Getting Ready

• Take measurements of the old railings, and compare them to code requirements in your area. Use the information as you shop for new railings. Remove the old railings and any posts you plan to replace. Use caution if posts support a covered porch, you'll need to brace the roof with temporary supports, usually 4 x 4 posts. Repair or replace damaged and decayed wood in the porch itself.
  
  Consider vinyl or composite materials when shopping for new railings and posts. They last for years and don't require maintenance like paint, stain and water sealer. Some vinyl and composite posts are just covers for 4 x 4 posts, in which case you should purchase pressure treated posts to put the post sleeves over. Others are reinforced with aluminum or steel.
  
  

Post and Rail Installation

• Install the new posts. If the old posts were attached to the porch framing, drill holes for 1/2 inch carriage bolts and install with washers and nuts. For concrete porches, you'll need a hammer drill, concrete lag bolts or bolts and anchors with appropriate mounting brackets. Keep the posts plumb during installation by checking frequently with a level.
  
  Post sleeves slip right over 4 x 4 posts. Cut them to the right size, set them over the post and secure with supplied, color-matched screws. The post sleeve will probably wobble a little once installed; keep it level as you secure it with the screws.
  
  Measure for the new upper and lower railings, cut and install with color-matched railing brackets or "L" brackets and screws. The bottom opening between the lower rail and porch and the height of the upper rail must meet code requirements. Measure, mark and install both railings to stay within those requirements.
  
  

Baluster Installation

• Install balusters with even spacing. Calculate the space between balusters and cut two blocks to match that space. Use the blocks to space the balusters during installation. Drill pilot holes and attach each baluster with two screws, one at the top and one at the bottom.
  
  Calculate the space between balusters for an even look. Take the width of one baluster and add 3-1/2 inches to it. Divide this number into the distance between the two posts, and round it to the nearest whole number. This is the number of balusters. Divide the distance between the two posts by the number of balusters, and you have the center-to-center spacing of each baluster. Simply subtract the width of the baluster from this number for the space in between balusters.
  
  

Railing Kits

• Assemble railings and balusters prior to installation. Cut upper and lower rails equally on both ends by cutting half of the amount off each end. Round tubular balusters install over small balls screwed into the railings. Others fit into holes along the upper and lower rails.
  
  Install the railing kits using blocks to hold the railing up. Drill pilot holes for the screws, and attach the rails to the posts with brackets. A long extension for your screwdriver bits will help drive those hard to get at screws in with the least amount of trouble.