Proper Procedure Of Reinforcing Deck Railing Posts
When it comes to safety, deck railing posts that are typically constructed of thick 4-by-4-inch lumber may have a tendency to sway a little. Posts frequently benefit from reinforcing, especially those on end joists, where they are most likely to sway. Deck railing posts can be strengthened both when they are first built and afterwards if problems arise.
Thing's You Will Need
- ½-Inch Galvanized Carriage Bolts, Washers And Nuts
- Drill And ½-Inch Bit
- 2-By-8 Pressure-Treated Lumber
- Chop Saw & Mallet
- Deck Tension Ties
Step 1: Look Into Possible Causes Of Unsteady Deck Railing Posts
First of all, it is highly recommended to look into potential causes of unsteady deck railing posts. Look for missing or loosened nuts on the galvanized bolts attaching the post to the joist in older decks. Replacing or tightening as required.
Step 2: Add ½-inch Galvanized Carriage Bolts And Matching Washers And Nuts
If the post is simply secured by nails, add 1/2 inch galvanized carriage bolts and matching washers and nuts. To ensure maximum reinforcement, clamp the post in place, take out the nails, drill 12-inch pilot holes 1 inch from both the top and bottom of the post, and bolt the post in place.
Step 3: Add Blocking Between The Joists
When building new or remodeling an existing structure, add blocking between the joists. When installing 16-inch joists, cut pressure-treated 2-by-8 lumber to a length that will fit snugly between the joists, which is typically 1412 inches. It is better to take accurate measurements, cut the blocking slightly longer than necessary, and progressively cut it down with a chop saw until it fits tightly and a mallet is needed to fit it between the joists.
Step 4: Fasten The Blocks In Place To Utilize Galvanized Nails
Blocking should be placed on either side of the deck posts. Utilizing galvanized nails, fasten the blocks in place.
Step 5: Bolt The Post Into The Deck Tension Tie
For optimal deck railing post reinforcement, use deck tension ties. Bolt the post into the deck tension tie, which resembles a big joist hanger, via the rim joist. Utilizing the eight holes offered, fasten the deck tension tie to a joist. Bolt the post into the deck tension tie's base and fasten the tie to a piece of 2-by-8 blocking for posts on end joists.
Important Tip & Warning
- Design your deck with two offset corner posts rather than one in each corner, due to the fact that this style is easier to install and offers additional strength. To comply with code requirements for spacing, space the posts 4 inches apart. To strengthen the deck railing posts, double the end joists. An additional method of blocking is to sandwich four lengths of blocking together and fix them to the inside of the rim joist. Use 12-inch galvanized carriage bolts, matching washers, and nuts to secure the post to the joist and its blocking.
- When inserting posts outside of joists, avoid notching them in orderto prevent weakening of the posts.