Installation Guide

FIXED RAIL INSTALLATION:
1. Lay the bottom rail (B), with baluster connectors facing up and centered between the posts, on the stair nosing from
top to bottom, adjacent to the posts and mark a line on the rail from the inside of each post (1). Also, make a reference
mark on the bracket side of both posts at the point where the top of the rail meets the post (2).
Note: This reference mark will be used to locate saddle brackets in step 5.
2. Place the top rail (A) next to the bottom rail (B), align the baluster connectors and duplicate the
marks from the bottom rail cut line onto the top rail. Now mark the top rail 5/8” shorter on each end;
this is the cut line for top rail. Only the top rail is cut 5/8” shorter on each end.
3. Cut the rails along the marked lines.
4. Install the base post trim on the upper and lower posts.
5. To install the post cap, set it in place on top of the post and strike with a rubber
mallet to drive the post cap onto the post. Silicone or water based caulking may
be used to secure the post cap and base trim.
6. The MoistureShield
®
Pro Rail can be installed with or without a deck board installed
on the top rail (A). If installing without a deck board on the top rail (A), on both the
upper and lower post, measure and mark a level line up from the reference marks previously completed
in fixed rail instructions step 1(31” for a 36” rail height or 37” for a 42” rail height).
If installing with a deck board on the top rail (A) reduce the above dimensions by the thickness of the deck
board being used. These measurements may vary by local code or personal preference.
7. Align screw holes in the upper and lower saddle brackets (C&D) on the marked lines. Make sure the brackets are
centered on the posts. Mark the screw hole locations with a pencil.
8. Attach saddle brackets (C&D) with 1” self-drilling screws (J) at the marked screw locations in step 6. Pre-drilling is
recommended.
9. Install support block connectors (I) using 1” self-drilling screw (J) to the underside of bottom rail (B). The
support block (H) will be installed in step 13.
Note: One support block, cut from support block material (H), is recommended
for rails measuring 72” in length or less; two support blocks for longer
lengths. If one support block is required, install support block connector (I) at
center point of bottom rail (B). If two support blocks are required, install support block
connectors (I) equal distance from each end of the bottom rail (B).
10. To assemble rail, begin with top rail (A) and insert balusters over pre-installed
connectors. Use a rubber mallet to tap the balusters into place.
Note: It is recommended to use the box as a pad to prevent scuffing of the painted
finish. If installing square balusters, make sure they are properly seated in the slot on
the underside of the top rail to prevent twisting.
11. Attach balusters to bottom rail (B) beginning at one end and working to the
opposite end. Stand the assembly upside down on the surface of the box and tap
the bottom rail with a rubber mallet to secure the balusters in place. Stand assembly
upright.
Note: Notches are provided on the front of the box to help align balusters and aid in the
assembly of the rail in this step.
Note: If installing a deck board on the top rail (A), omit this step and do not install the rail cap.
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