Guard Rail Post To Concrete

SmithBuilt

I have an existing porch slab and need to install 4x4 post for a guardrail. Is there a good method?

Chris Johnson

Simpson makes a number of post brackets, I have a preference when fastening things like this to use the Titan HD's to secure the bracket to the concrete. You called it a porch slab, so I will assume it is on grade, do you know the thickness where you need to set post? A clean method would be to core dill and recess in the post and grout around it for a clean professional look, but if the slab is thin this won't work.

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Chris

Forry

I've dealt with this a few times. If the post needs lateral support (and I'm guessing it does), the sturdiest method I've found is to build a 2"x2" steel post with a 3 1/2" base, bolt it down with wedge anchors, and wrap the steel post with 1x4's and 1x3's to make it look like a 4x4. I like to build the wrap seperately, then drill out the bottom for the tops of the anchors (careful, I F'd up my finger real good once when the wood exploded and the bit ran into my finger... clumsy!), slip nthe wrap over the "4x4" and tap a couple shims between the steel post and the wood to make it tight. Then cap it so it looks good and keeps the water out. Not too hard, looks good, and stout as hell.

John Hyatt

I have a local steel guy over on the south side build the whole gard rail for me. They come with lower shoe brackets just bolt the thing to the creet. One coat black primer 16$ R FT. Cant be beat in any mans gun range. J

SmithBuilt

I checked out the Simpson line and didn't see anything I liked.

It does need lots of lateral support. I like your idea about the steel post and may use that. I need to match other posts.

I wonder about the kit that is made from angle iron. A 3 1/2 " pc on each side of the post. Screwed to the floor with 3 screws on each side and 3 in each side of the post. Seems I've used one on stair rail posts. Just tapcon it to the floor.

Forry

What are the posts you need to match?

SmithBuilt

treated 4x4's.

Forry

Hmmm, not painted I suppose? Angle iron won't be as rigid, but still plenty strong. Another way is to rip the pt at a 45 corner to corner, then clean out the middle and put it together around a 2x2 steel post, gotta make sure to re-treat the inside and cut ends.... sounds like a pain in the a$$. What about drilling a ways up the middle with a 5/8 ships auger, then pounding the post down over a 3/4" rod epoxy'd into the 'crete? Might split the pt, but .....