4X4 wood posts to concrete for handrail

jod78

Need to build a simple handrail for some stairs. It's only 3 concrete steps coming off a porch. There's nothing on either side of the steps. I'm going to use a 4X4 wood posts. My question is how to secure the posts. I initially thought about just burying them in the ground beside the steps in about 2 ft of concrete, but then thought maybe it'd be easier to just attach the posts directly on top of the concrete steps. I know Simpson makes a few different post bases for this, but my question is - Will these post bases provide a strong enough attachment for lateral weight - ie someone leaning against the rail? Thanks.

joecaption

Got a picture?
And your right, just a flush mounted post base will not be strong enough.
I just do as you suggested and set the post in concrete next to the steps.

sublime2

Been there, done that.
Your are correct,they will not be strong enough.

PaliBob

And ugly too

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joed

Bolt them to the side of the steps. 2x4 will probably be strong enough. That is all I used my two step solid concrete porch and they are solid as a rock.

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woodworkbykirk

get a 4x4 post bracket thats designed for anchoring to concrete. they have a 5/8" hole in the middle for a 1/2" wedge anchor to fasten it down to concrete