Posts are generally 6 to 8 feet apart, depending on building codes and whether the deck is for a residential or commercial building.

Using your tape measure, mark the spots on your deck where the aluminum posts will go. The first thing when learning how to attach a metal railing to your deck is to space and mark the post locations. This should be done even before the decking is installed to ensure proper blocking is in place for surface-mounted posts. Surface-mounted posts are installed after the decking is in place, so it’s very important to have this framing done correctly to allow for this. Before you cut a single piece of aluminum deck railing, you'll want to measure your deck and draw out a sketch of a plan for how to install metal deck railing properly. Installing a metal deck railing requires careful planning and at least a weekend afternoon for someone who's handy. How to Install Metal & Aluminum Deck Railings Level to make sure you install the metal deck railings without any slant.Chop saw with a blade that can cut through metal.Installing metal deck railings requires a few tools. In order to accomplish a solid connection, you will be required to install blocking into the framing to provide a stable foundation for the posts, and always consult and adhere to local building codes. Metal rail systems are usually top-mounted to the deck surface by bolting the rail posts into the framing. Some systems come in pre-manufactured steel or aluminum panels that are easy to install. How to Cut Metal Deck RailingĪluminum can be cut with a standard saw blade just like wood to be custom fitted to your design. But handy homeowners can complete metal railing installation in a weekend. You'll need a helper or two along with the right tools. Yes, particularly when metal deck railing do-it-yourself kits are available with step-by-step instructions. Are Metal Deck Railings Easy to Install for Do-It-Yourselfers? Hiring a contractor drives up your expenses when talking about how much a metal deck railing costs. The ultimate cost of aluminum deck railing will depend on whether you’re installing it yourself. The amount of railing you need and the material are two. There are many factors that can dictate the final installed cost of a metal deck railing. The cost of metal railings for a deck can run anywhere from $40 to $55 per linear foot for aluminum. Once sunlight no longer touches aluminum deck railings, the metal quickly loses its heat, whereas wood maintains its heat for several minutes after being out of direct sunlight. Does black aluminum deck railing get hot? Yes, but it dissipates heat more readily than other metals and even wood. Do aluminum railings rust? No, they do not because aluminum is a non-ferrous material. The powder coating resists rust, corrosion, and chemicals, and non-wood deck railings don't suffer from the same ravages due to ice and rot. Powder-coated aluminum metal deck railings can last 20 years or more. You can also go for cable-style deck railings made of thin metal cables for another see-through choice. Glass deck railings offer a popular option because they provide unobstructed views when sturdy, tempered glass is installed using appropriate bottom and top rails in between posts. Stainless steel offers a modern touch, while powder-coated aluminum is both contemporary and eclectic if you choose a contrast to the colors of your deck or home. Wrought iron can have the classic fleur-de-lis tips at the top that embellish your deck in a traditional style. Metal deck railings come in many styles to match your aesthetic appeal. Will a Metal Deck Railing Match my Style? Check with your local building code office for more information. In some instances, you may need a permit to install your deck's metal railings. Local building codes come into play, too. Do you want to install it yourself or hire a contractor? A contractor will cost more money than a DIY kit. You need to account for the outer perimeter of the deck but also any stairways. The budget, determined by the size of your deck and how many metal railings for your deck you'll need for the project, can fluctuate by a few hundred dollars. You have a few things to consider before installing them.

Wood deck rails