Attaching Posts To Deck Frame

When homeowners and diyers build a deck they often fail to attach the railing posts to the deck framing securely.

Attaching posts to deck frame.

Use bolts not nails or screws to fasten railing posts to deck framing. Use structural screws and hangers. Trim and attach the final rim. Codes are getting tougher on outdoor decks.

It s also useful for attaching railing posts. Watch the entire 10 part video series here. They must be strong. Most states now require a specific bolted connection where deck rail posts attach to the floor frame with reinforcement for joists and blocking.

Don t lag bolt a deck railing post to the outer band board that s nailed to the ends of the floor joists. Cut the post to the desired height of the railing the width of the framing you will attach it to and the thickness of the decking minus the thickness of the top cap if there will be one. One way is to pour concrete in the post hole set the post on the concrete and backfill with gravel. Incorrectly attaching guardrail posts.

Use structural screws and fasteners to attach these to the rim joists perpendicular to the deck board layout. Deck framing page 16 beam to post page 12 post to concrete page 11 joist to beam page 14 a system of key connections throughout the deck framing also known as a continuous load path is essential to building a safe code compliant deck. For details on creating a post layout see how to build a deck. There are several methods for setting posts.

A secure method of attaching railing posts to a deck is to notch the post at the bottom so it fit snugly in the space between the two outer floor joists. Fastening guardrails to deck rim. Use blocking and bolts to create a strong railing connection at the rim joist. Get an overview of post to beam hardware choices for single double and triple beams.

Connecting a guardrail post to a deck incorrectly is among the most dangerous deck building errors. Finish the frame by attaching the other rim joist with hangers and. Bracing keeps the joists from warping as they dry and increases stability. Here we show posts for a 36 inch tall railing which is common.

It s easy to connect deck railing posts to the floor joists of the deck. A new series brought to you by cottage life jason lake shows you common mistakes and easy fixes for building a deck. When this system of connections is made properly loads are transferred. Jason is a contractor host of decks.