Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - attaching handrail

I need to attach a 7 foot long 2x2 cedar handrail to the deck since the 2x6 cedar top cap won't meet local codes as a hand rail on stairs. I was going to fabricate a couple of mounts using scrap 2x6 cedar and attach it that way. However, I'd like to use some brushed nickel hardware I have, but I'm concerned about rust.

What is your preferred method to installing a 2x2 handrail?

Thanks.

I don't have a "preferred method of installing a 2X2 handrail" because the inspectors around here won't pass it.

Among other things, what they WILL pass is a 2X6 top cap that has a 3/4" by 3/4" dado or groove ripped in the bottom of the outside edge so that it leaves 1-1/2" from the outside edge of the 2X6 to the edge of that dado or groove. That becomes "grippable" and that's what they are looking for.

Another type handrail we use in t&g pine cabins here is attaching a 2x4 to the wall and attaching a 2x6 flush to the bottom of the 2x4, allowing it to protrude above the 2x4. It is solid and grippable. Radiussing it slightly on the top makes it a happy grip, too.

Larry,

That STYLE of handrail is OK around here, AS LONG AS there's a groove or dado on the wall side of the vertical 2X6 (a 2X8 works better) 3/4" deep and the top edge of the groove or dado is 1-1/2" below the top of that 2X.

Another option, of course, is to use milled hand rail. That's accepted everywhere!!

Here in Webster Groves, MO, a 2x2 is permitted as long as the edges are rounded. I was going to us my router to groove the 2x6, but it's height is 41" above the stairs, making it 3" too tall to meet code, hence I need a seperate handrail.

I spoke to the chief inspector yesterday and he was okay with my hand rail method.

Once I complete the handrail, the deck will be complete and I will post pictures of the completed project.

Thanks for the help.

wubears71,

Your description is becoming clearer. As long as the chief inspector is good with it, that's 90% of the battle.

As far as attaching it, use stainless steel screws. Pretty much anything else that you use in cedar is going to streak after a couple of years. A colored deck screw might be an option, but what color would you choose? A red or tan will match the cedar now, but the cedar will be grey in a few years.

With the dado specs you state, it would be better to use a 2x8 for the front board.
Thanks.