Home Garden

How to Mount Railings to Permacast Columns

Permacast columns are used as porch posts. They are made of fiberglass and come in various sizes. These columns range in width from 4 inches to 8 inches and even bigger in some instances. The height will also vary depending on the size of the porch. After your Permacast column is installed on the porch, it may be necessary to add a railing going up to the porch. When you are installing a railing, it is necessary to attach it to the column.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Railing
  • Reciprocating saw
  • L-bracket
  • Wood screws
  • Power drill
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the distance on the porch between the Permacast columns to determine how many railings you will need for installation. Record the measurement of the distance between each post where you will be mounting railings.

    • 2

      Pick up the first railing that you will be mounting on the column and set it in place between the column and the wall. Verify that it is the proper size. Cut it to size with a reciprocating saw, if necessary. Mark the cut location on the railing and run the blade of the saw through the cut marks so the proper cut can be made.

    • 3

      Slide an L-bracket underneath the top section of handrail. Push it up against the handrail and the column onto which you are installing it. Screw it into place with 1-inch wood screws and a power drill. Insert a screw into each of the provided holes. Place an L-bracket at the bottom of the handrail and push it up against the column. Install it in the same manner.

    • 4

      Attach the other side of the handrail to the wall of the house just like it was attached to the column, with L-brackets. Line up the second handrail and install it in the same manner. Repeat the process for any of the handrails that remain.