How to Build Custom Deck Railings
More in Outdoors
Highlights:
- Step 1: Remove Excess From Support Posts
- Step 2: Measure and Lay Out Railing Beams
- Step 3: Clamp Bottom Railing to Posts
- Step 4: Attach Necessary Wood Spacers
- Step 5: Drill Beams Into Posts
- Step 6: Insert Balusters
- Step 7: Align Upper Rail and Attach to Support Posts
- Step 8: Craft the Top Rail
- Step 9: Drill Top Rail in Place
Step 1: Remove Excess From Support Posts
Based on the measurements for the height of the railings, remove the excess of the support posts using a reciprocating saw.
Step 2: Measure and Lay Out Railing Beams
Take measurements from the two end posts, and then begin laying out two railing beams. After clamping the two boards together, use the power drill in coordination with an aluminum jig, perfectly spacing holes to accept the railing balusters.
Step 3: Clamp Bottom Railing to Posts
Clamp the bottom rail to the posts using an underlying wood block for alignment and support.
Step 4: Attach Necessary Wood Spacers
Because the middle post is slightly offset, we attach two small wood spacers to compensate before setting the two railing beams.
Step 5: Drill Beams Into Posts
To attach the beams, simply drill them into the support posts.
Step 6: Insert Balusters
Insert steel powder-coated balusters into the hole of the attached bottom rail. Then introduce the upper rail — fitting each baluster into the holes (Image 1). The rail is set into position by hammering on a beater board (Image 2).
Step 7: Align Upper Rail and Attach to Support Posts
With the upper rail aligned, clamp it to the support posts, and then attach it using wood screws. Attach the other side using the same procedure.
Step 8: Craft the Top Rail
Finish the railing system by crafting a top rail. After making cuts on two 2 x 6's, use the miter saw to form two 45-degree mitered cuts (Image 1). The two boards come together to form a mitered joint on the corner of the railing (Image 2).
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