Step 1: Determining the Layout

Take a moment to determine the layout and spacing of your handrail design. Begin by determining the areas where handrails will not be installed, including stairs, steps and other openings.

Next, determine the location of the 4"x4" posts. The maximum spacing between posts should not exceed 6 ft. from the center of one post to the center of the next post.

Deckman's Comments

The corners of the deck are the most difficult areas to determine location and position. In this example, each post has an 1 1/2" notch in the bottom of the post. Which side of the corner should the post go on? How should the post be positioned?

The posts should be placed along the longest side of the deck. In this example, the corner posts would go along the 14 ft. edge of the deck, and the edge of the post would be flush/aligned with the 10 ft. edge of the deck. Instructions on how to secure the posts will be described later.