful eye.

The pastor’s firstborn, who was a very hyperactive child, was already walking across a wood beam imagining it was a tightrope high in the air while I was busy counting the timbers lining the deck.

“What are you two doing out here?” queried the blond-haired minister as he grabbed ahold of his number one son and removed him from the wood. “You’re going to hurt yourself, John.”

“We wanted to see what youns were doing out here,” the six-year-old glanced over at the three Basey men, who were busy working to assemble sections of the new railing.

“What happened to all our toys,” this kindergartner asked with eyes as big as saucers while glancing around the porch looking bewildered. “I hope you didn’t throw them away.”

“I didn’t throw them away,” chuckled Dad as he tousled his youngest boy’s brown locks. “I wanted to make room for the work to be done today; and I didn’t want any of them rolling over the edge of the porch.”

The men had already knocked out an entire section of railing which was totally open to the yard below.

“Not to worry, boys,” he continued directing his offspring’s attention to the knee wall at the opposite side of the large porch. “They are setting on top of the trap door.”

When the freckle-faced lad went over to check it out for himself, he leaned over the half wall surrounding the escape hatch; and sure enough, the toys were there just like he said.

“Yep, they’re here, Mark,” confirmed the six-year-old looking back at his little brother with a wide grin splashed across his face. “You don’t have anything to worry about; cause they’re safe and sound.”

Shortly thereafter, when the tall slender woman stepped out onto the porch, these brothers eyes grew wide; and we both swallowed hard knowing that the jig was up.

“They got past me while I was changing Kathleen’s diaper,” explained the mother of three as she looked at her husband with an exasperated sigh. “I can’t take my eyes off of them for a minute.”

“I figured as much,” affirmed Dad as the athletic tyke rejoined them near the door. “They’re just excited about getting back out here to play; but they didn’t mean any harm.”

“That may be true,” noted the dark brown-haired woman as she glanced at the open space with no railing while clutching a hand to her chest. “If it’s all the same to you, I’ll be taking the boys back into the house.”

“Ahh… Mom,” gripped the first grader looking up at his mother with consternation. “Why can’t we stay out here; cause we promise to keep out of everyone’s way.”

“You say that now,” the minister’s wife reasoned peering into her son’s sad eyes. “But the minute I go back inside, you will be asking them a million questions; and there are too many things out here for you to get hurt on.”

“Not to mention the obvious,” she added pointing to the Basey men as removed yet another section of the old railing. With that said, the mother and her sons went inside and left the men to their work.

Confined to the play room for the remainder of the morning, the only way we were going to get a gander at the goings-on outside was from the large opening next to the knee wall area of the back porch.

After several minutes of sulking, John finally got up the gumption to ask if we could at least open the window overlooking our outdoor playground to feel apart of the excitement just a few feet away.

Looking at our dejected little faces from the kitchen for a minute, Mom felt sorry for us and came out to open the double pane window. These brothers hugged at her skirt before our mother went back to her work in other parts of the house.

With Al and his younger brother Bill working on the end of the porch closet to the trap door, the two sets of siblings began talking to one another as the work progressed.

When the two mustached men attached one of the new sections of railing, these youngsters watched them with keen interest.

“There,” noted Al as he attempted to shake the wooden structure. “I don’t think that’s going anywhere; because it’s very sturdy, indeed.”

“No bike is going through this railing,” commented Bill as he looked at these boys and gave us both a wink and a smile.

Mark S. Price is a former city government/county education reporter for The Sampson Independent. He currently resides in Clinton.



Originally Appeared Here

Filed Under: Deck Railing

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