[ylwdog]

I am installing a composite/vinyl railing on a second story deck and would like advice for the post height.
The railing is 36" tall w/ a 39.5" high post, (from the decking), 4x4 post and I have 48" composite post sleeves. What height would you recommend for the post sleeve for the final post height? I am thinking 42" for a nice aesthetic look. This would give me 6" between the top rail and the top of the post. Any other opinions and why?

Thanks,

Doug

 

[jaros bros.]

42" will be fine.

 

[Bob Mariani]

cut the sleeve to 38" it sits on the deck and the post skirt sits on the decking around it. The railing is set at 36" high leaving a small reveal (2") before the post sleeve cap.

 

[DecksEtc]

You say it's a second story deck so I will assume it's at least 8' off the ground.

Where I live the code height for railings on a deck that high is 42" - height from the top of the deck to the top of the railing top rail.

 

[Bob Mariani]

In CT it is only 36" and there you have nothing to fall into but snow.

 

[carpenter man]

2nd story deck height

I live in South Jersey . I have done a lot of vinyl railings and fiberglass decks here along the shore. The code here for a second story deck is also 42" I always cut my sleeves at 44 " . Consider the post cap may add around one inch or slightly less.
BTW . Fiberglass decks are very durable, watertight and require little maintenence . The gel coat which is the final top layer can be tinted to just about any color to match your siding colors. Re apply gel coat about every 10 years . Apply with standard paint roller .[email protected] if you need any fiberglassing tips.