Once the 4×4 rail posts are plumbed and properly attached to the deck frame, the 2×4 rails and pickets can be added. There’s no real trick to laying out the 2×4 rails for pickets, but there’s a few things to keep in mind before you get started.
Can you use 2×4 for deck railing post?
On some decks, it’s possible to use 4×4 or larger posts that run continuously from the railing to the footings, supporting both the deck structure and the railing.
Can I use 2×6 for deck railing?
No matter whether you prefer 2x4s or 2x6s, they both work.
A 2×6 top rail has the benefit of width and can be place over top intermediate posts thus making a stronger railing.
Do I need pressure treated wood for deck railing?
As long as there’s a good chance that moisture can reach the wood, it should be pressure treated. This is why the International Building Code requires that siding and structural lumber used for the last six inches of the structure above the ground is pressure treated.
What accounts for roughly 90% of all deck collapses?
About 90% of deck collapses occurred as a result of the separation of the deck ledger board from the house, allowing the deck to swing away from the house. It is very rare for deck floor joists to break mid-span. Many more injuries are the result of rail failure, rather than complete deck collapse.
What size wood do you use for a deck?
Wood decking is commonly available in 2×6 and 5/4 x 6 profiles. 5/4 x 6 is produced specifically for decking and is milled with a radius edge or bull nose. 2×6 is thicker and is stronger, but is also more expensive. Spacing between deck boards provide a few critical functions.
How far should posts be on a deck?
Ideal deck post spacing is 8 feet or less. The distance between deck support posts depends on the type of wood species used and the size of the joist and beam. There is no minimum span, and maximum spans can reach up to 15′.
Can I use 4×2 for decking frame?
You have enough posts in. You get the joist spacing by laying a length of your 4×2 between the joists which are bolted to the posts. Each end or these joists will be supported by the perimeter 4x2s. Tight fitting noggins in-between will make it all rigid.
How far can a 2×6 span without support?
A 2×6 can support up to 50 pounds per square foot of weight without sagging with a maximum span of about 12 feet when spanning a distance horizontally, with the 2×6 standing in a vertical position. This number includes both live and dead weight.
What is code for horizontal deck railing?
The IRC (International Residential Code) requires that deck railing be at least 36″ in height. This should be measured from the deck or porch surface to the top of the railing. But you should also check your local building codes because counties and cities may have different requirements.
How do you seal a 2×4 exterior?
There are three surefire ways to waterproof your wood for years to come.
- Use linseed or Tung oil to create a beautiful and protective hand-rubbed finish.
- Seal the wood with coating of polyurethane, varnish, or lacquer.
- Finish and waterproof wood simultaneously with a stain-sealant combo.
What wood should I use for deck railing?
The most popular lumber we see used for deck railing frames is PT (pressure treated). Most PT lumber is made of soft wood, usually southern yellow pine, that is relatively inexpensive compared to other species. The treatments provide protection against the elements that soft pine doesn’t have naturally.
What kind of wood should be used for porch railings?
Western Cedar is a great outdoor use wood that has been the standard throughout the US for many decades. Usually when people say simply “cedar”, this is the wood they are referring to. It is an ideal material from which to make Wood Porch Railing and traditional turned balusters.
What do inspectors look for in a deck?
Inspectors will also be looking closely at the specific connections as they are assembled across the frame. They will want to see that you are using the proper joist hangers and they are not missing any fasteners. They will also be interested in seeing how well your beams are connected to your support posts.
Can balusters be used in place of posts?
T/F: Balusters can be used in place of posts if there is adequate infill between them. T/F: End-grains of vertical posts and balusters should be cut level. Deck planking segments should bear on a minimum of _____ joists. T/F: Deck planking should be laid together as tightly as possible.
How do you inspect an old deck?
Specifically, check the ledger board, support posts and joists beneath the deck, deck floor boards, railings and stairs. Look for small hole in the wood or evidence of sawdust/wood dust. Examine any areas that are regularly exposed to water, tend to remain damp, or are in regular contact with fasteners.
How far apart should deck railing posts be?
The structural integrity of the railing depends heavily on the posts that support the rail structure. These posts should be no farther apart than six feet on the flat deck and no farther apart than 5 1/2 feet on stairs. Your local building department might require closer post spacing for added rail strength.
What lumber Do I need to build a deck?
Pressure-treated lumber is the logical choice for the structural part of your deck—the posts, joists, beams and other members you normally don’t see. Pressure-treated lumber can support more weight and span longer distances than cedar, redwood or other woods commonly used for building decks.
Can I use regular lumber for a deck?
Is it a good idea or is it a disaster waiting to happen? Yes, you can use untreated wood to build a deck, but not without preparing it first. You can’t, of course, pressure treat it yourself, but you will need to seal; the wood and stain/paint it to ensure the wood is ready to take on the harsh external weather.
Is 2×6 good for decking?
For upper-level decks, 2×10 is recommended as the minimum size to use for strong guard post connections. 2×6 joists should only be used on ground-level decks that do not require, and will not provide for, any guards.
Can I use 4×4 posts for my deck?
Deck posts must be a minimum of 4×4 according to the IRC but many jurisdictions require a 6×6 post as a standard. To avoid code violations, many deck builders choose the 6×6 even if the 4×4 is acceptable.
Contents