How To Attach Double Railing Posts Set Back From Corner

Paired corner posts that are offset from an outside 90 degree corner are not a very common railing construction method and for a number of reasons. But if you have to set back a pair of railing posts at a corner, here is what it looks like.

Just imagine the challenge that is created by this building style with the large gap between the posts. A railing section has to continue on from each post and meet at the corner where no post will be.

This means the two bottom rail members must join together and be attached by way of a 45 degree miter cut or an side over end butt joint and screws.

It's an odd railing post arrangement.

But this is how you would do the blocking of the framing and attaching everything correctly.

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Required Hardware And Cost

When you have set back paired corner posts posts like this you have to figure out how you want the corner railing sections to meet. There can be a big gap from the edge of the deck to bottom rail.

This is not a great way to design or build corner railing posts but you may find it necessary. The posts will be stronger but you will have to block properly and use all the required connectors and hardware. Remember to notch the last deck board around each post.

Consider your climate and whether your wood railing posts will be vulnerable to moisture damage over the years because of direct wood on wood contact.

Some people will be a bit initimidated by the level of skill needed to build their wood railing like this.

No doubt it will be strong but this is probably more suitable for a seasoned carpenter. It's also quite pricey at almost $52 in hardware alone.

If you share these sentiments, there are railing solutions for decks available to get you a high quality and beautiful looking railing.

What you may like to consider is building deck railing with posts that are connected to the deck boards by a low profile surface mount anchor.

Take for example this low profile internal wood railing post anchor shown here.

At less than twenty bucks, it can be used in code compliant residential rail applications when installed according to the manufacturer's engineering guidelines.

A Simple And Cost Effective Option

This is a potential solution for building new wood deck railings, replacing rotted railing posts, or as support posts for pergolas, gazebos, decks, etc.

Then watch this video of a surface mount wood post anchor that has been tested for use with wood deck railings and costs less than $20 with all the hardware you will ever need and it covers all the possible situations described above.

So there you have it.

A thorough explanation of building traditional wood railing for decks and alternative solutions for great looking deck railing. You decide which is right for your specific project.

Find out more about this innovative post anchoring solution.