Deck Railings

econdave · 05-10-2006, 08:45 PM

My deck is nearly complete thanks to some great advice. Now I have to put up my railings from my deck to the ground level. How do I determine the height. From the deck, the height is 38", I have 5 steps to ground level. What height to I cut my 4x4 post that attach to the last step stringer? Thanks again for all the help.

bob the builder · 05-13-2006, 05:37 PM

Where I live the code varies a bit from town to town. One example from a town is gaurdrail shall be at least 36" above surface of the deck. Handrail must be at least 30" but no greater than 34" above the nosing of the treads.

So the question is how are you going to attach the handrail to the gaurdrail, every one I do is a little different from the other.
It might help to lay a board on your steps to show you the angle that the handrail will be at.
It is probably easier for you to install 4x4's level first, then cut your angle on them after you snap a chalk line.
Obviously you need to account for the thickness of the handrail and subtract that thickness from your post height.

Bob

**AtlanticWBConst.** · 05-13-2006, 07:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by econdave

From the deck, the height is 38", I have 5 steps to ground level. What height to I cut my 4x4 post that attach to the last step stringer? Thanks again for all the help.

As Bob the Builder wrote: Find out what your local code dictates. A question like "what is the residential required height?" can be answered easily by calling your local Building dept. inspection offices.

To determine the height of your stair railing (post height):

The actual measured height is taken from: the nose of your bottom step top (on your stringer), .....measure up........ (Add the height of your railing thickness) = This measurement total = would need to meet your required code.

We always just mark the post top as the required height, and add the railing thickness onto the height so it is slightly above the requirements.
Hope this helps.

econdave · 05-14-2006, 04:52 PM

so my ? is, if I cut the top 4x4 post at 38 inches on the top of the stringer, is the bottom 4x4 post cut the same height (38") attached to the nose of the bottom step? thanks.

**AtlanticWBConst.** · 05-14-2006, 07:40 PM

econdave,

It sounds like you have it right.....

econdave · 05-15-2006, 05:56 AM

thank you, havent been able to work on it, its been raining for a week here...

**AtlanticWBConst.** · 05-15-2006, 06:30 AM

Rain, I know....ugh
And more is coming....

Drop the deck project and start building a raft.......

econdave · 05-16-2006, 06:49 AM

I hear you. Thanks again for all your help, I just want to get this thing done so I can move on to a new project. I have to build a set of outside stairs to my barn. Heres another ?. Should I use sonatube or just dig the holes and set the post in concrete?

**AtlanticWBConst.** · 05-16-2006, 07:33 AM

I definetely recommend using the sonotube. Make sure you get the right diameter that is standard use in the part of the country you're in.

econdave · 05-16-2006, 05:07 PM

I am in upstate N.Y. I believe 8" but will check with the building inspector... still raining. Might clear up by Saturday...

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