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Step 1: Choose your rail length and record your measurements. Use a tape measure to measure from the nose of the top step to the nose of the bottom step. Record this number below and use the chart to determine the length of rail you should order. The post spacing will be equal to the nose to nose dimension. The nose to nose dimension is vital for us to make and ship a rail the exact size you need. |
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Record your measurements. Please include this information in the comment box when you complete your order. This will help us make your rail to fit your steps.
What is your nose to nose?
______feet ______inches. (If this number is greater than 60 inches and you need a three post rail. If you are using the base plate method with a three post rail please see part 2 “measureing for three post rail”)
How many treads/steps do you have? _______
Example: the image above has 4 treads/steps. The top post is mounted to the landing which is not considered a step.
Are your steps concrete, wood, or other?
The actual length of the rail you order depends upon the nose to nose dimension. For example a six foot rail might be five foot six.
Step 2: Choose from three installation methods.
- In-Ground — The posts are cemented in the ground next to the steps. If the distance between the top of the step and the ground is less than 16,” the in ground installation method will work (see illustration). If the distance is greater than 16,” we recommend the base plate, drill method, or contact us for longer posts
- Base Plate — The posts are attached to the steps using posts which have base plates welded to them. This method works well with wood or cement steps and doesn’t require any cement mixing.
- Drill — A hole is drilled into the cement steps and the posts are then cut to length and cemented into place. This is the most professional looking method but may require a bit more work or expense. This method will not work for wooden or fiberglass steps!
Most of our on-line customers write or e-mail us with questions or concerns. We can easily make longer rails with splice points, rails that turn corners and much more. So don’t give up if you don’t see exactly what you need. We build each rail as the orders are placed, and they ship within 3-5 business days; so a custom rail with a few modifications will still be surprisingly affordable, and arrive faster than you think. Simply call Monday-Friday; 7:00 am – 3:00 pm EST or e-mail ezrail@comcast.net
