How To Install Post Caps & Finials
Post caps and finials add the perfect finishing touch to the top of your deck railing. Since post caps are flat, installing them is simple and straightforward.
To learn how to install them, keep reading, or check out our installation videos below.
Place Cap On Post
First, place the post cap on the post to make sure it fits and is level. You can either choose to eyeball the placement, or measure it to be more exact.
Sand Down if Needed
If the post cap isn’t level or doesn’t fit, either cut the post to make it square, or sand it down to level it out.
Attach Post Cap
To attach the post cap, there are three methods you can choose from:
- Apply a dab of construction glue to the inside of the cap and place it on the post.
- Use a staple gun to attach the post cap to the porch post.
- Use a hammer and nails.
For extra security, you can use both glue and staples or nails.
Final Installation (Caps With a Screw Stem)
Installing a finial is simple and requires few tools other than a drill. It’s a combination of two pieces.
Attach Base to Post
The first step is to attach the base to the post with a staple gun or screw. We typically just eyeball this step, but you can use a tape measure to be more exact.
Determine Center and Drill
Determine the exact center of the base and mark it with a pencil. Then, drill a hole into the base about 1/8″ deep.
Attach Finial
Lastly, screw the finial into the hole until tight. For extra security, put some construction glue on the bottom of the finial and/or the top of the base.
If you have additional questions about how to install post caps or finials, feel free to contact us.
Helpful Resources
Browse through our most popular how-to guides and other resources.
How-To Guides
We have many short Do It Yourself articles on all of our products. For example, if you are looking for advice on working with our spindles, click here.
Baluster Calculator
Easily determine the perfect space between railing spindles and figure out how many you'll need with our convenient baluster calculator.
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