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2x4 (PLASTIC) Railing Connectors (Read 1,124 times)
 
Ed Weber
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2x4 (PLASTIC) Railing Connectors
Apr 2nd, 2014 at 10:06am
 
For those who do some minor carpentry with standard lumber, 2x4's and such. Here's one that I received in my email and honestly, I don't know where to start.  Shocked Sad Angry Huh Undecided
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Chuck Beland
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Re: 2x4 (PLASTIC) Railing Connectors
Reply #1 - Apr 2nd, 2014 at 10:29am
 
I wouldn't trust it. especially thinking a child could be climbing on it. I would be to afraid it could give way. or even a adult leaning on it. I rather have screws holding them together.

But I know nothing about carpentry this is just my common sense talking
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« Last Edit: Apr 2nd, 2014 at 10:30am by Chuck Beland »  

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Re: 2x4 (PLASTIC) Railing Connectors
Reply #2 - Apr 2nd, 2014 at 1:01pm
 
Being Polycarb, should be strong enough. Stronger than 2 screws in end grain especialy if cap fits around end of rail. Tappered dovetail ensures tight fit.  Can be taken apart to replace rail.  JM2CW.  Mechanical Engineer and wood worker.   Glenn J.
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Ed Weber
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Re: 2x4 (PLASTIC) Railing Connectors
Reply #3 - Apr 2nd, 2014 at 3:33pm
 
Here are some of my concerns off the top of my head

1. Screws driven "straight" into end-grain, = weak connection
2. Top screw on rail connection too close to top of rail, potential splitting leaving all pressures on single (bottom) screw
3. Both he rail and post connection screw holes are in-line, should be staggered and/or alternately angled to avoid splitting
4. No ratings, codes, or regional compliance's mentioned, (is it legal) let alone safe.
5."durable polycarbonate" is vaguely descriptive, unknown strength or longevity.
6. Longevity, will it become brittle due to climate, most polycarbonate things will at some point.
7. Expense

If this was marketed as a K-D type of connection, intended for temporary use I wouldn't see a problem. There is however, no mention of this and it "seems" to be an alternative to traditional post and rail construction.
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JimQuarles
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Re: 2x4 (PLASTIC) Railing Connectors
Reply #4 - Apr 2nd, 2014 at 6:04pm
 
Years back I used similar fittings made from metal for removable railing sections.  The part on the end of the rail was cup shaped and had screws that went in from the side.  There was also a spot to drive an angled screw from the top that locked them in place.
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« Last Edit: Apr 2nd, 2014 at 6:04pm by JimQuarles »  

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Re: 2x4 (PLASTIC) Railing Connectors
Reply #5 - Apr 2nd, 2014 at 8:16pm
 
these are made for those who are too lazy to do a good job and want it done fast.
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Re: 2x4 (PLASTIC) Railing Connectors
Reply #6 - Apr 3rd, 2014 at 4:44pm
 
I don't see these giving you much fudge-factor. Better hope you have precise cuts and never get a warped board.
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