WOOD DECK RAILS IDEAS INSTALL
WOOD DECK RAILS IDEAS CODE

These sections are typically built off-site in a workshop under controlled conditions, so that installation on the job site can be as speedy as possible. Wrought iron and other metal railing systems that do not come in ready-to-install kits will usually require a skilled blacksmith as much welding will be required. All four of these deck railings can be built using pressure treated lumber, another wood like cedar, or composite lumber to provide the structure. The differences is in the type of baluster installed.

WOOD DECK RAILS IDEAS INSTALL

Mountain laurel handrail, glass baluster systems, metal baluster systems, and composite railing systems all install in a similar manner. Mountain Laurel Railings are curved to match a circular deck on a log home. The 2圆 should be fastened with screws to the posts and 2x4 boards for the most rigidity. Then a 2圆 is installed horizontally across the top of the posts and to 2x4. Then the vertical 2x2 pressure treated wood balusters are installed spaced regularly every 3.5'. The top board is placed with the top at 35' from the deck.

The lower board is placed 3.5' from the top of the finish deck to the bottom of the board. In between the posts, two 2x4s are attached to the posts with screws for the best connection. These posts give structural support to the railing assembly and are the most critical part for the safety of the guard rail assembly. Posts on a deck are also typically pressure treated wood and standard sizes are 4x4, 6圆, and 8x8. The typical deck railing is generally built from pressure treated lumber. Deck railing construction Cable Railing on Residential Deck overlooking a Lake Other common requirements are that no space on the railing be greater than that through which a 4' sphere could pass and that the railing assembly be able to withstand a load of 50 pounds per square foot.

WOOD DECK RAILS IDEAS CODE

Most areas in the world that use a variation of the International Building Code require a guard rail if there is a difference of 30' or more between platforms. Deck railing and building code īuilding code varies on the national, state, county and municipal level. Ornamental cast-iron railing was popular in the latter half of the 19th century and it is often associated with the Victorian style and with the traditional architecture of American coastal southern cities like Savannah and New Orleans. Other options include wrought iron and sheet steel, into which custom designs can be cut. There are, however, cleaning, security, and wildlife protection issues. All-glass railing without a top rail can be used to maximize the effect. Glass balusters and glass panels are often used at contemporary architectural projects where unobstructed view is important. Contemporary frame systems use plastic-coated steel cables. Stainless-steel cable and fasteners are strong and don’t obscure the view. Ĭable railings typically use stainless steel cables strung horizontally. A popular alternative to wood railing is composite lumber and PVC railing. Wood railing could be in different styles such as Victorian, Chippendale railing and others. The most common residential deck railing design is built on-site using pressure treated lumber, with the vertical balusters regularly spaced to meet building code. Over time, many different styles of deck railing have been developed.ĭeck railing designs Mountain laurel railings on a timber frame porch. There are also codes for open-rail systems and requirements for the spacing of vertical pillars or balusters.Deck railing is a guard rail to prevent people falling from decks, stairs and balconies of buildings. A railing system is usually required for any deck or porch that is more than 30 inches above the ground and your railing must be at least 36 inches tall. You’ll also want to take maintenance into account when selecting a deck railing material wood, for example, will require regular staining and sealing.īefore beginning any deck project, check local building codes for railing height and spacing requirements. Woods suitable for railings include cedar, white oak, redwood and pressure-treated wood. Wood, metal or vinyl deck rails can add privacy and a decorative touch, while glass or cable rails offer a sleek, modern look that won’t obstruct any views. When choosing a railing for your deck, consider whether you want it to be a focal point of your outdoor living space or if you prefer a less conspicuous style that lets your home’s surrounding scenery stand out. An important feature of a deck’s design, the railing provides safety, privacy and style.

Wood deck rails ideas