Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Post Support Question

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mystified
09-20-06, 09:59 AM
We've been working on a high deck (8 1/2 ft. above ground at highest point) for some time (can't work on it all the time). Since the basic framing was done and the Trex decking screwed in, some of the railing posts (4x4 press. treated) have twisted and/or warped. I've considered cutting them off at deck level and using post supports to install new, straight ones. However, I'm not sure about attaching the post supports. I know they're OK if nailed into the side of a girder, but will they hold if nailed into the end of a cut-off 4x4? Hopefully, the attached pic will show you what I mean.

Pic is at:
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e235/mystified08/RailPosts.jpg

Also, are there other alternatives? We have 10 posts, and at least four of them are badly warped/twisted, including the main corner post ("L-shaped" deck).

Thanks for any thoughts......

Concretemasonry
09-20-06, 12:14 PM
In my opinion, just using the brackets you show will not give enough lateral strength for a railing post on a high deck. People may also feel uncomfortable when they put any weight on the railing.

Your best bet will be to use carriage bolts and attach to the side of the decking support beams.

Dick