Secure and sturdy deck railing posts are necessary for the structural integrity of your deck and its railings. They’re also a mandatory safety mechanism that keeps everyone who steps onto your deck from slipping through or falling off. Achieving these outcomes begins with how you attach the posts to your deck, most commonly the top and side-mount posts.
Proper post installation – including precise spacing, proper height and leveling, and secure placement – will keep your deck safe and code-compliant. Here are the tools you’ll need and the steps to attach a post to an existing deck.
Basic Tools You’ll Need (Tools will vary depending on the type of post, materials, etc.)
How to Attach a Post to a Deck in 5 Steps
Step 1: Prep Work Makes the Deck Work
First, inspect your deck (i.e., its components, anchoring points, blocking, and structure) to ensure it can accommodate your posts. Then, refer to the proper building codes and local ordinances that apply to your jurisdiction so that you have the correct height for your posts and more. Finally, gather your tools and safety equipment and begin!
Step 2: Mark Your Post Placement
In line with building code spacing requirements and your design plan, precisely mark the post placement around your deck. Pay careful attention to joist placement and whether you’ll need additional blocking support as you go.
Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes
Measure and mark your pilot holes for your post’s mounting screws.
Step 4: Place Your Posts
Mount your posts at the placement/anchor points. TIP: shim and make adjustments as necessary until each deck post is level vertically (aka, plumb). This step can be made easier with the use of post leveling plates.
Step 5: Secure the Posts
Once your posts are plumb in place with the proper blocking beneath them, bolt down or drill in the fasteners to secure the posts to your deck.