Section 410.503 - Protective Railings and Walls. With the two posts in such close proximity to each other, it’s possible for one set of bolts to block the other. For example, for a deck with 12 joists, install a deck rail post to every third joist. Vertically space the bolts no less than 5 and 1/8 inches apart. Rim Joists are an IRC requirement. In this article, we’ll review how to space your deck posts, so your deck is both safe and visually appealing. It used to be that deck railing posts were notched on one end and connected to the deck with screws. Another option is to mount each post 12 to 16 inches in from the corners with the top rails extending beyond each post to meet at the corner. Decks 24" to 5-10" (180 cm) need 36" guards and anything above 5-10" requires a 42" high railing. New homes will not be granted a … At a minimum, footings shall be at least down to the frost depth for your location. Just keep in mind that each style requires the addition of blocking in the frame to meet code. Posts will be much stronger than brackets. The process is a bit different for posts that are set on the interior deck. Log in. By using these guidelines, you can ensure that your deck railing will provide adequate support while also preserving the aesthetics of your deck. Another option is to design your deck by simply extending the footings another 36” so they also serve as the deck railing posts. To achieve even spacing, make sure a uniform number of joists separate each post. Railings for this type of system, namely Series 500 Pipe Railing, are built with the proper number of horizontal lines to meet the requirements outlined 6. The International Residential Code (IRC) requires a minimum 36-inch-high guardrail for all decks, balconies, or screened enclosures more than 30 inches off the ground. [46] “American Standard Safety Code for Floor and Wall Openings, Railings, and Toe Boards,” AS A12 -1932. For integrated deck/rail posts, place the footers that will double as rail posts no more than six feet apart for 4×4’ footers or 8 feet apart for 6×6’ footers. Deck railing code is in place for a reason, however. Minimum Railing Distance, One Railing: 31 1/2 Inches Minimum railing distance means the walking space between a handrail on one wall and an adjacent wall that has no handrail. The posts or uprights shall be of a section at least equal in strength to the minimum requirements for railings. Joists … For decks with deck rail posts on the outside, you’ll need two posts on each corner. Joists and Decking Boards. Deck railing posts are what support your deck rails, which in turn keep people from inadvertently falling off the deck. Standard 4×4-foot deck posts must be spaced no more than 6 feet apart to provide adequate strength. This deck railing height code also applies to commercial decks and balconies such as restaurants, bars, and museums as well as multi-family homes, condos, and any deck on a third-story or higher. Residential Building Codes for hand Rails. Learn more about the basics of deck railing code-compliance and installation in the Deck Railing Guide and Glossary of Deck Terms and Lingo . GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Alternative Materials and Methods –R104.11 An alternative material, design or method of construction shall be approved if the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the code. If you choose to install a guardrail on a deck lower than 30", you must still meet code requirements. The minimum height of the railing varies based on the height of the deck. According to any code, there are no restrictions regarding designs, unless the spaces between the decorative elements go over 4”. Deck railing height standards can vary from state to state but typically require a 36″ or 42″ railing. Respect Minimum Height Requirements [47] “USA Standard Safety Requirements for Floor and Wall Openings, Railings, and Toe Boards,” USAS A12.1-1967. In addition to providing safety, you also want your deck railing to enhance as opposed to detracting from the aesthetics of your deck. Once you’ve determined the location of each corner post, it’s time to take measurements and determine spacing. 125 pound uniform load (per linear foot) applied horizontally or vertically to the railing. Image Credit: Morris Decks. To achieve an aesthetically pleasing result, you need to space the posts uniformly. Keep in mind that although you may add a rail to a deck that’s less than 30 inches above grade, that railing still needs to adhere to these safety requirements. Decks 30 inches or more above grade require a safety railing that is at least 36 inches high. hot-dipped-galvanized or polymer coatings, Prescriptive Residential Wood Deck Construction Guide. Since the posts will determine the spacing of the balusters and the structural integrity of your railing, correctly installing the posts is critical to ensuring the rest of the railing installation goes smoothly. 2018 IRC Significant Changes to Deck Provisions 12 EVALUATION REPORTS ESR-1137 ITW Red Head EPCON G5 Adhesive Anchoring System Lastly, don’t forget to account for the stairs. U.S. building code requires support posts for the rail structure to be no further apart than 6 feet on a deck with 4×4’ deck rail posts and no more than 8 feet apart for decks with 6×6’ deck rail posts. Make sure to mount the posts a few inches into account for the ledge board and provide an adequate buffer between the post and the house. 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