How to install rail post on sloped concrete ramp?
#1
Member
Thread Starter

I have 50-feet of concrete sidewalk with 16-feet of concrete ramp at the end. I will be installing aluminum rail panels & post the full length. My question is about how to install the posts on the ramp.
The ramp pitch is about 1:10, and if I attach the post plates flat on the concrete, the posts will be about 6-degrees from vertical. I'm considering making a wedge shim matching the footprint of the post base about 1/2" thick, tapering to a point, for each post. This will make the posts vertical but I haven't yet thought of a way to do that with a clean looking result.
Surely some of the great minds here have dealt with this before. How would you attach a post plate to a ramp?
The ramp pitch is about 1:10, and if I attach the post plates flat on the concrete, the posts will be about 6-degrees from vertical. I'm considering making a wedge shim matching the footprint of the post base about 1/2" thick, tapering to a point, for each post. This will make the posts vertical but I haven't yet thought of a way to do that with a clean looking result.
Surely some of the great minds here have dealt with this before. How would you attach a post plate to a ramp?
#2
I'm guessing you already have the posts with the attached plates ?
Otherwise I'd core drill the concrete and recess the poles.
You could take the poles to a welder and have him cut the plates off and re-welded at the proper angle.
Otherwise I'd core drill the concrete and recess the poles.
You could take the poles to a welder and have him cut the plates off and re-welded at the proper angle.
#3
Member
Thread Starter
This is an update with additional info. I have the posts.
Here's a screen shot from the install instructions:

My basic CAD drawing showing the problem:

Here's a link to the Menards page where they're sold:
https://www.menards.com/main/buildin...1870524537.htm
And finally, a link to the manufacturer's page (Williams Architectural Products) where they have nice detailed install instructions and a few install videos:
https://williamsrail-fence.com/insta...l-instructions
Here's a screen shot from the install instructions:

My basic CAD drawing showing the problem:

Here's a link to the Menards page where they're sold:
https://www.menards.com/main/buildin...1870524537.htm
And finally, a link to the manufacturer's page (Williams Architectural Products) where they have nice detailed install instructions and a few install videos:
https://williamsrail-fence.com/insta...l-instructions
Last edited by EvenSteven; 08-11-18 at 09:10 AM.
#4
Member
Thread Starter
Pjmax, The posts are thin aluminum - I think TIG welding would be dicey. I added an update with a picture and links to the seller and manufacturer sites.
#5
I have installed those before. Your best bet will be to cut a shim from something that won't rot. Like pvc trim (azek) or a composite deck board.
you could also buy an aluminum post and use a miter saw to cut a sliver of a shim at your angle and set it under the post before you anchor it down. For minor adjustments, use 1/4" flat washers under the post base.
you could also buy an aluminum post and use a miter saw to cut a sliver of a shim at your angle and set it under the post before you anchor it down. For minor adjustments, use 1/4" flat washers under the post base.