DIY Network

Handrail and Kick Plate Karl Champley cures one CATR volunteer's "power-phobia." From "DIY to the Rescue" episode DTTR-703

DIY to the Rescue cures one CATR volunteer of her "power-phobia."

The work continues on the new "loo" at the Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding Facility (CATR). The foundation decking boards for the entrance ramp are installed. What is needed now is a railing. So, Karl Champley shows Megget Lavin, former CATR President, how to install support posts for hand rails. Then, for added safety, they also add kick rails to the base to keep anyone from inadvertently rolling off the edge.

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Materials:

pressure treated wooden posts
pressure treated lumber
shovel
lag bolts
drill
spade bit
nail gun
nails
level
belt sander
concrete mix

Steps:

1. Start by digging holes for the posts. Make sure to dig them deep enough for plenty of stability and make sure they are all dug at the same depth (figure A). Spacing the holes about 2 ½ feet apart, this will give the rail added stability.

2. Then using a spade bit, drill holes for the lag bolts (figure B). The spade bit creates a hole for countersinking the lag bolts into the posts. The lag bolts will go all the way through the posts and into the side of the joists.

Figure A

Figure B

3. Place the posts in the holes and check that they are both level and plumb (figure C). Then permanently secure them to the deck using the lag bolts (figure D).

Tip: When working alone, driving temporary support nails hold the posts can help to balance and keep unwieldy pieces of lumber in place.

Figure C

Figure D

4. Next install the handrails along the inside of the support posts ( figure E) using a nail gun. To follow the slopes of the ramp, the rails are attached flush with the top of the posts, each plumbed along the way.

5. Add finished wood along the top to cap the handrail (figure F). And, then sand to create a smooth, splinter free surface (figure G).

Figure E

Figure F

Figure G

6. To make the bottom of the railing safe, add the kick rail by attaching a piece of wood on the outside of the deck between each section of posts (figure H). This will serve prevent the wheels of wheelchairs from rolling off the edges of the ramp and landing. Use a second piece of scrap wood as a guide to determine how high off of the landing to place the kick rail (figure I).

7. Finally, for additional stability, be sure to secure the posts will a little concrete in the holes and then back fill with dirt (figure J).

Figure H

Figure I

Figure J

RESOURCES :

For more information on tips for making a home handicap friendly, check out the Americans with Disabilities website at: www.ada.gov.