Deck Railing Code

You need to install a gripable / graspable handrail on one side of the deck stairs when you have four or more steps / treads or when your deck is elevated more than 30 inches off the ground. (R311.7 2009 IRC book)

Gripable / graspable secondary handrails are required by more and more building codes / deck codes in areas across the country, so please refer to your local building code.

Deckorators features an attractive secondary handrail system in its deck railing products lineup.

A cap rail is NOT considered a secondary handrail.

Deckorators tropical hardwood cap rail is not considered a gripable handrail. Deckorators cap rail is an add-on accessory piece installed on the horizontal top portion of the Deckorators aluminum deck railing.

If you're having your deck built or doing it yourself, deck building requires planning and forethought. Even the best deck plans can get off to a bad start if you don’t understand how your deck construction components fit together.

Deckorators offers special connection products to make installing these glass baluster infills on a wood deck rail quick and easy. A few easy steps will get your deck rail up and looking good in no time.

Before you install Deckorators Scenic Glass Deck Balusters, check with your local building inspector to verify the product made with 5/16-inch tempered safety glass matches code requirements. Your inspector can also guide you on the proper baluster spacing for deck rail construction in your area.

STEP 1: Measure and Cut
Two different rail configurations may be chosen when incorporating Scenic Glass Balusters in your deck project. If you are using 6x6-inch posts, twin top and bottom rails should be built with 2x4 lumber.

If you’re using 4x4-inch posts, choose 1-1/4-inch lumber for the twin rail construction.

STEP 2: Determine Openings
First measure the rail opening, post to post. Attach outside top and bottom rails to the posts. Scenic Balusters will be installed between two rails on the top and bottom.

Check local building codes for railing to post attaching guidelines. Keep in mind that 6 feet is the maximum recommended span for railings.

STEP 3: Connect Balusters
Measure and mark the center point between rail posts, both on the top and bottom rail.

Using a cordless drill, attach the first baluster with the stainless steel screws provided to the inside of the top and bottom rails. Turn screws only until rubber grommet starts to mushroom. Use caution not to over- tighten.

STEP 4: Placing deck rails
Choose a separator board, possibly a 2x4, which creates a 3-1/2-inch spacing between each baluster. Mark for installation of remaining glass balusters. Ideally, spacing will remain consistent across the length of the rails for the best appearance. When you have a pleasing spacing, attach the remaining balusters with provided screws.

STEP 5: Inspect
Install the inside top rail, covering the top of the balusters. This board should be attached directly to the 1st board that has the glass attached to it. It will not attach directly to the scenic glass balusters.

Install the inside bottom rail, same as above and add a rail cap to give the railing a professional, finished look.

See complete detailed instructions with illustrations here.

Using other deck baluster styles? View this blog post on proper baluster spacing.

See Deckorators full line of deck railing balusters.

Blocking a treated wood deck post is critically important for making sure your wood railing, composite lumber railing or metal deck railing stays secure for the life of the deck. Blocking/bridging is installed into the side framing mainly to control lateral movement. If you have to run handrail in the direction of the joists, use blocking to create your box and bolt through the post and the blocks. The bridge will help keep the outside joist from deflecting when you lean on the handrail.

Installing a post when the railing runs parallel to the joists
First mark the location of the post with a carpenter's pencil on the interior rim joist. The next step in securing your 4x4 or 6x6 lumber deck post is to measure the distance between your outer rim/band joist and your first interior joist beam. Pre-cut two pieces of pressure treated 2x6, 2x8 or 2x10 wood blocking (often cut from scrap) to a length that will fit loosely between the joists. If the cut pieces have to be pounded into place, cut an 1/8- to 1/4-inch to avoid bowing the joists. Each piece will roughly measure 14½ inches long for joists installed 16 inches on center.

Next, place the treated wood blocking on both sides of the deck rail post markings. Nail the blocking in place with two galvanized nails at each end. Measure, cut and install a small piece of wood blocking as a cross member which completes the box. Make sure this small piece fits into place easily then secure with two galvanized nails on each end.

Fit the pre-cut deck rail post into place while making sure it sits flush with the bottom of the outer rim joist. Tack the post into place with two nails on each side (or use a clamp)

Next, drill ½-inch pilot holes and install two ½-inch galvanized carriage bolts (approximately 8 inches long) and matching washers and nuts (do not over-tighten). The pilot holes should be positioned no closer than one inch from the top and bottom of the joist edge for maximum reinforcement.

Installing a post when the railing runs perpendicular to the joists
This method is similar to the parallel install version except you need to install only one cross-member – as seen in image two.

In both cases use a post level to make sure each post is plumb. Insert a shim if needed prior to cinching the carriage bolts.

By installing the rail post into the framing and then blocking around the post, it makes a for a more sturdy and durable connection, which in my opinion works best.

As always, check your local building codes to make sure this deck post installation method is acceptable in your area.

With summer winding down and cooler weather approaching, it’s a great time to think about upgrading your treated wood or composite lumber deck. Updating your deck’s railing is one of the easiest, most versatile ways to make your outdoor living area unique and more appealing.

If you’ve never really thought about the function and design of your deck railing, keep in mind a few key points:

• Railing is an important safety feature, especially if your deck is several feet off the ground. It’s important to maintain a code-compliant deck railing to ensure it provides adequate protection against potential falls.
• A deck handrail is one of the most prominent features of any deck, and updating it is a cost-effective way to make an eye-catching design statement.
• Deck railing material doesn’t have to match your deck material. Have a wood deck? It’s perfectly okay to upgrade your deck with metal or vinyl railing.

If you’re ready to upgrade your railing, you have several design decisions to consider:

See these blog posts for updating your deck railing:
What is the best deck railing material for your needs?
What style of deck railing balusters are available?
What decorative elements can you add to a deck railing?

As a savvy homeowner you're always looking for something new and different—and you should be, too! If you're willing to do a little exploring, you can create or renovate a composite deck or lumber deck that positively sizzles with visual and functional appeal in your outdoor living space.

Suggest creating multiple levels. Perhaps an embedded inset for visual appeal. And why settle for straight lines and predictable runs? How about incorporating sweeping curves or compound angles with your deck planks? Create contrast with complimentary deck board colors and reversible textures. A grill bump-out could keep young fingers out of heat's reach and add more usable space. An outdoor kitchen or fire pit area with inset deck stones will add functionality and interest.

Deck Railing Ideas
When you're done with basic design, start thinking about the nuances and finishing touches that really make a deck sing. Deckorators has code approved aluminum railing kits and deck handrails, balusters, post caps and lighting in a wide range of styles and colors. You'll have no problem finding the right accessories for any deck railing design. More deck railing ideas in this blog.

A new or rehabbed deck project is a rare chance for you to make profound changes to your outdoor living environment. Start a project today!

Pool Deck Safety: Build smart. Keep safe.
Most municipalities have safety regulations governing what you use around your pool, such as privacy fencing and deck railing, to restrict open access. Before you begin construction on your pool deck, be sure to check your local building codes. Pool deck lighting requirements should also be considered (solar post caps and low-voltage deck lighting from Deckorators can help address these) as well as gate latch/lock requirements.

A graspable secondary handrail is an important component to consider when planning a deck with stairs. So whether you're constructing a residential composite deck, lumber deck or a deck made from other decking material, you're typically required to install a graspable secondary handrail on one side of the deck's stair railing when there are four or more stair risers present.

Key Residential Stair Handrail Requirements (IRC - International Residential Code)

1. Stairways having four or more risers, or rising more than 30 inches in height, whichever is less, must have at least one grab rail.
2. Handrails with a circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of at least 1-1/4 inches and not greater than 2 inches. If the handrail is not circular it shall have a perimeter dimension of at least 4 inches and not greater than 6-1/4 inches with a maximum cross section of dimension of 2-1/4 inches.
3. The grab rail must terminate at the newel post (top and bottom posts).
4. Clear space between a handrail and a wall or other surface shall be a minimum of 1-1/2 inches.
5. The height of handrails must be installed 34 inches - 38 inches from the upper surface of the handrail to the surface of the tread.

Graspable secondary handrails are required by more and more building codes / deck codes in areas across the country. Both Deckorators and Latitudes brands feature a secondary handrail system in their respective deck railing products lineups.

These attractive and highly versatile graspable handrails are ideal for meeting building codes when required. Made of heavy gauge aluminum and durable PVC, these systems include five different radius elbows and several styles of returns to meet every possible installation. The railing is available in three colors (adobe, tan and white) to complement a homes exterior.

Check out the American Wood Council's "Design for Code Acceptance" document for complete details. Stair handrail requirements are outlined on page 18.

Looking to distribute secondary handrails or components? Look to Waymark to supply all your fence and railing accessories.

If summer’s approach has you thinking it’s time to remodel a deck, you might be looking for a cost-effective, high-impact way to do it. Taking your deck’s railings to the next level could be your solution.

Deck railing is more than just a safety feature to keep guests and kids from a nasty fall. It can also make a powerful design statement. Railing kits can make it easy to upgrade your deck with a whole new look.

Consider these railing upgrades:

Balusters
You have more choices and alternatives than ever when it comes to spicing up deck balusters. Aluminum balusters allow you to introduce curves, angles and interest into your deck design. They’re available in Classic, Colonial, Architectural, Estate and Traditional designs from Deckorators.

Create a true one-of-a-kind railing infill design using Deckorators Duo Connectors along with Classic or Estate Balusters.

Deckorators also offers scenic glass balusters. The clear, unobstructed view afforded by glass can make a deck seem more spacious. Deckorators sells them in two shapes: Frontier, which is straight with a beveled edge, and Contour, a graceful hourglass-shaped design.

Post caps
One of the easiest ways to add interest to deck railings is with ornamental post caps. Installing them can be as simple as applying glue to the top of the post and putting the cap in place. They’re a great way to dress up a railing without completely replacing it.

Ornamental post caps come in glass, metal, wood and planter styles. Solar post caps add another layer of interest by providing good looks and gentle illumination at night. They’re available in glass and metal styles.

Aluminum deck railing
If you’re slightly more ambitious and want a railing that combines good looks with enhanced durability, consider replacing wooden railing with aluminum deck railing. You’ll have a wealth of colors and design options to choose from, and the added satisfaction of knowing you’re enhancing your deck with a railing that will last years longer than a wooden one would. An added bonus – Deckorators code approved aluminum deck railing kit is compatible with all their decorative baluster styles, so your design options are limited only by your imagination!

Thanks to innovative railing options, it’s easier than ever to do a deck remodel. Your hardest task might be deciding just which great look to choose!

See my blog featuring a video on how to install Deckorators aluminum railing system.

Prior to installing Deckorators aluminum deck rail kit, you may want to contact your local municipality about code requirements for both the height of the upper railing as measured from the deck surface and the open area from the bottom of the lower rail to the deck surface (known as the sweep). I’ll tell you about the standard ranges but keep in mind your local code could be different.

Due to the dozens of attractive Deckorators options, the most challenging part of this process is not the installation – it’s picking the type of baluster and the color. Deckorators originated the decorative balusters category and has provided innovative railing solutions for over a decade. Deckorators all-aluminum railing is specifically designed for use with all Deckorators baluster styles.

Important to note—there are two types of balusters: those that fit between the lower and upper rail and those that face mount to the side of the rails. If you elect to go with balusters between the rails, the holes for the connectors are pre-drilled here in the upper and lower rails. For those that attach to the side of the rails, simply turn the pre-drilled holes downward on the top and bottom rails so the rails don’t take on any precipitation.

Deckorators railing material has a lifetime warranty. It’s made of long-lasting aluminum, which does not rust and makes it ultra-low maintenance. It has a powder coated finish, which looks great, but can get scratched if you’re careless unwrapping and when you’re cutting or drilling. Be careful to not set the pieces down on any metal shavings. Keep your work area free of debris.

Prior to installing the deck railing, there’s a checklist to follow with your existing deck. This post sleeve is meant to fit over posts that are plumb -- not twisted or damaged. Replace the post if necessary. And structural support must come from the continuation of the deck support posts that extend up through the decking or from railing posts bolted to the inside of the rim or outer joists. Railing posts cannot be more than 6 feet apart (on-center).

Once you’ve determined that the posts are good to go, you’ll need to trim the post sleeves to length with a chop saw or circular saw. A carbide-tipped blade works best. Basically, sleeves should be 1-1/2” longer than the rail height. Common rail height is either 36 or 42 inches. However, if you’re installing the optional rail, you’ll need another 1-1/2” of sleeve.

It’s important to note that some wood preservatives may cause an undesirable reaction with aluminum, especially the raw aluminum edge. To prevent this, we have a liner inside the post sleeve and for the raw edge, I recommend shimming or caulking the bottom edge of the post sleeve. After caulking, install the post base trim.

Now it’s time to install the rails and balusters. To determine the length of the top and bottom rails, measure the distance between the installed post sleeves and then remove an additional quarter inch on each end to accommodate the bracket.

For spacing the balusters, Deckorators makes it a snap with pre-drilled holes in the top and bottom rails.

The idea is to try to match the uniform spacing between balusters to the spacing between the end balusters and the posts. To get the proper look, you want the greatest distance possible without exceeding 3-7/8”. To accomplish this, either line up the middle baluster with the center mark or, for spans less than 6 feet on center, line up the space between the balusters at the centerline.

Baluster connectors are secured with a screw on both the top and bottom rails. Be careful you don’t overtighten the screws. And do not insert the balusters until the bottom rail is installed within the brackets mounted on the posts.

To install the brackets, position the bottom rail by using a couple of 2x4 blocks placed under each end of the rail. Spacing of 3” is recommended for the distance between the deck and the bottom of the rail. This is called the sweep and may vary with local building codes. With the bottom rail in position, mark the location of the bracket on both posts. Then pre-drill through the sleeve only using a ¼” drill bit.

Before installing the bottom rail, you’ll need to attach a support block (or foot), cut to size, at the center line.

As noted earlier, some Deckorators balusters are attached on the face of the rails, in which case you would turn down the pre-drilled holes and mark the center line between the two posts. Then, either line up the center baluster or the center of the opening between two balusters. Remember that you want equal end spacing between the last baluster and the post and you don’t want this opening to be greater than 3-7/8”. Now you’re ready to drill the holes for each baluster. For spacing each baluster, I recommend using a small stud block, which is 3-1/2” wide.

The next step is to position and install the top brackets in the same fashion – being careful to pre-drill the bracket holes through the sleeve only. Now before installing the balusters, apply a little adhesive on the outside of the connector or inside the baluster to prevent any turning or rattling in the wind. For balusters that fit inside the rails, simply lower the top rail into position and connect the balusters, gently using a rubber mallet if necessary to eliminate gaps.

An option for a finished look is the cap rail. Cut the cap rail and cap rail insert to length. Something to keep in mind: the cap rail will be ½” longer than the top and bottom rails. Center the cap rail insert on top of the top rail and pre-drill 7 pilot holes for our 6’ span. Screw in the cap rail insert and apply construction adhesive. Situate the cap rail over the cap rail insert by pressing down from one end to the other until it snaps into place. Gently tap with a rubber mallet if needed.

Last item is attaching post caps, which are easily installed using construction adhesive. Choose from pyramid-style or solar post caps if you want to add ambient lighting to your project. Deckorators is the original and finest name in quality post caps.

Now, You should be ready to tackle your Deckorators railing installation with confidence. Be sure to follow the written instructions for recommended drill bit sizes and screws. And remember that deck stair railing kits are also available.

Download step-by-step instructions (PDF file) or see a video.

Deckorators, the originator of the round aluminum baluster, has designed and launched the Duo Connector™, a patent-pending baluster connector that broadens the deck baluster / infill category for deck railing.

Arched Duo Connector allows deck builders to create distinct infill designs using existing Deckorators Classic round deck balusters. Square Duo Connector allows you to create a unique modern infill design using Estate square aluminum balusters. Duo Connector installs easily into both the Deckorators 2x4 code-compliant aluminum railing, as well as on wood and composite deck railing. Connectors are available in powder-coated black, white and bronze, and have compatible stair rail adapters.

The uniquely-designed Duo Connector is another example of how Deckorators continues to be the industry-leading deck railing products brand.

For more details, see the Duo Connector news release in the Deckorators Newsroom.

Deckorators, the leading brand of deck and fence accessories, has designed and introduced the first tropical hardwood cap rail for its aluminum deck railing system. Also, several new compatible solar, Tiffany-style glass and metal post cap accessories have been added to the aluminum railing system. 

Deckorators aluminum railing system with tropical hardwood cap rail is available in code-compliant 6-foot deck railing kit and an all-new 8-foot kit. The innovative cap and rail insert system allows installers to snap on the cap rail without visible fasteners. The tropical hardwood cap rail features a moulded appearance and is finished with an oil-based stain.

“The number of choices within the Deckorators lineup is a testament to our commitment to providing unique, attractive deck railing options and accessories in our offering,” said John Hess, director of sales for Universal Consumer Products. “The tropical hardwood cap rail for the Deckorators aluminum railing system provides a stylish appearance, which will appeal to deck builders and homeowners alike.”

Available in spring 2011, the new tropical cap rail kit and aluminum railing post caps will be showcased at the International Builders’ Show.

Deckorators deck, railing and fence accessories are available through an established network of building material retailers in the United States and Canada. Visit www.deckorators.com for complete information.

Deckorators aluminum deck railing has passed both the 2006 and 2009 International Building Code and International Residential Building Code for its 6-foot railing system in 36- and 42-inch heights.

A code-compliant research report (CCRR) issued by Architectural Testing provides the evidence, technical information and professional evaluation that a building official relies upon to determine that a product, component or construction method complies with specific building codes. The issuance of CCRR-0161 offers extra assurance to building material dealers, contractors and homeowners that the Deckorators aluminum railing system has been tested by a third-party and will perform as designed.

“The building code report is critical to generating new business,” said John Hess, director of sales for Universal Consumer Products. “This report will help improve our ability to drive sales of the Deckorators aluminum railing system, especially where code-compliant railings are required.”

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accreditation is widely accepted among building code officials. The Architectural Testing Code Compliance Research Report is accredited by ANSI as a product certification program. The code compliance research report (CCRR-0161) issued by Architectural Testing (ATI) can be viewed, downloaded and printed from the Deckorators website (see report).

About Deckorators Integrated Aluminum Railing System
The sleek, durable top profile creates an eye-catching appearance and is compatible with all Deckorators baluster styles. This innovative deck railing system is available in powder-coated black or white and features a lifetime limited warranty. The rails are sold in kits to make purchasing simple. Post sleeves, stair rail bracket kits, angled brackets and matching post caps are also available. All kits can be shipped via UPS to the job site.

• loose connections like wobbly deck railing and railing balusters
• missing connections — the wood ledger board is not properly fastened to the house
• treated lumber is corroded
• rotted deck boards or deck railing
• cracks in either the deck boards or the supporting structure

1. Railing must be at least 36" in height.
2. Bottom of the rail possess a gap less than 4".
3. A stair railing allows up to a 6" diameter gap through the triangle opening formed by the stair riser, stair tread, and bottom rail.
4. All deck railing must be able to withstand a 200 lb force anywhere and in any direction along the top of the rail.
5. Deck railing balusters are required to resist 50 lbs in a 1' square foot area
6. Rail posts should be spaced no greater than 6' apart.