How to Install a Railing Around Basement Entry

Basement entries are notoriously slippery places during the winter. The risk of fall for a basement entry depends on the design of the entryway, the presence of stairs and the entry's position under or above ground level. One way to greatly improve the safety and convenience of your basement entry is to install a railing around the entryway area, allowing for support in icy situations or a place to rest your load while you unlock the door. These railings are installed using basic railing mounts and a drill.

Treated railing
Galvanized railing mounts
Tape measure
Screwdriver
Hammer drill
Masonry drill bits
Galvanized masonry screws, 2-inch

Instructions

- 1
  Position galvanized railing mounts over a treated railing bar, spacing the mounts every 18 inches along the railing bar. Tighten the railing mounts partially against the railing using a screwdriver until the railing mounts hold their position on the railing without help.
- 2
  Hold the railing with attached mounts against the wall, setting it about 36 inches above the ground. Mark the position of each railing mount attachment screw hole against the wall. Lower the railing and drill into each hole using a hammer drill on the hammer setting and its highest power. Use a masonry drill bit with a diameter that is quite smaller than the masonry screws that follow.
- 3
  Reposition the railing against the wall with its railing mounts in place over the predrilled holes. Set 2-inch masonry screws within the mount holes and into the holes in the wall. Tighten the masonry screws into place to secure the railing to the wall.
- 4
  Tighten all of the attachment screws on the railing and railing mounts, making the attachments as tight as possible for a strong, durable railing.

What Are the Five Basic Methods of Control of Rodents & Insects?

How to Cut a Gunstock Comb

General Home Safety