Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - How high should hand rail be?
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salzy
06-27-02, 01:36 PM
I am using 4x4 posts that will have the decorative caps on them and the 42" ballusters. How high should my 2x4 be from the face of the deck?
pjb1
06-27-02, 02:03 PM
How high off the ground is the surface of the deck?
salzy
06-27-02, 06:07 PM
It is actually a two level deck. The first level is approx. 2ft and the second is approx. 4ft. Thanks in advance.
pjb1
06-28-02, 06:17 AM
The 4' section will most likely require a 36" high rail. Some local codes will let you get away with lower rails or benches for the 2' deck. Check your local codes to be sure. Even if you are doing this without a permit, you want to be within code. If you get caught by a building inspector, or when trying to sell your house, you want the rails to be correct. The reason the balusters are pre-cut at 42" is that some designs attach the rail all the way down to the bottom of the end joist, and second story decks often require rails higher than 36".