Anchor Guardrail to Composite Deck

[BSVBD]

Does anyone have details or suggestions on how to anchor steel guardrail to composite deck?

I've obtained blocking details from two different companies. I'm looking for options.

Thank you!

 

[KootK]

How thick is the deck? How thick is the slab? Is there an edge angle that you can fasten to? Is there glass involved?

In very general terms:

Attach to an edge angle or anchor into the concrete with shallow anchors if those things will work. Otherwise, consider through bolting to a plate, angle, or tube set beneath the deck.

I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.

 

[BSVBD]

I'm sorry! I should have known there are two types (or more) of composite deck.

I'm referring to the plasticized exterior 5/4 wood look-alike. Please see attached.

Does that change the picture?

 

[BSVBD]

Let's try the attachment again...

 

[KootK]

That does change things. Can you fasten to a perimeter framing member or a member below the composite? If you really must fasten to the composite, I'm afraid that I can't offer much help.

I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.

 

[jayrod12]

As far as I know, there's minimal capacity in that composite decking.

I would be extending the post down to the meat below the decking. Or at a bare minimum, extending the connection to some meat below and treat the decking as blocking only.

 

[racookpe1978]

The detail you attached shows that five things are required below each railing post:
The solid blocking board below the decking
The 4x through bolts and nuts holding the railing post steel mounts though the decking through that blocking board.
The two sideboards around the blocking board
The proper mounting (not end nails!) tieing the two sideboards to the outer deck beams.

So, no, according to this detail sheet, the composite decking alone cannot be used the mount the railing steel post foundations to the deck.