Fortress Technologies Al13 HOME Installation Instructions Manual

It is the responsibility of the installer to meet all code and safety requirements, and to obtain all required building permits.
The deck and railing installer should determine and implement appropriate installation techniques for each installation
situation. Fortress Railing Products and its distributors shall not be held liable for improper or unsafe installations.
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Fortress Al HOME posts must always be secured to the deck framing. Fortress Al HOME posts should never be
attached to only the deck boards.
Read Instructions Completely Before Starting Installation
Note
When cutting Fortress railing, it is very important to complete the following at cut points:
• Remove all metal shavings from the cut area.
• File any sharp edges left by cutting. Thoroughly wipe and remove any filings, grime or dirt from the railing.
• Apply two coats of Fortress zinc based touch-up paint to the cut area. If touch up is at rail ends, allow paint to dry before
connecting bracket to post.
• Be sure to remove any metal shavings from the surface of deck, patio or balcony to prevent stains on the deck surface.
Torx Safety Tips
• Always use the lowest speed setting on drill.
• To reduce chance of bit breakage, start tightening with drill on low torque setting and work up until screw is secured.
• Tip: Pre-drill holes with 3/16" drill bit.
Required Materials
Miter saw with carbide fine tooth blade, reciprocating saw or portable band saw, T-25 driver bits, #2 phillips head screwdriver,
#2 phillips head bit, 3/16" drill bit, 5/16" nut driver bit, bit extender, tape measure, socket set, speed square, touch-up paint,
touch-up paint pen, center punch, level, framing square, rubber mallet, eye protection, and other personal protective equipment
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Mount Al HOME Posts*
• Wood blocking tied to deck frame must be installed and constructed with treated dimensional lumber with a minimum
thickness of 1-1/2".
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• Position the edge of Al HOME base plate a minimum of ½" from the inside edge of rim joist.
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• Mount Al HOME posts at appropriate points based on panel length.
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• Attach Al HOME posts with 3/8" X 3-1/2" hex head galvanized bolts.
Added Blocking
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*Reference Fortress Al HOME post mounting instructions
Installation Instructions for Fortress Al HOME
Traditional Adjustable Panels with Simplified
Stair Brackets and Al HOME Posts
1/2" minimum
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Base plate barrier
must remain between
post and deck surface
REV 052118
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