DIY Network

Railings Custom railings are installed. From "Trade School" episode DTRS-311

Figure A

With the deck floor complete (figure A), Robert builds custom railings. The continuation of the decks support posts serve as mounts for the new railing system.

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1. Robert takes measurements from the two end posts, and then begins laying out two railing beams. After clamping the two boards together, he uses the power drill in coordination with an aluminum jig, perfectly spacing holes to accept the railing balusters (figure B).

2. Based on his measurements for the height of the railings, Robert removes the excess of the support posts using a reciprocating saw (figure C).

Figure B

Figure C

3. Robert clamps the bottom rail to the posts using an underlying wood block for alignment and support (figure D).

4. The offset middle post described in the previous segment again comes into play, so Robert attaches two small wood spacers to compensate before he sets the two railing beams (figure E).

5. To attach the beams, he simply drills them into the support posts (figure F).

Figure D

Figure E

Figure F

6. Robert inserts steel powder-coated balusters into the hole of the attached bottom rail. He then introduces the upper rail--fitting each baluster into the holes (figure G). The rail is set into position by hammering on a beater board (figure H).

7. With the upper rail aligned, Robert clamps it to the support posts, and then attaches it using wood screws (figure I). He attaches another side using the same procedure.

Figure G

Figure H

Figure I

8. Robert finishes the railing system by crafting a top rail. After making out cuts on two 2 x 6's, Robert uses the chop saw to form two 45-degree mitered cuts (figure J). The two boards come together to form a mitered joint on the corner of the railing (figure K).

Figure J

Figure K

9. With the top rail clamped in place, Robert drills several screws through to the top of the support posts (figure L). For added strength, he sets screws horizontally through the miter joint (figure M).

Figure L

Figure M

To complete the deck project, Robert finishes up by constructing a custom flower box and adding a coat of clear stain.

RESOURCES :

The Deck Company
Website: www.thedeckcompanyinc.com