HOW TO BUILD A MODERN HORIZONTAL RAILING

The last element of our Auburn + Dayton basement remodel project was a custom railing. This stair railing continues to bring all kinds of enjoyment to us and our clients. Fortunately enough for us we get to call our client’s friends and see this beautiful yet functional railing all the time. It’s by far the one thing we’ve created that gets the most questions about how to build one at home. So here’s a step by step guide on how to build a modern horizontal railing. 

Oh yeah…you may want a second set of hands for this project.

Tools you need to make a modern horizontal railing

• Miter saw 
• Drill
• Tape Measure 
• Level 
• Rotary sander or sand block

Materials you need to make a modern horizontal railing

• Lumber (select pine is great for a painted railing, while red or white oak is great for a stained railing)
• Wood glue 
• Construction screws
• Wood filler (or plastic wood)

Instructions for a modern horizontal railing

1. Install your posts at the top and bottom of your stairs. For this railing we used a 4 x 4 post and attached the upper to the wall and stringer, and lower to the floor and stringer with construction screws. Make sure to hold a level tight on all sides prior to fully driving in construction screws. 
2. Once your posts are installed and sturdy, measure the total span of your railing to determine the length of the horizontal balusters, or rails, whatever you prefer to call them. Traditional balusters are vertical and installed every 6 inches, but this modern horizontal railing is a different design.
3. Once you have your measurement, cut the horizontal boards. If your posts are level you’re looking at a 45 degree cut. 
4. To install the horizontal balusters, pre-drill holes on the tops and bottoms of the horizontal boards near the ends with a 3/16” drill bit. This will avoid splitting of the wood when you fasten with your construction screws. 
5. Attach your bottom board first, followed by the middle and top. We recommend spacing the boards by 3” – 5”.
6. Once everything is installed and fastened tight, it’s time to fill all holes with wood filler or plastic wood. Allow to dry as recommended on the product packaging prior to sanding smooth. A good rule of thumb is a day, unless you’re in a rush to finish. Also, make sure the filler you choose is painted or stainable.
7. Finally, it is time to finish with paint or stain. 

We hope this tutorial was insightful and helps you create a modern horizontal railing in your home. This is also a really stunning design to use on exterior spaces, such as a deck or porch. Just make sure you follow local codes and ordinances prior to constructing. 

Let us know how your project goes! We’d love to hear all about it. 

-much love