we have finished framing our home in WV. Iam now putting up the wrap around porch. The perimiter of the home is 70×32. I am half way around building the deck of the porch(8′ deep 2×10 joists sitting on 6×6 posts 8feet apart.
I have a question on railings. I wnt to have pipe railings. Pricing the pipe was a rude awakening. But then I saw 1/2″ rigid electrical conduit. Does this sound reasonable to use this?
jack
Replies
1/2" is a little small, 3/4 would be better.
Is it really rigid conduit, or EMT? The emt would be too light. for the top rail but would work for the balusters.
I'm sorry, I thought you wanted it done the right way.
It is emt conduit. But I would be using 30" lengths seting in a 2x6 top and bottom rail.
1/2 bar stock is not that high... think i'm pay'n 4.50 per 20ft
pony
Maybe I misunderstood the first post. You will have 2x6 top and bottom rails and the emt will be the balusters or pickets in between. That works. You might want to clean off the printed labeling. Drill a small hole in the bottom rail so moisture can drip out. And be sure to maintain a legal spacing.
I'm sorry, I thought you wanted it done the right way.
Don't know how standard conduit will hold up to weather? GRC (galvanized ridgid conduit) or aluminum emt would hold up better. This will also cost more then standard conduit.
Never seen it used for railing, so if you use it, post a photo of the finished product.
I was wondering about the same thing. Standard EMT will last a few years outside in some protected areas before it starts to rust. If painted it can go many, many years.
If he is using pt lumber for the top and bottom rail, all bets are off. I don't think the small amount of galvanizing on EMT would meet the requirements for ACQ treated lumber contact.
Dave
Put plastic caps on the ends of the emt to isolate it from the acq.I'm sorry, I thought you wanted it done the right way.