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.

 

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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

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

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

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

(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

(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

(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

(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 

(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

(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

(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 

(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

(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

(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

(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

(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

(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

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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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.

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As we move into spring, our outdoor spaces are firmly at the forefront of our minds, and deck railing ideas should be there too. Deck railings are there to not only edge a decking area or patio, giving it the perfect finishing touch, but are also there for safety too. You might have steps leading down to or up to a decking area, be surrounded by water, or have a raised platform that sits above the rest of your garden, either way, with deck railing you can enjoy these elements safely.

Start by thinking about what deck ideas you want to incorporate into your garden. Once this is sorted, it’s time to look at deck railing ideas too. Think about who uses your garden. Is it just you or do you have young children visiting often? Do you have pets that might need keeping safe, do you have a view you don’t want to be restricted or do you just want to zone your outdoor space? All these things need to be considered before deciding on your deck railings. Luckily for you, we’ve pulled together our top tips and ideas, so you can be inspired to transform your garden ready for the warm weather.

Deck railing ideas

1. Choose a traditional style

Image credit: Future Plc/Polly Eltes

Traditional balustrade railing is a popular choice for many decking areas, and works particularly well in country-cottage style gardens. With square-edged, upright spindles, positioned at equal intervals and topped with a smooth wooden handrail, it’s sturdy and strong, but not a completely solid structure. The gaps between each spindle, allow for natural light, as well as plants to come through, but will still keep pets, children and visiting family and friends safe.

Opt to paint your balustrade railings in white or a very pale blue or grey, for a smart and classic look in your garden.

2. Keep it super simple

Image credit: Future Plc/ Joanna Henderson

Make simple wooden railings to surround your decking, with rustic lengths of wood bought from a timber merchant. As well as sturdy corner posts, you’ll need a length of wood to run along the bottom, slimmer lengths of wood cut into shorter planks for the railings and a chunkier, slightly rounded length of wood to act as the handrail. Here the simple railing doesn’t distract from the stunning water-side view, or try to compete with the fabulous tiki-bar either. Leave the wood bare, for a more natural look which will weather over time and soften into the background.

3. Or make it more complex

Image credit: Richard Burbidge

While a simple style certainly has its place, opt to elevate your deck railings style, by going for something a bit more exciting. Here geometric wooded panels interspersed with twisted, iron rods makes for a perfect way to finish a paired-back decking platform. Making a feature of your deck railing is a great idea in a larger garden and encouraging climbers such as roses to grow up the posts, allows it to become part of the overall space, rather than a jarring fixture.

4. Reflect the style of your surroundings

Image credit: Future Plc/Bruce Hemming

Wood deck railing is also a great choice if the home it sits beside has wooden features too. The wooden window frames, supporting beams and balcony balustrades are reflected in the wood decking rails that complete the wooden deck. Larger spaces have been left between the fairly simple wooden railings, so wood doesn’t overwhelm the space too much (unlike this paragraph!).

5. Opt for contemporary glass

Image credit: Bridgman

While wood is certainly the most popular choice for deck railing, glass is a close contender and suits more contemporary outdoor spaces. If you’re lucky enough to have a stunning view from your deck that you don’t want to spoil, choosing glass panels between metal uprights could be the way to go. The combination of metal and glass is also a winning formula if you have an outdoor pool, as again it won’t restrict the views around it, and is super safe for keeping little people away from the edge of open water.

6. Mix wood and glass together

Image credit: Future Plc/David Giles

Have the best of both and combine wood and glass together to edge your decking area. Metal might seem a little too cool and contemporary for your space, but if you still want to benefit from the transparent qualities of glass, then opting for wooden posts to support large glass panels is a great idea. Topping the panels with a wide, wooden handrail will create a juxtaposition between the two materials and finish your railings perfectly.

7. Take it back to black

Image credit: Future Plc/Malcolm Menzies

While glass is a popular choice for deck railing ideas, black glass is a slightly more original option. And where it reflects the style and materials of the house it is installed next to, it creates a perfect partnership. The black glass will obviously not be as transparent as clear glass, but it will still allow light to travel through it and acts more to zone the spaces between patio and planting. A half-height wall along the patio too, creates a more solid boundary, with the glass acting as a softer edge.

8. Make it horizontal

Image credit: Future Plc/Mark Bolton

Deck railings don’t have to be vertical, as this homeowner has shown with their choice. Using wooden slats in a horizontal formation creates a more solid edging to decking, but in turn creates some amazing shadows as sunlight is dispursed. Extending the railing to a higher height, will also give you privacy and create a clear boundary.

9. Go for something more ornate

Image credit: Future Plc/Armelle Habib

Wrought iron railings in a decorative design could be just what your decking or patio space needs to finish it off. It will create more of a barrier to weathers and wildlife and will certainly be seen as more of a feature in your outdoor space. If the design you choose is very busy, opt to paint the railing white to try and balance the business and encourage climbing plants to grow among it for a magical, whimsical feel.

What can I use instead of deck railing?

If you’re not keen on using deck railing, then way not use plants to edge your outdoor space? Choose the same plant, like a lavender or some tall grasses, arranged in a tight row along your patio or decking, to act as boundary edge. Alternatively a low-level garden wall could be used, a stunning rockery or even bench seating.

Which deck railing is cheapest?

Wood is probably the cheapest deck railing material, especially if you decide build it yourself. But metal cable options, glass or composite can all be found at great deals if you’re prepared to do a little shopping around for them.

What is the most popular deck railing?

The most popular deck railing is simple wood balusters with a handrail top, but you can make yours as adventurous as you like! Using plenty of colour, designs and patterns, choose wooden deck railing in a style that suits you and your garden.

Originally Appeared Here

Idahoans of a certain age will remember Dancing Bear.  Of an older age!  He was a character on Captain Kangaroo on CBS.  The show aired weekday mornings throughout my childhood (and even before I was born).  It was a simpler time before Cartoon Network and children’s TV was meant to calm and teach.

Then they clawed open a door and raided a refrigerator before leaving a deposit on a carpet.

Later, a defensive end named Ron McDole picked up the name because of his nimble footwork.  He played pro ball in Buffalo and Washington and was one of the great characters in football.

Bears have a special place in literature and culture but as most of us know (other than a few knot-headed Yellowstone tourists) they can be quite surly in real life.

I came across the video below during my daily show preparation.  What looks to be a black bear really wants access to a bird feeder.  Getting there is the challenge, although.  This guy is as nimble as Ron McDole.  Not sure where this happened as black bears have tremendous range across North America.

A few years ago there was a story out of North Idaho where some large bears climbed a post, then over a railing and onto a second floor deck.  Then they clawed open a door and raided a refrigerator before leaving a deposit on a carpet.  The homeowner was away.  You wouldn’t want to surprise those burglars!

Even in Idaho, most of us never really know how close we are to wildlife on a regular basis.  Some mornings I’ve been on my way to my car and can hear coyotes baying at the moon.  Here in the Magic Valley we don’t have many bear concerns.  About the biggest threat is the sometimes wandering moose.  They don’t balance nearly as well on porch railings.

LOOK: Here are the pets banned in each state

Because the regulation of exotic animals is left to states, some organizations, including The Humane Society of the United States, advocate for federal, standardized legislation that would ban owning large cats, bears, primates, and large poisonous snakes as pets.

Read on to see which pets are banned in your home state, as well as across the nation.

WATCH OUT: These are the deadliest animals in the world

 

Originally Appeared Here

Photo: istockphoto.com

Q: How Do I Meet Height and Spacing Code Requirements on My Deck Railing?

A: Homeowners with a backyard may daydream about building the perfect deck for outdoor cooking, lounging, and entertaining. While there are many details to consider, one important safety detail is the height and spacing of the railing.

As with most residential projects, the required deck railing height will depend on the municipality’s building codes. These codes set forth the requirements for any deck railing based on the platform height and the overall dimensions of the deck to ensure the safety of anyone using it. A low-platform deck may not need a railing to meet code requirements, while higher-platform decks may call for a deck railing with specific height and spacing requirements.

Since codes can vary by location, it’s always a best practice to contact the local building department and inquire about any necessary permits, inspections, and specific building plan requirements before starting construction. However, there are a few standard guidelines about railings to follow when planning a deck building project.

For straight railing, make sure that guardrails are at least 36 inches high.

Building codes for a standard single-family residential dwelling are typically based on the International Residential Code (IRC), a set of minimum guidelines established to ensure the protection of public health, safety, and welfare. According to the IRC, deck guardrails must be installed on any deck higher than 30 inches above grade. The deck guardrail height should be a minimum of 36 inches, as measured from the surface of the deck to the top of the rail.

Some local municipalities have their own code requirements about guardrail height, so check with the building department to ensure it does not require a higher railing than 36 inches. If a proposed deck will be lower than 30 inches above grade, it may not require guardrails to pass code (but a homeowner may opt to install them for safety anyway).

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Deck stair railing should measure at least 34 inches high.

When purchasing railing for a deck, homeowners will need to consider both guardrails around the perimeter of the deck and railing for the deck stairs. Deck stair railing should stand at least 34 inches high, measuring vertically from the nose of the stair tread to the top of the rail.

The IRC specifies that deck stair railing should measure between 34 and 38 inches high, so homeowners may wish to use railing that is even higher than 34 inches for their deck stairs.

Deck railing balusters should be spaced less than 4 inches apart.

Balusters are the vertical posts that run along the guardrails and stair railings to prevent people and pets from falling off the edge of the deck or staircase. Code requirements dictate that balusters be spaced less than 4 inches apart to prevent babies and small children from sticking their heads in the gaps between balusters.

If a deck baluster must be placed against a lower railing, the 4-inch rule also applies to the space between the bottom of the railing and the deck surface. To test out the spacing, find a 4-inch diameter sphere (such as a bocce ball) and ensure it can’t pass between the balusters.

Photo: istockphoto.com

You are allowed a larger opening for the triangle formed between the stair riser, stair tread, and bottom edge of the bottom rail.

There is one notable exception to the IRC requirements for deck railing gaps: The triangular opening formed where the stair riser, tread, and bottom stair rail edge meet. In this case, the opening should be small enough that a 6-inch sphere can’t fit through it.

Depending on the style of deck a homeowner wants and the complexity of the build, certain sections of a deck may be subject to different building codes. For example, a split level deck may not need the same guardrail, stair rail, and baluster requirements on a section that’s lower than 30 inches as an upper section of the deck that is 30 inches or more above grade.

No matter what type of deck you want to build, always ensure the plans meet local building code requirements before you begin.

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