Aluminum Picket Railing

How to install the aluminum picket railings for deck/balcony?

1. Install the First Post
   • Position the first post in place.
   • Secure the base using four lag bolts (for wood surfaces) or expansion bolts (for concrete surfaces).
2. Cut and Attach the Handrail
   • Measure and cut the handrail to fit between the posts.
   • Choose one of the following connection methods:
     • Option 1: Insert the handrail into brackets attached to the posts, and secure it with screws.
     • Option 2: Place the handrail on top of the pickets attached to the posts. Ensure the pickets are fully inserted into the handrail, then secure the handrail with screws.
3. Install the Other End Post/Corner Post
   • Position the second end post or corner post and secure it in place.

4. Install Mid Post (if hand rail is continuous)
   • Option 1:
     • Insert the small post with brackets attached into the handrail.
     • Fasten the post to the handrail using screws.
     • Attach the base of the small post to the flooring using four lag bolts.
   • Option 2
     • Insert the small post into the handrail.
     • Fasten the post to the handrail using screws.
     • Attach the base of the small post to the flooring using four lag bolts.
     • Secure one picket to each side of the mid post using screws.
     • Ensure the pickets are fully inserted into the handrail and aligned with the pickets attached to the larger posts, so they remain level.

5. Cut and Attach the Base Rail
   • Measure and cut the handrail to fit between the posts.
   • Secure the base rail with screws

6. Install Pickets and Spacers
   • Cut and install initial spacers
     • Cut two spacers of equal length (less than 4″)—one for the handrail and one for the base rail.
     • Install these spacers at one end of the panel.
   • Install the first picket
     • Place a picket into the bottom rail and ensure it is plumb.
     • Insert a full-size pre-cut spacer (3 7/8″) into the handrail and base rail to position the picket correctly.
   • Add remaining pickets
     • Repeat the process, continuing to add pickets and spacers, until there are four empty spaces left.
     • Insert the remaining four pickets as a group. Spread them evenly, and secure them with spacers.
   • Cut and install final spacers
     • Measure and cut the last two spacers to fit the remaining spaces.
     • Install the final spacers to complete the panel.

How to install the aluminum picket railings for steps?

1. Install the End Posts
   • Position the two end posts at the desired locations and ensure they are plumb and secure.
2. Mark the Base Rail
   • Place the base rail between the two posts in its intended position.
   • Mark the cutting lines on the base rail for a precise fit.
3. Cut the Rails
   • Cut the base rail along the marked lines.
   • Use the same measurements and angles to cut the handrail.
4. Attach the First Picket
   • Secure a stair picket to the lower post using screws.
5. Install the Base Rail
   • Position the base rail between the two posts, ensuring the attached picket is fully inserted.
   • Secure the rail to the picket using screws.
6. Attach the Second Picket
   • Secure a stair picket to the upper post, then connect it to the base rail using the same method as in Step 5.
7. Install the Handrail
   • Position the handrail between the two posts, ensuring the pickets are fully inserted into it.
   • Secure the handrail with four screws (two at each end).
8. Insert and Secure Remaining Pickets
   • Insert the remaining pickets, ensuring proper spacing.
   • Use spacers to secure the pickets at both the top and bottom.
9. Final Check
   • Inspect the entire section for stability, alignment, and proper fastening.