Deckorators CXT6 Rail - Manual (Page 4)

fig. 8
Step 6: Assemble the lower inner rail and support block assembly.
Position the bottom rail between the posts. Check building code
requirements for maximum spacing on a staircase, typically less than
6". A 6" ball cannot pass through the triangle formed by the bottom
rail, tread and riser. (See fig. 8.) A support block is needed every 2' on-
center. Trim support blocks to desired height and pre-drill 1/8" holes in
the proper location. Holes must be centered on the inner rail for support
blocks to fit properly. Using the support block connectors, fasten support
blocks to the underside of the inner rail.
Step 7: Mark the height of the brackets on the inside of the post using
the bracket placement template included in the kit. Another option is to
use the inner rail as a guide. The top of the bracket should be even with
the top of the inner rail assembly. Drill two 1/8" holes through the bracket
holes shown on the template and through the post sleeve, for both the
upper and lower brackets. Remove the bracket placement template from
the post sleeve and fasten the upper and lower brackets to the post using
two 2" long countersunk screws.
Tip: For best results, use a long drill bit
or add an extension bit to the drill. Repeat on the adjacent post. Set the
inner rail in place and pre-drill eight 1/8" holes at each bracket hole
and into the inner rail. Fasten the rail to the bracket using eight 1" long
countersunk screws.
Step 8: Set the lower rail on the lower inner rail between the posts. Using
two 2-1/2" long countersunk screws, set the two outermost connectors. For
co-ex composite balusters, use the connectors that come with the baluster
kit. For Deckorators aluminum or glass balusters, use the appropriate
stair adaptor (sold separately) with the proper baluster connector (sold
separately). Using the screws provided with the baluster connectors,
install the balance of the baluster connectors onto the lower rail assembly.
Step 9: Determine the length of the balusters. Fig. 3 illustrates how
a 36" high railing might be sized. Use fig. 3 as a planning tool to
determine the height to cut the post sleeves and the balusters.
Note:
Use a fixture to ensure a consistent length (+/- 1/16"). If using co-ex
composite balusters, the baluster will need to be miter cut to the proper
stair angle. Trim the balusters to the required angle (co-ex composite
balusters only) and length. (One per hole in lower rail.) Install balusters
on each connector. Gently tap the balusters with a rubber mallet to
eliminate any gaps. Check for level end to end.
Tip: Wrap painters tape
around the back side of both posts and place balusters against the tape. The
tape will balance the balusters in place until the upper rails are installed.
Remove tape when upper rail is in place.
Step 10: Important: When using Deckorators Designer Baluster Connectors
(both Estate and Classic) in conjunction with the stair adaptors, the upper inner
rail must be inverted (fig. 5). Use an exterior adhesive on the underside of the
Designer Baluster Connectors to prevent the balusters from spinning. Install
the remaining baluster connectors and stair adaptors (if applicable) on the
underside of the upper inner rail. Set the rail onto the balusters, gently
tapping the rail to remove any gaps. Attach the inner rail to the brackets
by pre-drilling eight 1/8" holes at each bracket hole and into the inner rail.
Fasten the rail to the bracket using eight 1" countersunk screws.
Step 11: Measure the distance between the posts and trim the upper
outer rail to length, and set on the assembly.
Taking care not to drill all the
way through the upper rail, use a 1/8" drill bit to pre-drill four 1/2" deep
holes, equally spaced, through the underside of the inner rail and into the
underside of the upper rail. Tip: Place a piece of tape 1-1/2" from the end of the
drill bit. Do not drill past the tape. Fasten cap rail in place using four 1-1/2"
pan head screws.
Step 12: Apply construction adhesive to the inside edges of the post caps
and place over each post sleeve.
Note: Touch-up paint is available to repair any chips or blemishes that occur
during assembly and installation. Contact a Deckorators customer service
agent at 800-332-5724 for availability.
Stair Railing Installation Instructions continued
PAGE 4 - 6' CXT Rail_ENG
Deckorators is not suitable for structural use. It should not be used for primary load-bearing members such as posts, joists, beams or stringers. The same common-sense precautions should be taken
when handling Deckorators as with wood or other building materials. Dust masks and eye protection devices are recommended to avoid possible irritation from sawdust and chips. Gloves will help to
protect the hands. Hands should be washed after doing construction work.
The diagrams and instructions in this brochure are for illustration purposes only and are not meant to replace a licensed professional. Any construction or use of the product must be in accordance with
all local zoning and/or building codes. The consumer assumes all risks and liability associated with the construction or use of this product. The consumer or contractor should take all necessary steps
to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the project, including, but not limited to, wearing the appropriate safety equipment. EXCEPT AS CONTAINED IN THE WRITTEN LIMITED WARRANTY,
WARRANTOR DOES NOT PROVIDE ANY OTHER WARRANTY, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AND SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES, INCLUDING CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
Manufactured by UFP Ventures II, Inc., a Universal Forest Products Company, 801 E. Lessard, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821 877.463.8379 www.deckorators.com
©2012, 2014 Universal Forest Products, Inc. All rights reserved. Deckorators is a registered trademark of Universal Consumer Products, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries.
ASTM D 7032 compliant. See CCRR-0171 at www.ati-es.com for uses and performance levels. 6475_3/14