Photo: Mads Thomsen

How far apart should 4x4 deck posts be?

6 feet apart Spacing of Deck Posts The two most common sizes used for deck posts are 4×4 and 6×6. When using 4×4 posts, place them no more than 6 feet apart, and when using 6×6 posts, no more than 8 feet apart. The reason for these standards is that the railing system won't have proper support if the posts are too far apart.

mrspindle.com - How to Properly Space Deck Railing Posts - Mr. Spindle, Inc.

Can you dry wood without a kiln?

Without a kiln, you should try to achieve an air-dry moisture content of 15-20 percent. Further moisture reduction occurs when you move the boards...

Last updated Dec 8, 2021

Can you lay a shed on slabs?

Yes of course, but you need to make sure that there's a strong foundation for the shed before assembling it. If your garden is on slabs of paving,...

Last updated Jun 10, 2020

Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

A railing system on a deck refers to several parts. The deck posts are the tallest part of the system and add stability to the entire railing system. Let’s take a look at what a railing system is and how to properly space deck railing posts.

What Is a Deck Railing System?

A deck railing system is like a guard rail and protects those using the deck from falling off. Deck railings must meet certain standards so that everyone is safe, including small children. The five parts of a deck railing system are the top and bottom rails, posts, balusters, and railing caps. Here’s an overview of each part: The top and bottom rails – the long horizontal pieces on the top and bottom of the railing system, between the posts, and used to attach the balusters Balusters – the spindles placed vertically between the rails for safety and decorative purposes Railing cap – purely decorative; the cap gives a nice finish on top of the rails

The posts – secure the entire railing system together

Spacing of Deck Posts

Deck posts should be cut about 10 inches longer than the railing. The two most common sizes used for deck posts are 4×4 and 6×6. When using 4×4 posts, place them no more than 6 feet apart, and when using 6×6 posts, no more than 8 feet apart. The reason for these standards is that the railing system won’t have proper support if the posts are too far apart.

Putting the Railing System Together

There is an order in which the railing system should go together to make it all come together properly. Let’s look at the best order to follow: Attach the posts to the rim joists. Secure the rails to the deck. Attach the caps to the posts (if using caps). Attach the balusters to the rails (check ordinances in your area for spacing…usually, 4 inches is the max). Attach the railing caps. Now your railing system is complete! As mentioned, be aware of how to properly space deck railing posts by understanding the size used. Put everything together in the right order, and your deck will be safe and the railing system stable. Mr. Spindle specializes in all railing systems. We offer a cedar deck handrail, along with many railing options, and can even create custom designs to suit your home’s needs. Contact us today, and we’ll help you get your deck looking beautiful for summer.

What is the best natural sound barrier?

Note that the most effective noise-blocking plant-life are large evergreen broadleaf trees and bushes. This is because they provide year-round...

Last updated Oct 21, 2020

Will tools rust in a shed?

Hand Tool Storage To prevent this from happening, make it a habit to bring your hand tools in from the garage or shed at least an hour before you...

Last updated Jul 17, 2021

Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

What is the maximum span for a 2x8 floor joist?

Max. Live Load 60 lbs/ft2 (2873 N/m2) Maximum Span (ft - in) Nominal Size (inches) Joist Spacing Center to Center (inches) Lumber Grade 2 x 8 12 13' - 1"" 16 11' - 11"" 24 10' - 5"" 10 more rows

engineeringtoolbox.com - Maximum Floor Joist Span - The Engineering ToolBox

Translate

About the Engineering ToolBox!

We don't collect information from our users. Only emails and answers are saved in our archive. Cookies are only used in the browser to improve user experience. Some of our calculators and applications let you save application data to your local computer. These applications will - due to browser restrictions - send data between your browser and our server. We don't save this data. Google use cookies for serving our ads and handling visitor statistics. Please read Google Privacy & Terms for more information about how you can control adserving and the information collected. AddThis use cookies for handling links to social media. Please read AddThis Privacy for more information.

How long does it take to put together a Costco shed?

Most sheds are assembled within 1 day. Please allow 2-3 days for the completion of our shed installation services on 12 foot wide models or larger....

Last updated Apr 24, 2018

Can I put my shed against my fence?

In order to avoid potential buildup of mold, mildew, and rot growth, it is advised that you should leave space between a fence and a shed. This...

Last updated May 29, 2021

Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

Do coffee grounds repel spiders?

Coffee grounds, a common household item that many people have on hand, can be an effective natural spider repellant when used alongside other...

Last updated Jan 26, 2021

Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

Is shed roof felt waterproof?

Shed felt is a roofing material that is made by soaking a base of compressed cloth or matted card fibre in bitumen. One side of the felt usually is...

Last updated Aug 30, 2020