Install Top Rail and Finish with Sanding

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What happens here

For the top rail, secure the end posts by setting them in 1.5 inches. This inset matches the width of the support posts, creating a flush and integrated look for the handrail. Use miter cuts for all corner joints on the top rail. This is crucial because if you butt-joint them together, a gap will form as the wood dries and shrinks. To achieve a smooth and refined finish on the top rail, first use a hand planer to shave off any rough edges or high spots. Follow this with a random orbital sander to ensure a perfectly smooth surface, making the handrail comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.

Goal: Complete the top rail installation and prepare for final finishing.

Tools and materials

Drill Makita — Securing the top rail
Hand Planer — Rough shaping and removing high spots on the top rail
Miter Saw Makita — Making precise miter cuts for the top rail
Random Orbital Sander Makita — Achieving a smooth finish on the top rail
Sandpaper — For sanding the top rail
Screws — Fastening the top rail
Top Rail Lumber Treated Lumber — The top horizontal piece of the railing

What they say

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Now, one of the things I want to point out is Frankie's end post is actually set in an inch and a half right there. That width matches the width of the support post for his handrail. Frankie is getting the top rail put in place. He's got a miter cut on the corner, of course. But if you guys can't use a solid piece of wood for the entire top rail, he's also got a miter cut right where the two pieces will connect. This is important because if you butt join them together, when the wood dries, you'll have a gap. So Frankie uses a hand planer prior to doing the final sanding just to get it close, but I think that's more by choice than necessity. Yep. Yep. Your preference.

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