Step 8: Railings and Stairs

 Our initial thought regarding the railings were to have the 4 ft high section with a level 2x4 on the top. But as it turned out there was enough of the 4x4 railing posts to extend the posts a few inches above the 4 ft sections. This way we could put an additional 2x4 on top of the railing posts, for style points.

The first partially done section of railing. 

Each section may look equally space, but actually in some spots they are n't due to the way the railing posts had to be positioned with the joists. 

As a result of the way the railing posts are staggered, all the black picket section were individually measured and laid out. The pickets are consistently spaced within sections (bounded by 4x4 posts), but not consistent overall.   

Makeshift stairs. At least the stair stringers are attached... I think.

A few sections almost done (lacking the top railing detail)