[Part 3] How to dependably replace a deck guard rail--Don't miter wood deck top caps

Don't miter wet lumber! NO GOOD! It looks next level when you install it, but 2-weeks later, it's pinched at the top and wide open at the bottom as the wood dries out. I may have invented this. I use what I call a "stepped joint". The wood still moves, but it all moves the same. I've had some in service for over a year and they are still closed, attractive and worry free for me.

[valtim]

Your absolute right . This looks great I'll definitely use this on my next deck. Thanks for the tip.

[terrymoeller]

For someone who hates doing “notches “ you sure are good at it .

[warrenfrazier]

I use a half lap joint with 3x construction adhesive. Looks great, never moves

[joelex]

Use kiln dried pressure treated. More expensive but doesn't shrink.

[valtim]

Your exactly right. This looks great. I'll definitely use this on my next deck. What do you do on the 45 degree angels. Also a stept joint?

[Mad.Man.Marine]

That’s why any finish type stuff that you’ll see. Like handrails and facia. I always have a pile of pt sitting outside so it’s acclimated and mostly dry. Means you have to pre drill fasteners. But it’s worth it when all your joints don’t have a 1/4” gap.

[doublezerosplit]

now this is a clean look and great solution to scissor miters

[richardbaer]

I do the exact same thing and I also do it at the 90° corners. It gives you more room to dowel in or lag in with screws from the edge

[Treeclimberadrenaline]

Id like to see more of this. Before and after? Thanks!

[richardq]

Nice. Also Increases area to add glue . Great tip....this will be on my next deck. Thanks

[RuthlessMindset]

So order your top caps a month early to dry out.
Splice and screw from bottom to ensure tight joints!

[StepheMauro-khpx]

Built my 3 level 1000 sq ft PT deck in 1996 . Miter joints . Most are as tight as the day I installed them. Of course properly gluing and screwing them together may have a bit to do with that. It was also a very good # 1 board . % 2 is much harder to control and looks pretty lousy anyway . Just some $$$ perspective . 1000 sw ft all PT deck. Lumber = 5, 500 in 96. Now prob 15, 000 . Just to replace the decking now with Azek or equivalent would be close to 15, 000 in material alone . Crazy shit 💩

[mikewilson-ostc]

You can also 45 them over a post P L the miter screw them at the points and the post ...

[daddyvet]

Using hangers on that is diabolical. Why not have a solid board to board connection?

[AMERICA_FRST]

I dont see how thats going to stop it from shrinking ir what ever a gap will be a gap.
Ive never had the issue if that tho given h dont do it everyday maybe do a deck a coulle times a year but havent had any issues with my railings or deck boards

[ronallen]

An open joint is still an open joint no matter what you spread

[Burritosarebetterthantacos]

Yep, I always just overlap the joints. Miters never go well!

[Slingbladess]

2x top plate ties posts together same for fence you could also add a deck board on top of 2x4 top plate and shelter railing from direct moisture plus decking has a nice beveled edge for handrail

[chadhamilton]

that's why you Bevel minor set it up

[stephendavies]

I personally dry out all the pieces that need to be mitered or extended for long runs before I start the job. Infact I put a lot of lumber in my 1000 sq ft kiln to have on hand for the higher quality jobs . But then I'm a professional 😮.