How to Attach Railing Posts on a Flat Roof

Using an existing garage roof as a location to build a new deck is a convenient outdoor remodeling project that can add functionality and landscaping appeal to your outdoor living space. You might be tempted, when converting your garage roof to a deck, to tie railing posts to the outside frame of the roof; however, this method will craft an unstable railing. Instead, tie the posts into the roof rafters for a stable railing that is safe and will withstand weather and use.

Pencil
Post brackets
Drill
Epoxy paste
Bolts
Nuts
Wrench

Instructions

- 1
  Check local building codes, and get any required permits for constructing deck railings. Codes vary, but few municipalities will be without a required height for a rail at the edge of decking, as well as any spacing requirements between posts.
- 2
  Remove ceiling panels from under the roof, exposing the rafters. Place the roof post bracket at each designated spot along the rafters and mark the mounting holes with a pencil.
- 3
  Drill up through the rafter to the roof above at the marked spots, creating holes for pass-through nuts and bolts.
- 4
  Go to the roof. Position the post in place with the bracket aligned to the holes. Line the bolt with epoxy paste, then thread the bolt through the holes.
- 5
  Tighten each bolts from underneath with a nut, securing each one in place with a wrench.
- 6
  Repeat for every post required to install the roof railing.
- 7
  Replace the ceiling panels when the installation is complete.

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