Follow the instructions listed below to learn how to add railings to the deck.
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Measure and cut the 2×6 cap rails, beveling the ends. Cut and fit one cap-rail section at a time, checking each one with a level to make sure each post is vertical. Then secure the cap rails to the tops of the posts using 3-inch galvanized deck screws.
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Measure and cut the 2×4 bottom rails that fit between each pair of posts and secure them with angled 3-inch deck screws. The ends of the angle-cut 2×4's will be wider than the 4×4 posts; let them extend to the outside of the posts. Shape and sand the points flush with the posts.
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Trial and error will produce the double-angled notch where the handrail attaches to the railing post. Start with a 2×6 that's at least a foot longer than you'll need so you can start over if you make a mistake. Lay out the shape of the notch first, then mark the appropriate angle and cut it out with a handsaw or saber saw. Attach the handrails with 3-inch galvanized deck screws. Bevel the top of the lower post to the same angle as the railing.
The Reader’s Digest Association, Inc./GID
To attach the handrails to the posts, use 3-inch galvanized deck screws.
