How to Embed Metal Porch Railings in Concrete

Measure the post diameter and multiply it by 3. This number tells you the hole's necessary width. Measure the post's height and divide it by 3. This tells you the hole's necessary depth.

Dig out the hole with a post-hole digger. Once the hole is the proper depth, use the post hole digger to make the hole's bottom slightly larger than the hole's opening. This prevents frost from heaving the concrete and metal post out of the ground.

Set the metal post into the hole. Pour 6 inches of gravel into the hole and around the post.

Pour a bag of cement into a wheelbarrow. Add water, according to the manufacturer's directions, and mix the cement with a shovel.

Drive the wheelbarrow to the hole and tip the wheelbarrow to begin pouring cement into the hole. Stop filling when the hole is about half full.

Stick the shovel into the hole and use it to help work the cement into the gravel. Finish filling the hole with cement until it is about 3 inches from the top.

Hold a level on the metal railing post. Adjust the post until it sticks straight up out of the hole. Brace the post with some scrap 2-by-4 boards until the cement hardens. Fast-drying cement hardens in about 20 minutes. Wait at least 24 hours before you mount the remaining porch railing on the metal posts.