How to Guide
DECK RAIL POST TO RIM BOARD
FASTENMASTER TECHNICAL BULLETIN 
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
1. Choose the correct length (6-1/4" or 8") and fastening  
pattern for each post to rim application based on the  
illustrated conditions.
2. Mark the surface of the wood with the correct pattern. 
3. If a flush mounted head is required, use a 1-1/4" spade bit  
to create a 1/4" deep recess in the rim or post.
4. Remove the pre-assembled ThruLOK nut from the screw and 
using a 1/2" drill on low speed/high torque setting, install 
the ThruLOK screw and washer into the outside face of the 
application until the screw is 1/4" to 1/8" from being flush.
5. Thread the ThruLOK nut onto the exposed threaded end of  
the fastener. Firmly twist on the nut by hand until snug.
6. Return to driving the screw in the 
remaining 1/4" to 1/8" until the 
washer and nut are firmly drawn 
together.
7. Make sure that the point of the  
ThruLOK fastener has passed the  
“MIN LINE” printed on the nut. 
8. Repeat until all of the fasteners are 
installed correctly according to the 
specifications contained in this bulletin.
153 BOWLES ROAD, AGAWAM, MA 01001 413
.
789
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0252 800
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518
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3569 WWW.FASTENMASTER.COM
Effective July 1, 2014. Please reference our website to ensure that you are using the most up to date version.
CoNNECTIoN DETAILS
According to the current International Residential Code for One and Two-Family Dwellings, Table R301.5 guardrails and 
handrails must be designed to withstand a single concentrated load of 200 pounds in any direction. A critical part of 
this connection is making a strong connection between the guardrail post and the rim board of the deck. In most cases, 
a 1/2" through-bolt or carriage bolt is used to make this connection. When installed as instructed in this bulletin, the 
ThruLOK System can replace 1/2" bolts, meeting the 200 pound design load for this part of the connection. 
deck post to single rim joist deck post to doUBle rim or  
single rim WitH Blocking
APPLICATIONS
FastenMaster
MIN
MIN Line




