How To Anchor Wrought Iron Railing To Concrete

Wrought iron railing can add decoration and safety to a home. If you’re installing wrought iron railing on a concrete floor you’ll discover that it’s not a difficult job and one that can be completed in a relatively short time. Anchoring wrought iron railing to concrete requires a few items you might not normally have in your toolbox. However, they’re easy to obtain.

Step 1 - Measure

Lay out the railing to determine the distance between the legs that will be set into the concrete. Measure twice to be certain you have the distance correct. Next, measure the same distance on the concrete and make the measurements in pencil. Double-check the measurements to ensure they’re correct.

Step 2 - Drill

Measure the size of the post of the railing that will be anchored to the concrete. You’re going to need to drill a hole that’s a deep as the post and also 1/2 inch larger around. Before you begin, be certain to wear safety goggles to protect your eyes.

Select the right size drill bit. You’ll need to use a masonry drill in order to penetrate the concrete. Drill your hole and measure it, continuing until you’re satisfied it’s the proper size. Take your wet/dry vac and put the hose nozzle over the hole to suck out any concrete debris that might be lodged there. It’s important the hole is fully cleaned before you move on.

Step 3 - Epoxy

Dry fit the railing into the holes you’ve made. This not ensures the holes are large enough to accommodate the posts, but it also allows you to check the holes are of even depth. If you need to make any adjustments, do more drilling and clean again with the wet/dry vac before you move on. Take the epoxy and mix it according to the instructions that come with it. You’ll need to use a caulking gun to apply it. Squeeze the epoxy into the area around each post on the railing until you’ve filled the hole.

Step 4 - Dry

You now need to ensure that the railing dries level. Use your level to verify it is straight in all directions. You can use wood to support the railing as you won’t be able to hold it until it dries completely. By bracing where necessary with wood you’ll be able to keep the railing stable. Keep checking regularly with a level as the epoxy dries, and adjust the wood bracing as needed to keep the railing level. Keep the bracing in place until the epoxy has completely dried and the wrought iron railing doesn’t move if you push against it.