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Deck Handrails

Video, Carpentry, Decks and Patios, Safety and Security Published 08/23/2007 by Ben Erickson

To give a deck that perfect finishing touch, as well as to address safety concerns, it needs to have a handrail around it. Here Danny shows how to construct the railings and spindles from pressure treated wood. The top rail is made from a horizontal 2×4 while the bottom rail is secured vertically with a beveled cut to shed water. 2×2 spindles are toe nailed into the rails before the whole unit is set in place. The top rail is then capped with a piece of 5/4” material to finish it off. Be sure and check your local building codes for approved heights as well as for the gap allowed between the spindles.