Whether your installing a composite railing, treated wood railing or a metal deck railing, it's important to keep your deck, porch and balcony safe by installing a structural deck railing when required. Properly installed, a structural railing reduces the risk of injury and gives you peace of mind. Whether you’re installing a deck railing system or a licensed builder is constructing/installing one for you, make sure you know when and why a structural railing is needed.
Structural Deck Railing Requirements
Structural railings used in residential applications must meet specific requirements as outlined in the International Residential Code (IRC). Decks attached to single family detached homes are regulated under the rules of the IRC.
The IRC requires a minimum 36-inch-high railing, from the bottom surface to the top of the rail, for all decks, balconies, or screened enclosures more than 30" off the ground. For child safety, the balusters (vertical infills) or other decorative infill must be spaced less than 4" apart
(a 4-inch-diameter ball should not pass between the balusters).
If you're planning on selling your home, the deck, porch or balcony will need a structural railing installed where required to pass a home inspection.
Most municipalities will require a building permit for the construction of any deck, especially if it's to be attached to the house or it's more than 30 inches above ground. Check your local building codes prior to installing a structural deck railing system.
Structural Deck Railing Requirements
Structural railings used in residential applications must meet specific requirements as outlined in the International Residential Code (IRC). Decks attached to single family detached homes are regulated under the rules of the IRC.
The IRC requires a minimum 36-inch-high railing, from the bottom surface to the top of the rail, for all decks, balconies, or screened enclosures more than 30" off the ground. For child safety, the balusters (vertical infills) or other decorative infill must be spaced less than 4" apart
(a 4-inch-diameter ball should not pass between the balusters).
- Railing must be at least 36" in height.
- Bottom of the rail possess a gap less than 4".
- A stair railing allows up to a 6" diameter gap through the triangle opening formed by the stair riser, stair tread, and bottom rail.
- All deck railing must be able to withstand a 200 lb force anywhere and in any direction along the top of the rail.
- Deck railing balusters are required to resist 50 lbs in a 1' square foot area
- Rail posts should be spaced no greater than 6' apart.
If you're planning on selling your home, the deck, porch or balcony will need a structural railing installed where required to pass a home inspection.
Most municipalities will require a building permit for the construction of any deck, especially if it's to be attached to the house or it's more than 30 inches above ground. Check your local building codes prior to installing a structural deck railing system.
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