Hey Guys, I will be installing a new hand rail for a short set of steps. The rail will go between two vertical 4×4’s about 36″ apart and it’s 3.5″ wide with a 4×1 on edge under the rail like a tee. I was thinking of running two screws thru the post into each end of the rail and cutting a dado in the bottom for the 1 by to set in and be glued plus toe nailed to the posts and rail. The rail meets the posts at a 45 degree angle. Opinions please.
Thanks,
Andy
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Replies
Any chance of altering the design to substitute another piece for the 1"x4" When I do cedar top rails I generally use a 2"x4" as a base which I screw into the posts. The 2"x6" finished top rail gets screwed through the 2"x4" from below. This gives a nice unblemished rail that can easily be removed for periodic refinishing.
I'd have to run it by the home owner. What I described matches the existing.
Is the 2x4 on edge and how do you fix it to the posts?
It'll all be painted.Andy
No the 2"x 4" is on the flat allowing you to screw up into the finished rail. The dimensions of the pieces are all adjustable to closer match what's there - it's just the approach to connecting everything I'm suggesting.
Thanks for the help F+T, I like your approach to the rail mounting, I'll see what the HO likes.
Andy