Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - railings without post.

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lcjjlp
04-20-05, 08:17 AM
using 2x2 pt ballusters and 2x6 pt top handrail. the spacing between the 2x2 is 4" and the height of the railing is 44" and tying the bottom of the ballusters to the band joist with two galvinized lag screws and tying the top rail to the house. what is the force strenght of the railing?

thank you
lcjjlp!

lefty
04-20-05, 12:54 PM
How long is the railing??

2?

20?

What's it made of?
lcjjlp
04-20-05, 01:26 PM
the railing is all treated wood and 25'x10'. it's L shape.

thanks you!
lcjjlp

lefty
04-20-05, 01:57 PM
Your 2X2's are not going to meet the 200# load requirement by themselves. And you can't span 25' with the top rail without a joint someplace in the rail. Therefore, your rail isn't code. YOU NEED POSTS IN IT!!
lcjjlp
04-20-05, 04:11 PM
Hi Lefty

if I use a 4x4 in the middle of the 25' run would that make it safe enough. the deck will be ten feet of the ground and I want it safe for my kids and friends. plus what the formular?

thanks!
lcjjlp.
p.s. can I use 2x4 pt. on top of the hand rail, supporting the joint section?
lefty
04-21-05, 01:37 AM
I usually place 4X4 posts about 5' to 6' apart, depending on what spacing works for all sides of the deck I'm building.

Code regarding railings really only mentions 3 things.

1.) There can't be any opening that a 4" ball can pass through.

2.) They have to be a minumum of 36" high.

3.) They have to be strong enough to support a 200# load applied in any direction.