Replies

1. 
   calvin | Nov 11, 2023 12:08pm | #1

   Have you looked at this?
   https://www.decks.com/how-to/articles/deck-railing-codes

2. 
   TrinityCHB | Nov 12, 2023 12:16am | #2

   I'm curious as well. Westbury makes a really nice looking side mount rail system too.

3. 
   andy91 | Nov 13, 2023 02:43am | #3

   Specifically you want to use the pvc sleeve railings?

   I have not done it but if I did, I would through bolt through 4x4 posts into a tie on a joist or blocking and slightly countersink the heads into the 4x4 to allow the sleeve to slide over. You would have to order the taller stair posts if the posts are going to mount to a rim board on the outside.

   The railing is supposed to have a mid span foot to stiffen it up, so you'd need a small metal bracket mounted on the rim at the middle to support that.

   The railing isn't meant for a side mount but it can be done without too much trouble.

4. 
   leged19 | Nov 13, 2023 06:55am | #4

   Thanks everyone for the responses.

   I’ve done quite a few composite railings so I’m familiar with code/processes and whatnot. I’m more curious on how the end product is aesthetically since you aren’t able to use the any post skirt trims or anything like that. I avoid caulk as a finish whenever possible but with nothing around the base of the post sleeves like this will require because of the fascia mount I just don’t see any other way around it.

1. 
   andy91 | Nov 13, 2023 10:43am | #5

   You can't use the skirt down below that it comes with. What you can do, is get one piece of white pvc fascia board of any manufacturer, and build your own skirt boards and use the screw and plugs that come with them. It will look flawless. If you notch the sleeve to come all the way down, put a 3-1/2" square skirt piece on the very bottom, then skirt it with a three piece baseboard. Make them on a bench with pvc glue and simply take them over to the post and attach with a few screws on one side only since the pvc glue with cement the pieces together.

   This will give you a professional skirted finish. Your lumber yard knows where to get the white pvc boards, they've become popular for trim and siding now.

1. 
   leged19 | Nov 13, 2023 09:37pm | #6

   That's a phenomenal idea, that's exactly what I was looking for. I have a bunch of pvc 1x left over from another job also and thats an excellent use for it. Great call!

1. 
   andy91 | Nov 14, 2023 03:02am | #7

   Happy I could help, hope it looks good when you're done

5. 
   jameswbush | Nov 15, 2023 01:29am | #8

   I've actually tried a side mount composite deck rail with Trex Select before, and it turned out pretty great. The key is to make sure you have the right tools and follow the manufacturer's instructions closely. It gives a sleek and modern look to your deck, and I found it to be quite sturdy once properly installed.

1. 
   leged19 | Nov 21, 2023 05:04pm | #9

   James, do you happen to have a picture that you could upload for me to see?

6. 
   90DegreeAngles | Nov 24, 2023 06:03am | #10

   I've actually done a side mount composite deck rail with Trex Select before. It turned out pretty well for me. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and use the right hardware for the job.

1. 
   calvin | Nov 24, 2023 09:09am | #11

   Why didn’t you just copy/paste the message #8 above?

7. 
   Osman65 | Dec 04, 2023 02:54am | #12

   I'm not certain about others' experiences with side mount composite deck rails, particularly with Trex Select. Checking online forums or communities related to deck construction or reaching out to professionals might provide more insights on the outcomes and best practices for this specific installation method.