Installing plastic railing on a deck is relatively easy and straightforward, and can help add a great aesthetic to any outdoor space. The following steps outline what you will need to do:
1. Measure the area you plan to install the railing, and make sure there is enough support to hold the railing in place.
2. Purchase the required railing and hardware (brackets, screws, etc.). Make sure all hardware is suitable for outdoor use and suitable for the material you’re working with.
3. If your railing is pre-assembled, begin the installation by securely attaching the end posts and top rail using mounting hardware. If the railing is in-line, use a drill and screws to secure the posts to the deck boards.
4. Secure the bottom rail to the posts and then attach the balusters to the bottom rail and top rail using brackets. Make sure to space them evenly, with no more than 4 inches between each one.
5. To finish, use deck sealer and a roller to coat the plastic railing and prevent discoloration and weathering.
Following these steps, you should have yourself a great looking and beautiful railing installed on your deck.
How do you attach PVC railings?
Attaching PVC railings to a surface is a relatively quick and simple process with the right tools and know-how. The first step is to plan the railing installation and choose the area where you want the railing to go.
If the surface is a flat surface such as a concrete porch or a cemented surface, a special fitting made for PVC railing can be used. You will also need PVC glue, clamps, a drill, screws and saw.
Once the PVC fitting is attached, you will need to measure the length of the top and bottom railing and cut the PVC pipes to fit. You can use a saw to achieve a perfect fit. After the PVC pipes are cut, use the PVC glue on both ends of the pipe and insert them firmly into the fitting.
Secure the PVC pipe in place with the clamps.
Next, use the drill to make four holes on either side of the railing, two on the upper part and two on the lower part. Match the holes with two of the rails and mark the screw holes with a pencil. Secure the railings in place with the screws.
Repeat the same steps for the other railings.
Once the railings are securely installed, your PVC railing is ready to be used.
How do I attach a premade railing to my deck?
Attaching a premade railing to your deck requires some basic steps. First, make sure any existing posts, footers, and framing are in place and secure. Then, measure the perimeter of your deck to determine the number and placement of railing sections you need.
Next, if your railing has not already been pre-drilled, use a drill to attach lag screws along the post edges. At this point, you are ready to attach the railing sections to the posts. Start with the lowest post and use either a lag screw or a carriage bolt to attach the railing section to it.
Continue this process with the remaining sections until all are attached.
Lastly, if your railing comes with decorative caps, install these on the posts and railing sections if desired. It may also be necessary to install additional hardware for your railing, such as post to beam brackets or stair brackets.
If you are using a cable system, you may need to drill holes in the posts and use specialized tools to tighten it into place. With all the components securely in place, your railing should be ready for use.
What screws do you use for composite decking?
When constructing a deck out of composite materials, it is important to use the correct type of screw and fastener. The two most common screws used for composite decking are stainless steel composite deck screws and specialised in-timber screws.
Stainless steel composite deck screws are the most widely used screw type for composite decking. The screws are made from stainless steel, which makes them resistant to rust, and have a composite head design that helps prevent mushrooming and wicking, meaning that the screw will stay below the surface of the deck boards and won’t be visible.
The screws are easy to install and come in a variety of colours to match the composite deck boards.
Specialised in-timber screws are a newer type of screw specifically designed for use with composite decking. These screws have a specialised head design that creates a snug fit between the screw and the composite board when they’re inserted, which helps prevent water and dirt from getting in.
The in-timber screws are also designed to be counter sunk, meaning they sit flush with the board surface.
When constructing a deck out of composite materials, it is important to use the correct type of screw and fastener. Stainless steel composite screws and specialised in-timber screws are the most commonly used screws for composite decking, both of which offer reliable and secure fastening that help prevent water and dirt from getting in.
What is the cheapest type of deck railing?
The cheapest type of deck railing is typically the most basic, such as a do-it-yourself railing kit. Do-it-yourself railing kits are usually made of aluminum or vinyl, and come with all the necessary parts to complete the railing.
They often require some basic hand tools and come in a variety of colors and styles. These kits are designed to be easy to install, so you don’t need to hire a professional, thus saving money. Additionally, aluminum and vinyl are relatively affordable materials, making the kits less expensive than using wood or other materials.
The overall cost for these railing kits, including tools and materials, can be as low as $20 per linear foot.
How much do PVC railings cost?
The cost of PVC railings can vary significantly depending on the size, style, brand, and installation requirements of the project. Generally, basic PVC railing will cost around $15 – $25 per linear foot, while more decorative designs and higher quality materials may cost upwards of $30 per linear foot.
PVC railings are usually sold and priced by the foot. Installation costs vary widely as well, typically ranging from around $30 per linear foot, though more complex and decorative designs can cost up to $50 or more per linear foot to install.
When calculating the cost of a PVC railing project, it is important to factor in the price of the railing and installation, as well as any other materials needed such as brackets, fasteners, and anchors, which will add to the total cost of the project.
Are PVC railings good?
Yes, PVC railings can be a great choice for a railing system! They are durable, easy to maintain, and generally less expensive than many other railing materials. PVC is also very versatile and can be used in a variety of styles and designs to fit your specific needs.
PVC railings are also resistant to moisture, rust, and stains, making them an ideal choice for outdoor applications like decks and patios. Additionally, PVC is a lightweight material, making it easy to install and less likely to cause any structural damage to your home.
Lastly, PVC railings come in a wide range of colors to suit any outdoor aesthetic.
Is cable railing cheaper than wood?
It can depend on several factors, like the size and complexity of the job, as well as the quality of materials chosen for the job. On its own, cable rail can be a more affordable option. It costs less to install, with hardware and posts from wood railings often being more expensive than the posts and hardware associated with cable railings.
While cable rails won’t require slats and posts like a wooden railing would, they may require more continuous pieces of cable, which can be more expensive to purchase. However, cable rails also last a lot longer than wood railings, so the cost could balance out in the end.
Ultimately, it’s important to consider the materials and installation of both options to see which one is more cost-effective in the long run.
Which type of railing is best?
When choosing the right type of railing for your space, it is important to consider the overall style and design of the space. You want to choose a railing that complements the look and feel of the area.
Some popular railing options include wood, aluminum, wrought iron, and glass.
Wood is a classic option that adds a warm, inviting feel to any space. It is available in a variety of shades and styles, making it a great choice for creating a cozy atmosphere. Wood is also relatively easy to maintain and is often an affordable option.
Aluminum railing is a lightweight, low-maintenance option that adds an industrial-style to a space. Aluminum rails are often powder-coated for added durability and is available in a variety of colours.
Wrought iron is a popular, timeless choice that adds a classic and elegant feel to any space. Wrought iron railings are a great choice for outdoor spaces as they are resistant to weathering and are extremely durable.
Glass railings are a modern and sleek option that adds a stylish and open feel to a space. Glass railing is easy to maintain and is available in clear, frosted, and coloured glass.
Ultimately, the best type of railing for your space depends on the overall design of your space and your personal preference. Take some time to think about your style and the ambiance you want to create to find the railing that is right for you.
Is cable railing more expensive than glass?
The answer to whether cable railing is more expensive than glass railing depends on several factors, including the type of cable railing utilized and the cost of labor. Generally, cable railing costs more than glass railing, as it is generally a more complex installation that requires more structural components and takes longer to install.
A standard architectural-grade cable railing system typically costs about $75-150 per linear foot, depending on the complexity of the chosen design. Glass railing, on the other hand, tends to cost much less per linear foot, with pricing typically ranging from $50-150.
However, the cost of cable railings may be worth the expense, as it is durable and offers homeowners spectacular views with its clear and unobstructed design. Additionally, cable railings require virtually no maintenance and are easy to clean with a pressure washer.
Therefore, although it may cost more initially, many homeowners find that the long-term value associated with cable railings is well worth the price.
What are the 4 main parts of a railing?
The four main parts of a railing are: balusters, posts, handrails, and top rails.
Balusters are the vertical members that provide the structure of the railing and are normally positioned between a top and bottom rail to provide stability and a barrier.
Posts are the vertical structural members used to support the weight of the railing system and are usually the starting and ending point of a railing.
Handrails are the horizontal members positioned at the topmost of the railing system, used for additional stability and providing a grasp for safety.
Top rails are the horizontal members used to attach the balusters to the posts and provide a smooth continuation from one side of the baluster assembly to the other. They also provide a decorative finish to the railing and may also contain additional decorative features such as filigrees or open space designs.
How do you install pre assembled wood deck railings?
Installing pre-assembled deck railings are relatively easy and straightforward. Before starting your project, you’ll need a few basic tools including a level, an electric drill, a circular saw, and a drill bit set.
Beginning your project, you will need to measure the spaces for the posts and create a layout for the railing. Once you have done this, you can cut the wood to size according to your measurements. Make sure you use a circular saw and measure twice, so you can be sure that everything is exactly the way you want it.
Next, drill holes in the post junction locations and then secure the posts with lag bolts. Make sure that the lag bolts are sunk in far enough and the posts are firmly attached to the deck frame before moving on.
You can then attach the pre-assembled sections of the railing to the posts using bolts and, if needed, additional screws. Be sure to double-check the railings for stability and sturdiness.
To finish the installation, you can use caulk or a sealant to secure the posts and fill any gaps or cracks. This will prevent moisture from entering and limit the risk of rot or decay.
Once the posts are sealed and securely installed, you can enjoy the safety and aesthetic beauty of your pre-assembled wood deck railing.
How far apart should spindles be on a deck railing?
The spacing for spindles on a deck railing depends on the size of your spindles, the local building codes for your area, and what type of look you want for your deck railing.
In general, the distance between spindles should be no more than 4 inches apart. This provides a safe space for small children and adults that might lean against the railing. To meet most building codes the spindle spacing should not exceed a 6-inch gap.
When taking into account the size of your spindles, a good rule of thumb is to use the length of the spindle as your starting point. For example, if you have 36-inch spindles, the gap should be between 36 inches apart in order to guarantee stability and strength.
However, it may also be possible to space spindles out further than this, depending on the total strength of the deck railing.
All in all, the best spacing for your deck railing will vary depending on the size of the spindles, the local building codes, and what type of look you are going for. As a general rule, it’s best to keep the space between spindles to no more than 4 inches for safety and no more than 6 inches to meet most building codes.
When taking into account the size of your spindles, you should use the length of the spindle as a starting point.