Solar Deck Post Caps

Now that warm weather has arrived, you’ll be outside more; your outdoor space should be an area that you truly enjoy and are proud to show off to guests. You may not need a complete deck remodel to achieve that level of perfection. With some smart deck upgrades you can create an upscale look for less.

Start by looking at the deck railing itself. More than just a safety feature, the railing is one of the most prominent design elements of any deck, and changing it is a cost-effective way to make an eye-catching statement.

Remember, your railing doesn’t have to match your current deck material. If you have a wood deck that doesn’t necessarily mean you need wood railings. Think outside the box and blend different colors and materials - such as aluminum, glass and composite - for a complementary look that increases the aesthetic appeal of the entire house.

Aluminum railings are increasingly popular because they allow homeowners to introduce curves and angles to their deck design. Durable yet lightweight, aluminum won’t rot or corrode, making it a good choice for the outdoors. One example is Deckorators aluminum railing kits, which come in a variety of designs that are black or white powder-coated to weather the elements, plus they’re backed by a lifetime limited warranty.

If you like the look of wood, but want something more durable without the maintenance hassles, consider railings made from composite materials - Deckorators CXT Railing. With a look that emulates real painted wood, this composite deck railing option won't split, warp, rot or suffer from insect infestation.

While you’re researching railings, it’s wise to also look at balusters – the railing spindles – and decide what styles you like best. You can mix and match with your railing materials to get a one-of-a-kind look. Metal and aluminum balusters are popular and come in many shapes, styles, colors and sizes.

If you really want a distinctive look for your outdoor space, consider glass balusters. This is a particularly great option for decks with grand views, since the glass allows you to enjoy the landscape without the visual obstruction of traditional railing infills.

To create a dramatic appearance, consider adding a design to deck posts. Decorative postcovers enhance the personality of your deck by providing a stone pillar appearance to the entire length of each post. Deckorators cast stone postcovers fit over standard 4-by-4 or 6-by-6 wood posts corners of deck railing, and provide a realistic appearance of authentic stone, giving decks an upscale look at a fraction of the cost.

Finalize your deck upgrades with some decorative elements. Deck railing accessories can add the perfect stylish touch to any outdoor space. Decorative post caps, for example, install quickly and easily, changing the look of any railing to suit your design tastes. Ornamental post caps come in glass, metal, wood and planter styles. Some even feature solar lighting that provide a beautiful ambiance after the sun sets.  

Some simple changes to your current deck structure can take it from drab to fab without the cost of a complete remodel. Explore your options today to create a deck you’ll enjoy for many seasons to come.

See past blog post on "Features to consider when creating a living space on a deck."

See Deckorators collection of deck railing photos on Flickr.

It’s that time of year when homeowners are lured outside by the warm, sunny weather. Is your outdoor space ready to be enjoyed to the fullest? If your deck or patio needs updating, catching up on the top design innovations and trends will help you create an inviting area that will add value to your home investment.

This year’s leading trends focus on blending functionality with beauty to construct a stylish and usable space that requires little maintenance. To create the best outdoor space on the block, consider these popular ideas for your home.

Decorative post caps
A big trend in decking is beautification – taking your functional space and adding stylish elements that produce visual appeal. One easy way to incorporate this trend is by installing post caps. Mounted at the highest point on the railing, post caps are one of the most prominent features of any deck or patio. Deck and fence post caps like Deckorators VersaCaps give a polished, upscale look for your outdoor space. These one-size-fits-all caps have nested inserts that are compatible with wood, composite and vinyl posts, making installation simple. They come in a variety of colors and many are available with a built-in solar light. These unique post embellishments are sure to fit your color palette and will enhance your overall outdoor design aesthetic.

Fascia corners
Corner joints can separate over time, creating unsightly gaps. If you're looking for an easy way to spruce up your current deck, consider adding decorative fascia corners. Simple and unique, decorative fascia corners are an elegant way to adorn deck skirting and cover corner joint connections. Deckorators also offers two black powder-coated fascia corner designs - ridge and leaf - that install easily with screws. Fascia corners are an easy way to capture your own personal style while complementing your home's architecture.

Outdoor lighting
Incorporating lighting into your deck area is a big trend because it extends the time you are able to spend in your outdoor space. It also adds an element of safety in a visually pleasing manner. Look for solar powered lights to continue to be popular - you'll find this sun-powered option on numerous outdoor items such as string lights and fountains. Recessed deck lights are another popular lighting option - perfect for stairs because they softly illuminate steps once the sun has gone down.

Multifunctional furniture
Furnishing outdoor space is essential for creating a relaxing, comfortable environment, but it is also a big investment. That’s why more people are looking for multifunctional options that provide a variety of benefits. For example an outdoor sectional can serve as a large couch or be separated for multiple sitting areas. A small table serves double duty when it opens for hidden storage. An outdoor umbrella with solar lights provides shade during the day and soft light at night for easy all-day entertaining.   

Composite lumber decking
If it's time to replace your whole deck, you might want to consider using composite lumber decking in your new design. Composite decking continues to grow in popularity due to its low maintenance and durability. Today's composite decking is much different than past options because the designs closely mimic the natural look of wood. Latitudes composite decking, for example, features a more natural-looking surface with a realistic grain pattern available in a variety of colors. Plus it's backed by a 25-year stain and fade warranty, so it's guaranteed to look great on your home for a long time,
making it a wise investment.

By incorporating these top trends not only will you have a great outdoor space this year, but for many years to come.

Deckorators CXT Deck Railing is co-extruded from two layers of materials—making this one beautiful and tough railing system. The core is made with Strandex—the most tested and trusted composite technology—while the outer cap-stock layer gives CXT Composite Deck Railing the look of painted wood and makes it ultra scratch- and weather-resistant. Deckorators CXT code-compliant deck railing is available in white, black and bronze colors and boasts a 20-year limited warranty for piece of mind.

Deckorators CXT Deck Railing Installation Video

The unique "U-Bracket" design provides a fastener-free look and makes installation easy, especially on stair rail applications. Pre-drilled rails increase the speed of installation by taking the guesswork out of baluster spacing.

Available in two distinct profiles, Contemporary and Colonial, the CXT railing is offered in 6- and 8-foot lengths and in 36- and 42-inch installed heights. The unique “U-Bracket” design provides a fastener-free look and makes installation easy, especially on stair rail applications. Pre-drilled rails increase the speed of installation by taking the guesswork out of baluster spacing.

Best of all, Deckorators CXT railing allows deck builders to work with several popular Deckorators railing baluster infills and deck post accessories. In addition, Deckorators offers four eye-catching post cap styles, including Tiffany-style Mission Glass, Copper, Solar and Traditional.

See a 360 degree view video of the CXT Deck Railing from the International Builders' Show in this blog post.

Over the years Deckorators has built a solid brand reputation by offering innovation, durable deck railing accessories like balusters and post caps. Now Deckorators has broadened its product range to include CXT co-extruded composite deck railing kits and aluminum deck railing kits.

Showcased in the Deckorators booth at the 2012 Builders' Show in Orlando, both Deckorators CXT Railing System and Aluminum Railing System were highlighted using an assortment of Deckorators brand balusters, including the new copper colored round baluster, solar post caps and hardwood cap railing and Duo Connectors on the aluminum railing. See video.

Deckorators railing systems are designed to allow builders to incorporate all styles of Deckorators  baluster infills and post accessories into a project.

About Deckorators CXT Deck Railing
Available in two distinct profiles, Contemporary and Colonial, the CXT railing is offered in 6- and 8-foot lengths and in 36- and 42-inch installed heights. The unique “U-Bracket” design provides a fastener-free look and makes installation easy, especially on stair rail applications. Pre-drilled rails increase the speed of installation by taking the guesswork out of baluster spacing.

About Deckorators Aluminum Deck Railing
Deckorators aluminum railing offers a durable black or white powder-coated finish that weathers the elements. The aluminum railing system with a robust profile and eye-catching appearance is backed by a lifetime limited warranty, designed to work with all Deckorators baluster styles, and available in 36- and 42-inch rail heights and both 6' and 8' lengths.

About Deckorators
Deckorators is the first name in deck railing and accessories and the originator of the round aluminum baluster. The pioneering spirit behind the brand has kept the Deckorators name on the leading edge of designing products that create beautiful and unique decks. The brand started the low-maintenance aluminum balusters category with the Classic Series and has since led the industry with innovative products: Colonial balusters, offering the look of traditional colonial times; Architectural balusters, with the beautiful appearance of hand-forged wrought iron; accessories that provide the special accents needed to customize the look of your deck; Connector Series installation products that make installing Deckorators balusters simple and easy. The company’s approach to developing exciting and distinctive deck rail and railing products allows customers the opportunity to express themselves on their deck as they do in their home.

See all Deckorators 2012 Builders' Show featured product video clips.

Deckorators, the nation’s leading brand of deck balusters and decorative railing accessories, has introduced another industry first called VersaCaps™ — decorative post caps with nested inserts that allow for a snug fit over the most common size deck and fence posts.

With new VersaCaps, post size is no longer a barrier when choosing the right post cap for your project. VersaCaps come with three inserts perfectly nested inside the base, making them adaptable for virtually any post ranging from 3-1/2”x3-1/2” to 4-5/8”x4-5/8”.  The true-fitting nested inserts take the guesswork out of matching up proper post cap size. VersaCaps are compatible with wood, composite and vinyl posts and are available in traditional solar, solar band and high point pyramid options and in a variety of colors.

Deckorators full line of VersaCaps will be available in the spring of 2012 and showcased in the Deckorators booth (W429) during the International Builders’ Show in Orlando.

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.

Adding a built-in bench to your deck seating area evokes the charm and convenience of a window seat while providing additional seating for family gatherings and entertaining.

You can enhance the cozy atmosphere of your outdoor family room with the addition of a fire pit. If adding to a deck, define the space for your chiminea or fire pit and protect your deck by using Latitudes Deck Stones. Available in 16-inch square Smoke slate or Riverstone granite tiles, the deck stones interlock, self-drain, require no mortar and can easily be installed on new or existing conventional wood-framed decks. See Deck Stones installation video.

Lighting is another key element of your indoor family room, and it’s just as important in your outdoor space. Versatile outdoor lighting is not only an important deck safety feature; it can help create the perfect ambiance for evening entertaining. Deckorators recessed deck lighting kits are ideal for building into stairs, step-downs, doorways or wherever else you need ambient lighting.

Another way to create mood with light is by adding solar post caps on your deck railing. Available from Deckorators in glass or metal, these solar-powered post caps can illuminate a rail or fence post while creating a warm, comforting glow.

Create a spa-like feel by incorporating a decorative garden area complete with a water feature. Add plantings that provide a splash of color and fragrance along with functionality. Water features provide a subtle, calming sound and can also help soften unwanted noise caused by roads and other sources. Use various plant types to create space definition, cover from wind and sun or a sense of seclusion and visual privacy. Add a bird bath, like the serpentine jade version from Outdoor Essentials, to get the birds singing.

With just a few simple enhancements and the right accessories, you can turn your outdoor space into an outdoor family room the whole family will enjoy.

See blog on landscaping on and around a deck

• add unique features to railing with decorative post caps or postcovers
• incorporate metal or glass baluster infills to your deck rail
• built in bench seating
• incorporate deck stone transitions
• install low-voltage or solar deck lighting
• place colorful plants on your deck and stairs
• incorporate colorful outdoor furniture
• add a portable water feature or fire bowl

DIYer/homeowner, Dan Simpson of Manchester, New Hampshire recently constructed a masterpiece deck using Deckorators CXT Railing while incorporating compatible Deckorators glass balusters and solar post caps for great looks and safety.

"I'm very happy with the railing and have received nothing but compliments," said Mr. Simpson.

About Deckorators CXT Deck Railing System
Deckorators CXT deck railing emulates the look of real painted wood and combines proven Strandex® technology on the interior with an ultralow-maintenance exterior cap stock for long-term durability and strength. Deckorators CXT Railing boasts a 20-year limited warranty.

Available in two distinct profiles, Contemporary and Colonial, the CXT railing is offered in 6- and 8-foot lengths and in 36- and 42-inch installed heights. The unique “U-Bracket” design provides a fastener-free look and makes installation easy, especially on stair rail applications. Pre-drilled rails increase the speed of installation by taking the guesswork out of baluster spacing.

Best of all, Deckorators CXT Railing allows deck builders to work with several popular Deckorators railing baluster infills and post accessories. In addition, Deckorators offers four eye-catching post cap styles, including Tiffany-style Mission Glass, Copper, Solar and Traditional.

When a friend was looking to spruce up the posts of his treated lumber deck, he was looking for an easy, high-impact option that was both functional and eye-catching. So, I recommended the Deckorators brand of metal post caps. Deckorators has some unique solar deck lighting options to choose from and the convertible solar post cap was the perfect choice.

For this particular deck lighting need, we went with a round copper post cap that sits atop the deck’s 4x4 railing posts. The post cap is referred to as a convertible post cap because it provides a deck with ambient lighting at night, using either the solar cell (included) or a lit candle.

The top of the convertible post cap lifts off so you can set a candle inside. The smooth copper finish makes the deck and outdoor living space look more refined and the lighting is just what this deck area needed.

Looking for post cap options that inspire you to update your deck railing? Visit deckorators.com or check out some of my past blog posts on post caps:

• Dress up a deck with post caps
• Illuminate with solar post caps
• Add function and beauty with post caps

Typically, you’re going to build your treated lumber deck, tropical hardwood deck or composite lumber deck wherever your pool is. But how will you connect that pool deck to the house? Your objective is to provide swimmers with easy access to the pool, without losing the appropriate scale for your backyard space.

Choose a pool that works for your area. The size and style of your pool and pool deck will help shape your pool entertainment area. Adding a combination of functional add-ons like Deckorators low voltage deck lights and solar-lit post caps, privacy lattice, stepping stones and attractive landscaping will make your pool deck area inviting to guests.

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.

Enjoying your deck is definitely a high point of summer. But if you really want to ice the cake and put a big cherry on top, you need great landscaping to go with that awesome deck.

Landscaping on and around you deck not only adds to the deck’s visual appeal, it can enhance usability. Many landscaping improvements are easy enough to be done in one weekend.

Here are some deck design ideas to create the perfect environment on and around your deck:
Planter post caps
Made of cast stone, Deckorators’ planter post caps add the charm of flowers and greenery to a deck. Available in copper round and square black finishes, these unique post caps fit standard 4 x 4 or 6 x 6 wood posts. A drain hole ensures plants thrive longer. Helpful hint: Since decks get a lot of sun throughout the day, fill your planter post caps with flowers that thrive in full sun. Fill and strategically position flower pots, railing planters and hanging baskets accordingly…

Stylish stepping stones
Stepping stones are both beautiful and practical. Arts and Crafts-style stepping stones create an exotic look in your yard or garden and provide a smooth, level walking surface leading up to your deck. Outdoor Essentials offers them in smooth serpentine jade stone or hand-crafted Tiffany-style serpentine jade pieces.

Garden post caps
If you’ve put a lot of work into landscaping around a deck, you’ll want a smart, good-looking way to protect it. Garden post caps fit the bill, adding decorative flair to very functional garden posts. The posts help define a boundary between planting beds and walking paths, protecting vegetation from garden hoses and wandering feet.

Garden post caps, made with serpentine jade add charm and style. Or, opt for solar post caps for a soothing glow that provides gentle illumination at night.

Lattice
Another landscaping accent that is both beautiful and functional is lattice. Dimensions plastic lattice is available in a variety of colors, sizes and styles, and can be used in many ways to add style and privacy to your deck and landscaping.

Plastic lattice can be a decorative privacy screen around a hot tub or pool deck, a garden accent or a foundation for vines and other greenery. Most types of lattice snap or slide together and all you’ll need to assemble them is a screwdriver.

Add stainlettes to your plastic lattice and enhance the beauty of your area with decorative Tiffany-glass accents.

Landscaping around a deck can be the crowning glory on your outdoor environment. Fortunately, with the right accents and a weekend’s worth of work, it’s easy to create a beautiful backdrop for your deck.

Check out one of my past blog posts entitled "Outdoor improvements offer great return on investment".

I've touched on decorative post caps in many posts, but these ornamental accents are such a versatile and economical way to dress up a deck or fence post, that they deserve their own moment in the spotlight.

Post caps / post tops are easy to install, even for novice do-it-yourselfers. In addition to looking good, they also serve the purpose of protecting your post from the elements. Solar post caps can also add helpful illumination when you enjoy your deck and outdoor living area at night.

If you're looking for a quick, weekend project that will give your outdoor area a whole new look, adding decorative post caps may be the project for you. Here's the 411 on post caps:

Sizing
There are two basic sizes that fit most wood deck railing or fence posts: 4 x 4 and 6 x 6. Measure your railing post to see which size you need. Your post won't measure exactly 4 x 4 or 6 x 6 – that's the "nominal" size. Your posts or post cap opening will most likely measure 3.5 inches square or 5.5 inches square respectively.

Selection
Deckorators offers many styles of post caps to suit virtually every taste and match any decor. Solar post caps come in both glass and metal varieties and require no wiring or electricity. Convertible Post Cap Lights allow you to add light with a candle or a solar cell. You can also opt for a low-voltage lighting kit when you need brighter light to illuminate walkways or steps.

Metal post caps come in a variety of shapes, from a simple pointed cap to an ornate ball design, and finishes, such as copper, stainless or pewter. Wooden post caps are available in a range of designs and can be finishedto match your deck. Glass post caps add a touch of color with basic jewel tones, or a flash of elegance if you opt for Tiffany-style caps. Deckorators' Tiffany-style post caps are handcrafted, transforming your deck railing into a work of art.

Installation
Installing post caps couldn't be easier. Just apply an exterior-grade caulk to the underside of the cap and slip it over the top of the post. Use finishing nails as needed. Just remember to finish your wooden post caps - including the underside - before installation. See detailed installation instructions for various styles.

Maintenance
Of course, you'll need to maintain your post caps in order to preserve their good looks. Fortunately, maintenance needs are basic and easy to accomplish.

Refinish wooden post caps whenever you refinish your deck. For glass post caps, apply car wax or furniture polish to the copper-wrapped solder before you install the caps. This will prevent oxidation. Repeat the waxing process every three to six months, as needed.

Deckorators metal post caps come with a layer of lacquer for protection. Exposure to the elements and sunlight will break down the coating over time. Copper post caps will take on a natural patina. If you want to keep them shiny looking, apply car wax every few months.

Now that you know the basics of decorative post caps, pick your preferred post cap, choose the weekend for your project and get started on one of the easiest, most satisfying deck or fence upgrades you can do.

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.

Yes. The 2000 IRC introduced a requirement for illumination of all deck stairways. Exterior stairways shall be provided with an artificial light source located in the immediate vicinity of the top landing of the stairway, including the landings and treads. The deck lighting requirement is a bit vague, but lighting is required nonetheless. As always, check your local building codes and consult your building inspector prior to installation.

Two common deck lighting options:

1. Low-voltage step and stair lighting is used for both ambiance and safety.
2. Solar post cap lights are an attractive alternative and are perfect for ambient lighting.

Check out Deckorators low voltage deck lighting kit and solar post cap options.

New deck trends include low maintenance decking, unique railing and railing accessories as well as lighting options. And as the trend for enjoying customized decks and outdoor living space grows, personalized outdoor living areas are the latest in home improvement upgrades.

Building or updating an existing deck isn't simply a great investment: It provides opportunities to personalize your backyard or porch and customize the look to your taste. And with many families staying home this summer thanks to high gas pricing and a recovering economy, why not build your perfect area for entertaining?

By designing your deck with accents, lights and unique accessories, you can transform your backyard into an outdoor retreat you'll never want to leave, whether you're catching up with friends over a grilled dinner in the evening or are curled up with a book in a lounge chair on a sunny afternoon.

With a new emphasis on value, durability and ultra-low maintenance, many homeowners seek deck materials that resist fading and staining. Latitudes Capricorn Tropical composite decking and Captiva decking, sold through dealers nationwide, are good choices. Low-maintenance, eco-friendly composite decking material is made from a mixture of recycled wood fiber and postindustrial high-density polyethylene, which looks natural and feels great on bare feet.

Add unique touches to really make the deck your personal haven. Change your deck's look with interesting balusters to match other decorative accents on your house or in your yard. You'll find traditional bronze balusters, classic rounded rails or even scenic glass balusters, which give your outdoor room a clear view.

Then consider breaking up the wooden look of your deck with Deckorators postcovers, to help match the look of your deck to a stone house, to a backyard with stone pavers or to a stone wall. Easily installed over a wooden 4x4 or 6x6 post, faux stone postcovers come in several stone patterns. See my blog post on deck post covers.

Finish off your railing system with post caps. Deckorators post caps are functionally and artistically decorative. Maybe you're interested in the more traditional black, stainless or pewter colors, topping a solar LED light to illuminate your deck for evening use. Or try a creative look with stained glass post caps, bringing a colorful flair to each deck post.

With so many unique decking and railing design options available, you can transform your wood or composite deck into a new outdoor living area. And because you designed it, it will perfectly fit your lifestyle.

Check out my past blog for deck railing ideas.

Nothing lends a splash of the new and different like remodeling or updating a deck. Real estate agents know how popular decks are with prospective buyers, and few home renovations will get a higher return on investment. A remodeled deck breathes new life into a home's surroundings for those who choose to stay put rather than buy a new house.

Consider replacing old wood balusters with scenic glass balusters from Deckorators. They’re great for opening up the view and will make the deck seem larger, without adding a single square foot.

Deck lighting can make a dramatic difference when dusk arrives. From solar metal post cap lights to recessed LED lighting, there are a wide range of deck lighting options to amp up the ambiance.

And don’t forget about the deck surface! Replace pressure-treated deck boards with Latitudes Intrepid™ composite decking or Latitudes Captiva co-extruded composite decking for ultra low maintenance and durability. If the look of tropical hardwoods is what's needed, choose Latitudes Capricorn composite decking.

If you’re looking to expand an existing deck, or add function and style, check out more great ideas inside my decking and outdoor living blog. Topics covered include adding a raised fire pit, barbecue grilling kick-outs and other value-add ideas to make a deck perform based on how it will be used.

See my other blog post on getting the most out of your deck investment.

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 solar post caps add a great finishing touch to any deck or fence. At night, they enhance your outdoor living area with a soft, welcoming glow. With a top-mounted solar lens, rechargeable double-A batteries and long-lasting LED bulbs, these eco friendly products require no wiring and mount easily to wood deck posts, composite deck post or vinyl posts.

You’ll find they’re very easy to install and maintain. To begin installation, remove the protective clear plastic film from the top of the cap. Pull off the top by gripping the sides firmly, and lifting it off. Then pull the red tab (if factory installed), to enable the battery connection. If your Deckorators cap has a switch, activate the solar cell by turning the switch on before replacing the top.

Now, make sure your post is flat and free of debris. Apply a bead of exterior-grade construction adhesive to the underside of the cap. Position the cap on the post and press it into place and you’re done; It’s that easy.

You can help maintain metal and Tiffany-style glass solar post caps even before you install them; Just spray on a coat of wax. Once installed, the foil on the cap will need a quick cleaning once every three to six months. Use soap and water and add a little lemon juice if needed, followed by the wax. Each solar post cap becomes fully charged after one day in the sun. Your cap may have an on/off switch. Make sure the switch is “off” during the initial charge. Turn it back on once the charge is complete.

If the light on a solar post cap ever malfunctions, here are some easy steps that should resolve the problem and prevent it from recurring. Inspect the batteries to make sure they are rechargeable. You must always use rechargeable batteries with solar post caps. Test the batteries to make sure they are charged and functioning properly. To help prevent corrosion, you can dab a small amount of grease on the diodes. Then, as you place the batteries into the cap, check to see that the batteries are seated and making a good connection. If your ornamental solar post top has a switch, check to see that the switch is working correctly. If necessary, lubricate the switch to ensure peak performance before putting the top back in place.

With these simple measures, the lights on your caps should illuminate your deck and outdoor living area night after night. So sit back and enjoy your deck or fence, enhanced by the beauty and functionality of Deckorator Solar Post Caps.

Visit the Deckorators web site for additional details on post cap installation.

When it comes to landscaping, customers want more than wood chips and plastic edging. Products from Outdoor Essentials transform ordinary lawns and gardens into appealing outdoor environments that homeowners love. Show them plenty of options, including Tiffany-style stepping stones and our newest offering—Square Tilestone jade stepping stone.

Call in the songbirds with bird baths of serpentine jade. Dress up deck posts with elegant caps, also available in solar-powered versions to provide lighting after dark. Planter post caps provide a place for foliage atop any deck post. Outdoor Essentials lets you create a truly remarkable outdoor sanctuary that's easy to install and impossible to forget.

See my past blog post on how to build a raised garden bed with The M Brace from Outdoor Essentials.