How Do You Install Deck Guardrail Posts?
When planning a deck rail, ensure that you have a sturdy structure that will take up to 200 lb. of outward pressure. Most building codes call for a minimum height of 36 inches—taller is OK—and a distance of between 4 and 6 feet between posts, where the posts are 4 inches by 4 inches. Posts can be “set” securely on a finished deck, with or without a helper, using one of several types of post anchors available at any hardware store. Measure the length and width of your deck and calculate whether the sides are divisible by four, five or six—or at least close to one of those. Use that information to decide how far apart to place posts. For instance, a 10 by 15-foot deck could have posts 5 feet apart and look balanced with all the posts spaced evenly. An 8 by 16-foot deck would look good with posts set 4 feet apart. Use the information from step 2 to calculate the number of posts you will need. Take a nail and a tape measure and make scratch marks at the center point of where each pos
