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Sturdy railings prevent
deck mishaps -- and your local code probably requires
them if your deck is elevated more than one step above
the ground. To assure structural integrity, the
railing posts must be securely attached to the stairs'
stringers or, in the case of bottom railing posts,
sunk in concrete. |
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Mark the rail position on the posts and remove the damaged
railing. Position the new rail against the inside of the
stairway posts. Align the rail with the top rear corner of
the top post, and with the mark on the lower post. Have a
helper attach the rail temporarily with deck screws. |
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Mark the outline of the post and the deck rail on the back
side of the stairway rail. |
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Use a level or combination square to mark a plumb line at
the bottom end of the stairway rail, then remove the rail. |
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Cut along the marked outlines using a jigsaw or circular
saw. Thoroughly seal the cut ends. |
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Position the stairway rail flush against the top edges of
the posts. Drill 1/8-inch pilot holes, then attach the
rail to the posts with 2 1/2-inch deck screws. |
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 If the deck
railing has a cap, measure and cut a cap for the stairway
rail. Mark the outline of the post on the side of the cap,
and bevel-cut the ends. Position the cap over the stairway
rail so that the edge of the strip is flush with the
inside edge of the rail. Predrill and fasten with deck
screws. |
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RELATED PROJECTS
Replacing a Step
Repairing Decking and
Joists
Replacing a Deck Railing
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