howtobuilddecking.com
http://howtobuilddecking.com/how-to-build-a-deck-handrail#.VAnhjWRdWV4
How To Build A Deck Handrail Your last step in building a deck is constructing a handrail. This rail or railing goes around the entire deck with an opening for the stairs. The handrail is important for safety if the deck is high off the ground or if young children are going to be using the deck. One is placed on each side of the stairs to aid in climbing up or down them. Instructions for Building Handrails These instructions are for wood lumber, if you are using the synthetic materials, directions may differ. 1. You will cut the posts to size to begin constructing the handrails. The size of these depends on your particular plans and on whether they are for the deck of the stairs. However, in either they are secured to the headers after the headers are notched out for a flush fit. 2. Next, you fasten a top and bottom rail all the way around the deck and down the steps. Trimming ends as needed. The balusters or pickets are attached to these. 3. Attach the balusters evenly around the deck and down the stairs on both sides at both top and bottom to the railings. These should be no further apart than 4 inches. 4. Once the balusters are fastened down, it is time for the cap rail to go on top of the posts and balusters. This is made from deck planking and is trimmed at the correct angle at the corners for joining. Sand it smooth to the touch. 5. On the stair cap rails, overhang the ends at the bottom of each side and round the end. Sand smooth as in the other cap rails. Now the deck is safe even for kids to be on and you can easily traverse the stairs.