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How to Install a Wooden Railing to Concrete

Installing a wooden railing to a concrete wall requires a drill with a hammer drill setting, which is a useful tool for those with brick or concrete walls in their homes. Working with masonry surfaces requires special drill bits and screws designed for these purposes. Other than these adjustments, work on these surfaces is identical to installation on any drywall or wood surface. Wood installed on masonry surfaces at below-ground levels should always be treated for damp environments to ensure durability. This installation can be adjusted for any length or railing path.

Things You'll Need

  • Assembled railing
  • Hammer drill
  • Masonry drill bits
  • Masonry screws, 4-inch
  • Washers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set the railing in position along the concrete edge where it will be installed. Mark the locations of the railing bottom board's screw attachment holes on the concrete using a pencil or marker. Drill attachment holes every 6 inches into the bottom board of the railing if they are not already present, and mark their locations on the concrete.

    • 2

      Drill holes into each marked location using a hammer drill and a masonry drill bit of the size recommended on the masonry screw packaging. Use a drill bit significantly smaller than the diameter of the masonry screws if the diameter is not mentioned or the packaging is not available. Ensure that the hammer setting is engaged in the drill, and use both hands for support when drilling.

    • 3

      Reposition the railing in place with the attachment holes over the holes in the concrete. Thread a 4-inch masonry screw through a washer and place it in a hole. Tighten it in place through the railing board and into the concrete, being careful not to tighten it further once the washer becomes snug with the wood. Repeat for each screw hole.