How to Attach Metal Railings to the Floor

Unlike wood handrails, metal railings have a bracket connected to the bottom of each support post that allows it to be surface mounted to the flat surfaces of steps or floors. The correct mounting procedures and fasteners are required to ensure the installed metal railing provides the support necessary to protect people using it from falling. Installing incorrect fasteners or installing the correct fasteners incorrectly can cause a weak connection between the railing and the floor that can cause the railing to fail under stress.

Pencil
1/8-inch drill bit
Drill
3/16-inch masonry drill bit
3/16-inch lag bolts
1/4-inch concrete screws
Socket set
3/8-inch ratchet handle

Instructions

- 1
  Set the metal railing in position. Ensure each leg of the railing sits at the same distance from the edge of the floor or edge of the stairs.
- 2
  Run the tip of a pencil through the mounting holes of each leg of the metal railing to mark each hole on the surface of the floor. Move the railing from its position.
- 3
  Secure a 1/8-inch drill bit, if installing the railing on a wood floor, or a 3/16-inch masonry drill bit, if installing the railing on a concrete floor. Drill one hole at each marked location to the depth specified by the fastener's manufacturer.
- 4
  Set the metal railing back in position. Align the mounting holes with the drilled holes.
- 5
  Place one 3/16-inch lag bolt into each hole drilled in a wood floor or a 1/4-inch concrete screw in each hole drilled in a concrete floor. Tighten each fastener by turning them clockwise with a socket attached to a 3.8-inch ratchet handle.

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