Installing a custom bar top on your existing deck railing opens up a world of possibilities when it comes to maximizing your outdoor living space. Not only do they provide extra space for serving appetizers and drinks during backyard gatherings, but they also allow you to incorporate personalized design details that make a statement.
In this comprehensive DIY guide, we will walk through everything you need to know to create custom deck railing bar tops, from choosing materials to finalizing the installation.
Overview of Deck Railing Bar Tops
Bar tops transform ordinary deck railings into multifunctional furniture pieces. They create an instant buffet table for alfresco entertaining and provide extra space for setting down grilling tools or lawn games.
Because they are installed directly onto existing balusters, deck railing bar tops maximize your outdoor area without taking up additional footprint space. They also tend to cost less than purchasing full-sized outdoor tables.
Benefits of a Custom Install
Opting for a custom deck railing bar top allows you to cater the size, shape, materials and finish to suit your unique style and needs. For instance, you can create a built-in cooler for drinks, incorporate racks for hanging mugs or utensils, or size it perfectly to your rail dimensions.
You also have creative liberty with the wood selection and stain. Mixing wood types, textures and tones makes for an inherently custom look. Repurposed barn wood and reclaimed flooring infuse vintage, rustic charm.
What to Consider Before Starting Your Project
While custom deck railing bar tops allow for unlimited creativity, some key considerations include:
- Baluster design and spacing
- Weight bearing capacity
- Intended usage (entertaining, grilling storage, etc.)
- Aesthetic vision
- Budget
- DIY skill level
Knowing these details early allows you to plan dimensions, features, materials and fabrication methods accordingly.
Selecting Your Materials
Wood Types for Deck Railing Bar Tops
The wood you select for your custom rail bar top sets the tone for the overall look. Here are some top options:
- Cedar: Gorgeous natural grain. Withstands weather well.
- Redwood: Stunning rust orange hue when stained. Naturally resilient.
- Pressure-Treated Pine: Budget-friendly and versatile. Often used for decking.
- Repurposed Wood: Salvaged barn wood or fencing infuses rustic character through natural patina.
Hardware and Fasteners
In combination with durable wood, commercial grade hardware ensures a sound install. Stainless steel resists rust. Consider:
- Corner brackets
- Table top fasteners
- Bolts
- Screws
- Detachable hinges for removable installations
Waterproofing and Stain
Outdoor bar tops require extra protection from natural elements. After sanding smooth, apply:
- Water-sealant pre-stain
- Exterior-grade polyurethane
- UV-resistant stain
Taking Precise Measurements
Measuring Your Existing Deck Railing
Precision is key for an accurate custom fit. Measure the total length and depth of your deck railing. Account for post widths. If installed against the house, factor edge clearance too.
Allowing Room for Overhang
Add 1-3 inches of overhang on each end of your measurements. This not only allows room for brackets, but gives your bar top a visually appealing floating effect.
Planning For Removable Installs
If desired for off-season storage, ensure your fastening method and overhang allow for easy bar top detachability. Hinges and threaded inserts work well.
Fabrication and Construction
Cutting Your Wood Slabs
Using your final measurements, cut wood to size with a circular saw. Miter edges that meet at corners for seamless joints. Sand cut edges smooth.
Sanding and Finishing the Wood
For an ultra-smooth surface, incrementally sand with 60 to 220 grit paper. Eliminate scratches before applying exterior stain and waterproof sealant.
Reinforcing the Underside
Screw sturdy 1×4 or 2×4 bracing diagonally along the bottom to prevent future warping or sagging under weight loads.
Installing Supporting Brackets
Predrill bracket holes on bar top underside. Screw corner brackets and table top fasteners securely into the wood with 3-4″ screws.
Finalizing the Install
Attaching Bar Top to Railing
With a helper, position bar top onto deck railing, allowing desired overhang length. Attach brackets to railing posts. Insert bolts through fasteners into railing.
Testing Weight Capacity Before Use
Gradually add weight like patio blocks to ensure railing can withstand load. Most support 100-300 lbs if properly reinforced.
Adding Decorative Details
With the structural work complete, the fun design details come in. Consider corner trim, wine glass racks, or a mounted bottle opener shaped like a boat cleat!
Usage and Maintenance
Entertaining, Grilling and Storage
Deck railing bar tops instantly expand layout options for outdoor gatherings. Use for buffet service, candles and decor, grilling tools and prep space, and lawn game equipment.
Cleaning and Seasonal Removal
For removable tops, detach hardware to store indoors during off seasons. Reseal and refresh waterproofing treatments annually. Cover when not in use.
Protecting Your Investment
Allow finish to fully cure before use – up to 2 weeks for oil-based. Gradually introduce weight loads to prevent damage over time. Install bumpers on corners.
Inspiration for Custom Looks
Rustic and Reclaimed Styles
For a timeworn look, fasten reclaimed barn wood planks with galvanized hardware. Add vintage-style details like an antique door hinge bottle opener.
Built-In Cooler Designs
Hollow out storage under the bar top surface to embed a weatherproof cooler for drinks on tap. Integrate drains for easy emptying.
Snack Rail and Cup Holder Ideas
Conveniently incorporate snack ledges or partitions for serving salsas and dips. Or, intersperse threaded inserts along the edge for removable cup holders.
Playing with different wood grains and finishes creates visual interest. Try pairing smooth cedar with rugged barnwood accents for an eclectic combo.
Equipped with this all-encompassing guide, you can tackle creating personalized deck railing bar tops like a pro. Show off your style and entertain in savvy style with custom rail bars designed just for you.
