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Deck Stairs From "DIY Home Repair & Remodeling" episode DIR-129

(Continued from page 1)

	Figure S
	Figure T
	Figure U
	Figure V
	Figure W

Installing the Railing

1. Begin installing the railing for the staircase, starting with the bottom railing. Lay the board for the rail on the steps next to the post, and mark the angle against the post at the top and bottom (figure S). Cut the rail with a miter saw. Cut the top rail and baluster holder to the same size.
2. Mark the rails for baluster placement according to local building codes. Most codes stipulate that a 6" ball should be unable to pass between the balusters. If your steps are 10" deep, you can place a baluster on the rise of each step and in the center of each step. To mark for the balusters, lay the top rail and the baluster holder between the two posts on top of the bottom rail. Place a framing square against the step so that the corner fits in the step corner and the leg extends past the tops of the rails. Mark a straight line on the top of the rail boards at each rise. Use the framing square to mark the center balusters as well.
3. Use a spade bit to drill into the marks (figure T). Keep the drill as plumb as possible as you drill. Don't drill all the way through the bottom rail.
4. Attach the bottom rail, baluster holder and top rail. Fit wooden dowels through the holes (figure U).
5. Install a cap on top of the top rail for a finished look (figure V).
6. Install braces to help support the rails between the posts (figure W).

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RESOURCES :
Decking material
California Redwood Association
Website: www.calredwood.org