Build a 42-Inch Deck Rail With Receiver-Mounted Balusters

The Problem

Rail height and baluster spacing are both code numbers, and the parts have to add up to them: this deck is on a rental property, where the local requirement is 42 inches instead of a typical deck's 36. The stack of post, rails, balusters, and cap has to hit that number exactly.

The Technique

1. Work the stack backward from the required height. Here: posts cut at 40-1/2", plus a top cap plate, lands the rail at 42". Stock 36" balusters fit inside that with the top and bottom rails.
2. Lay out baluster positions every 4 inches along the bottom rail, and transfer the same marks to the top rail so the two match.
3. Screw a receiver at each mark, centered on the width of the rail board, on both rails.
4. Sandwich the balusters: set each one onto its bottom receiver, then bring the top rail down over the tops — fiddly for a moment, not terrible — so every baluster is captured top and bottom.
5. Fasten the assembled section to the posts through the pocket holes drilled in the rail ends.