An aluminum railing is an elegant addition to any deck or balcony. When properly installed, it provides the strength and support needed to keep residents and visitors safe. Our team has put together this aluminum railing installation guide to help answer any questions you might have. 

Tools Needed to Install Aluminum Railing 

Here’s a list of the tools you’ll need to get started. 

  1. Tape Measure
  2. Rubber Mallet
  3. Hammer Drill (if installed on concrete)
  4. Power Drill 
  5. Square Bit Driver
  6. Level
  7. Saw
  8. Fine Tooth Blade

Always wear proper safety gear, such as safety glasses, when assembling and installing a railing. 

Deck Railing Permits

Before installing any deck railing, you must first obtain all necessary building permits. What is required will vary from state to state. Your contractor should be familiar with the permits that are required and can help you get them. 

If you’re a DIYer who is installing your own aluminum railing, be sure to check with your local municipality or county to learn more about what permits you need and how to obtain them.

How to Install Aluminum Railing

Here’s a general guide for installing an aluminum railing. It’s important to note that this simply serves as a guide and will not address every possible situation. 

Step One: Install Railing Posts and Post Trim

Before beginning the installation, measure the post spacing. Posts should be spaced according to the application and the length of the top rail. 

Once you have determined where the posts are to be installed, place the leveling plate between the post and the surface. Attach the plate to the surface using bolts or lags. Partially tighten. Use a 3/16’’ Allen wrench to turn the set screws to level the post. Fully tighten bolts or lags. 

Move on to the next post until all posts are installed. 

Step Two: Attach the Bottom Rail 

Measure between posts and subtract ¼’’. If necessary, cut the bottom rail by taking an equal amount from each end of the rail. However, do not cut through the baluster holes. 

Once the rail is the appropriate length, slide the bracket over the rail and put the rail in place. Slide the bracket against the post and secure it with #12 screws. Secure the bracket to the railing using #10 pan-head screws. 

Step Three: Install the Balusters 

Line up and insert the provided balusters in each hole of the bottom rail. Be sure to push the balusters in firmly. 

Step Four: Attach the Top Rail 

Attach the top rail onto the top of the balusters and the top face of the rail. Once again, use the brackets to attach the rail to the post using #12 screws. After ensuring that the balusters are firmly in place, use #10 pan-head screws to secure them to the rail. 

Not all railings include a middle rail, however, if there is one, repeat the above steps. 

Step Five: Install Post Caps 

Set the post caps on the top of the post and use a rubber mallet to set each one into place. 

Fencing & Railing Solutions Can Help Answer Your Railing Installation Questions 

If you have any questions about how to measure and order the correct amount of railing or how to install aluminum railing on a deck, contact our team. We can be reached at (610) 466-5482 or by email at info@railingaluminum.com.