Install Stair Posts

What happens in this clip

For posts located on stair runs, careful measurement is needed to ensure alignment with the railing's angle. Take a measurement at the very bottom of the stair run and correlate it to the very top. This guarantees that the center slot on both posts will line up perfectly. Mark fastening locations, pre-drill the holes, and secure the posts with structural wood screws. Level the post thoroughly, adding shims if necessary, and then install the cover plate. Be aware that the corner post where the stair run meets the main deck might require a larger post bracket and careful alignment with speed squares due to the transition to a 90-degree angle.

Goal: Securely install posts on stair sections, accommodating the necessary angle.

What's used

Tools

• Cordless Drill DeWalt
• Impact driver
• Cover Plate Barrette Outdoor Living
• Drill Bit
• Marker Milwaukee
• Pen
• Shims
• Plastic shims
• Small Level Kapro
• Torpedor level
• Speed Squares Empire
• Stair Post Barrette Outdoor Living
• Structural Wood Screws (6-inch) FastenMaster
• Lag bolts
• Tape Measure Milwaukee

About the full video

This project provides a detailed, step-by-step guide on installing the RDI Elevation Rail cable railing system from Barrette Outdoor Living on a deck. The process covers installing various types of posts (mid, corner, end, and stair posts), preparing and installing the pre-assembled cable rail sections, cutting and fitting top handrails, tensioning the stainless steel cables, and adding all final caps and trim.

Step 1 of 11: Layout Post Locations

Measure and mark the exact positions where each railing post will be installed. For stair sections, these marks should be made at consistent intervals along the slope of the stairs, typically 6 to 8 feet apart. Ensure posts are positioned to provide adequate support and to maintain the desired railing line. For landings, mark post locations at corners and along straight runs to meet code requirements and ensure structural integrity. Use a level to verify that the marks are plumb.

Open this step in the guide

Other videos for this step

• Determine Post Positions
• Plan Post Placement and Gather Tools