How to anchor railing post in concrete
user-7453883
| Posted in Construction Techniques on
I’m going to be pouring a concrete patio set into a slope, and the rear edge will be tall enough that code requires a railing. What is the correct method for anchoring the railing posts? The only post base I can find that doesn’t specifically state that it’s not recommended for applications without top support is the Simpson Moment Post Base, but I’d like to be sure I’m meeting code before I buy a set of post bases. Thanks in advance!
Replies
Hi,
I think you should try to ensure your railing meets code requirements for anchoring posts on a concrete patio use post bases specifically designed for this purpose like the Simpson Strong Tie Moment Post Base. These bases are engineered to provide stability without needing top support. For additional assurance consult your local building codes or a structural engineer to confirm compliance.
Thanks
For anchoring railing posts on a sloped concrete patio, the Simpson Strong-Tie MPBZ (Moment Post Base) is a good choice because it's made for situations without top support. Just check your local building codes and follow the installation instructions to make sure everything is up to code.
Well, you’ve had replies what might be from either A I or beats me. Never saw them here.
I didn’t look at the post bases you mention nor that are possibly from their referral.
I have used post bases in addition to rod bored up into the post and down into concrete.
This has held most recently on a concrete stair (10 yrs ago) and passed my inspection walking the dog recently.
To anchor railing posts in concrete, the Simpson Moment Post Base is a good choice for freestanding posts as it provides solid support. Alternatively, you could embed the posts directly into the concrete for extra stability, especially on a slope. Just make sure to check your local building codes for any specific requirements regarding the railing height and post installation. Using galvanized or stainless steel materials will help prevent rust over time.
Use of Simpson's MPBZ post base could be the solution IF you have provide the required concrete thickness and meet or exceed the required edge distance. See:
https://www.strongtie.com/standoffpostbases_castinplacepostbases/mpb_base/p/mpbz
You should consider adding some appropriate concrete reinforcing around this base embed at any corner conditions.