Build Your Railing

How it works: 1 pick your rail (top and bottom), 2 choose 8, 10 or 12 ft and number of sections, 3 pick balusters and we count them for under-4 inch spacing, 4 add everything to cart in one click

Pick a rail, a section length and a baluster. We work out how many balusters each section needs to keep the gaps under 4", then add everything to your cart in one click.

How to install your railing

A short version of the Spectis balustrade install steps. Read the full guide before you start.

ADH100 on every jointPL Premium adhesive on all bedding and butt joints, on all products.
Rail height 36" to 38"Standard height. 30" does not meet code (decorative only).
4" spacing ruleSpace balusters so a 4" ball cannot pass between them.
  1. Lay out the newels. Use 12' as the maximum railing length, keep all lengths on a run equal, and mark the center of each newel post.
  2. Fit the top brackets to the newels. Measure the bottom rail plus baluster height ("X"). Mark the bottom rail height, offset the top bracket X inches above it, then bolt it on with adhesive behind it and wood screws in the outer holes.
  3. Anchor the newels. On a wood deck, add blocking if needed and lag the floor flange to the deck, then thread in the 1/2" rod. On concrete, drill a 5/8" hole at least 2 1/4" deep, set the anchor, and thread in the rod.
  4. Set each newel. Slide the post over the rod with ADH100 between the post base and the deck, drop the "C" channel into the top slot, then add the lock washer and nut and tighten. Cut the rod off no higher than the top of the newel.
  5. Cut the rails. Measure each span between newels, cut the top and bottom rails to fit, and label each pair.
  6. Space and drill. Plan baluster spacing to the 4" rule with even end gaps. Drill holes on the rail centerline, 1/4" larger than the baluster pipe and 1" deep.
  7. Pre-assemble each section. Glue the bottom rail holes, twist the balusters in, glue the tops and fit the top rail. Strap it loosely, square and space the balusters, brad nail them, tighten, and let it cure 24 hours.
  8. Add support blocks on spans over 8'. Cut the block to the bottom rail height off the deck, glue its top, and screw up into the bottom rail.
  9. Fit the bottom brackets. Glue and bolt the KIR kit bracket under each end of the bottom rail with the supplied 5/16" bolts, and notch the underside of the top rail for the bracket hardware.
  10. Install the sections. Glue the rail ends, rest each section on the top brackets with adhesive at every contact, screw up into the top rail and through the side into the newel with 2" wood screws. Make sure the rail ends are tight to the newels first.
  11. Cap the newels. Glue the post tops, center the caps and brad nail them.

Check with your local building code authority before you order and install. Spectis railings must end at newel posts, walls or another load-bearing member. They cannot be joined to each other.

Full install guide with photos Balustrade catalog (PDF) Shop ADH100 adhesive

Questions about your install? Call us at 800-986-1250.