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Safety Cue
Task-specific safety guidance for ordinary work hazards.
Project 05
Set Posts Plumb and Aligned
Install structural or fence posts on accepted footings and post bases, brace them plumb in two directions, align tops and faces to the approved reference, cut and treat post tops, and document the completed installation before any beam, rail, or wall framing depends on them.
Field Cue System
These cues appear at the point of work. They identify safety, code, manufacturer, and measurement issues before they become rework or hazards.
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Critical Safety Cue
Serious injury, fire, or major damage is possible.
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Field Safety Cue
Practical work-area safety: lighting, cords, footing, and housekeeping.
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Code Alert
Local requirements vary. Verify permit, inspection, and jurisdictional rules.
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Manufacturer Cue
Follow product-specific instructions for tools, materials, and equipment.
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Measurement Cue
Clearance, layout, spacing, and reference-point guidance.
Job Overview
This project qualifies you to install structural or fence posts on footings and post bases that have already passed inspection and reached their approved condition, and to bring those posts to plumb, alignment, and finished elevation before any framing that depends on them begins. The finished work product is a set of posts installed on the approved supports, connected with the specified connector and fasteners, braced plumb in two directions, aligned to the required faces or centers, cut to the specified top elevation, end-treated, and documented for the framing chapters that follow.
You will confirm the footings and post bases are ready to load, inspect and prepare each post, position and temporarily brace the first controlling posts, establish alignment lines from those controlling posts, set every intermediate post to the same line and spacing, transfer a consistent top elevation across the run, cut and treat the post tops, and recheck the entire installation before releasing it to the next chapter.
This project depends entirely on Project 04. No post is set on a footing or post base that has not passed its required inspection and reached the approved cure and connection condition. The posts installed here carry every beam, joist, rail, wall, or roof load addressed in the chapters that follow, so plumb, alignment, and connection accuracy established now are not corrected later without disturbing completed work.
Skills You Will Demonstrate
- OS-025 — Select post material appropriate to the approved size, grade, treatment, and exposure rating for its actual location.
- OS-026 — Position posts on accepted footings, post bases, or other approved supports at the correct orientation and elevation.
- OS-027 — Brace posts plumb in two directions using temporary bracing sufficient to hold position through subsequent work.
- OS-028 — Verify plumb on adjacent faces and correct any deviation before permanent connection is finalized.
- OS-029 — Align post tops and faces to a consistent elevation and reference line across the full run.
- OS-030 — Inspect and document the completed post installation, including connectors, fasteners, plumb, alignment, and end treatment.
Where This Skill Fits
This project follows directly from the accepted footings and post bases in Project 04 and precedes every framing chapter that depends on a post. Chapter 6's beams bear on the posts set here. Chapter 9's guard posts require the same plumb and load-path standard. Chapter 10's fence posts and Chapter 12's pergola posts use this same sequence adapted to their own spacing and bracing requirements. A post that is out of plumb, misaligned, or under-braced when this project closes carries that error into every later chapter that builds on it.
The habit built here — brace before you trust a post, verify plumb on two adjacent faces rather than one, and hold bracing until a permanent load path exists — is the same habit that governs every post installation in this book, from a single mailbox post to a full deck or shed corner.
Scope and Intended Use
This project covers:
- confirming footings and post bases have passed inspection and reached the approved condition before any post is loaded
- inspecting posts for grade, treatment, straightness, and damage before installation
- positioning, plumbing, and temporarily bracing posts in two directions
- connecting posts to their approved base or footing using the specified connector and fasteners
- establishing and holding alignment across a run of posts
- transferring and cutting a consistent top elevation, treating exposed end grain, and installing caps where specified
- inspecting and documenting the completed post installation before it is released to framing
This project does not authorize the learner to:
- set a post on a footing or post base that has not passed its required inspection or reached its approved cured condition
- substitute generic screws, nails, or an unlisted connector for the specified post-base connector and fastener schedule
- remove temporary bracing before a beam, rail, permanent bracing, or other stabilizing member establishes a complete load path
- proceed to Chapter 6, 9, 10, or 12 framing with a post that has not passed the plumb, alignment, connector, and elevation checks in this project
Any post that cannot be brought to plumb, alignment, or a secure connection within the approved tolerance must be corrected and rechecked before this project is declared complete.
Reference Conventions
Establish these references before any post is set, and do not change them mid-project.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Controlling post | A post, typically at a corner or run end, set and braced first to establish the alignment line for the remaining posts |
| Plumb | Perfectly vertical, checked on two adjacent faces of the post rather than one |
| Alignment line | The reference line, stretched between controlling posts, that every intermediate post face or center is set against |
| Top elevation | The finished height at which post tops are cut or referenced, transferred consistently across the full run |
| Temporary bracing | Bracing installed in two directions to hold a post plumb until a permanent load path is established |
| Load path | The connected sequence of members and connectors that transfers structural load from framing down through the post to its footing |
| End-grain treatment | Field-applied preservative required on any cut end or drilled hole made in treated lumber after milling |
Post Installation Record
Before setting any post, record the approved post specification and reference elevation directly on the site-inspection worksheet:
Post size / grade / treatment: ______ Approved connector schedule: ______ Reference top elevation: ______
Date started: ____________ Builder name: ____________
Prerequisites
- Completed and accepted Project 04 footings and post bases, with inspection records showing the approved cured condition
- Approved post size, grade, treatment, exposure rating, orientation, top elevation, connector schedule, and bracing plan
- Posts on site, inspected for straightness, splits, checks, and correct length before the site walk begins
- Sufficient temporary brace stock, stakes, and fasteners to brace every post in two directions without running short mid-task
- A blank site-inspection worksheet and the completed Project 04 footing records for cross-reference
Common Field Fundamentals
Every post installation in this book, from a single fence post to a full deck or shed post grid, depends on the same sequence taught here: confirm the support is ready, prepare and position the post, brace it plumb in two directions, align it to the run, fasten it permanently, then transfer and cut a consistent top elevation. Learning that sequence on this project means every later post you set starts from a method you already trust.
Support confirmationFootings and post bases verified as accepted and cured before loading
Post preparationGrade, treatment, straightness, and length inspected before setting
Plumb and bracingTwo-direction temporary bracing holds each post plumb through the run
AlignmentControlling posts set first, intermediate posts set to the alignment line
Top elevationConsistent height transferred and cut across the full run
DocumentationConnectors, fasteners, plumb, alignment, and elevation recorded for framing handoff
Support Confirmation Before Any Post Is Loaded
No post is positioned on a footing or post base until Project 04's inspection record confirms the concrete has reached its approved cured condition and the anchor or post base is in its accepted position. Loading a footing before it has cured to the approved condition, or before its inspection is complete, risks movement that is difficult to detect once framing conceals it.
OS-025 – OS-030
Post Installation / Structural Qualification
Set Posts Plumb and Aligned
A. Finished-Project Specification
Deliverable: a complete run of posts installed on accepted footings or post bases, connected with the specified connector and fasteners, braced plumb in two directions, aligned to the required faces or centers, cut to a consistent top elevation, end-treated, capped where specified, and documented for handoff to framing.
B. Assessed Post Installation Schedule (Component Schedule)
| Component | Quantity | Format | Standard | Preparation / Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Support confirmation record | 1 | Worksheet cross-reference | Footings and bases confirmed cured and accepted | Confirms every post is loaded onto an approved support |
| Post inspection record | 1 per post | Worksheet entry | Grade, treatment, straightness, length verified | Confirms material meets the approved specification |
| Plumb and bracing record | 1 per post | Worksheet entry + photos | Plumb verified on two adjacent faces, braced in two directions | Confirms stability before permanent connection |
| Alignment record | 1 per run | Worksheet notes | Controlling posts set first; intermediate posts on line | Confirms consistent face or center alignment across the run |
| Top elevation record | 1 per run | Worksheet notes | Consistent elevation transferred and cut | Confirms uniform post-top height for framing |
| Connector and fastener record | 1 per post | Worksheet entry | Specified connector and fastener schedule confirmed | Confirms an approved structural load path at every post |
C. Material and Resource Takeoff
- Posts: approved size, grade, treatment, and exposure rating sufficient for the full run, with extra length allowed for top cutting.
- Connectors and fasteners: the specified post-base connector and structural fastener schedule for every post, compatible with the post treatment.
- Bracing materials: temporary brace lumber, stakes, and fasteners sufficient to brace every post in two directions simultaneously.
- Finish materials: end-grain preservative for field cuts and holes; approved post caps where specified.
- Documentation: the site-inspection worksheet, Project 04 footing records, and photographs required for the post installation record.
D. Acceptance Standards
| Check | Standard |
|---|---|
| Support confirmation | Every post sits on a footing or post base confirmed accepted and cured before loading |
| Post material | Size, grade, treatment, and exposure rating match the approved specification with no visible damage |
| Plumb | Every post checked plumb on two adjacent faces and corrected before permanent fastening |
| Bracing | Every post braced in two directions and held braced until a permanent load path exists |
| Alignment | Intermediate posts set to the alignment line established by the controlling posts, spacing maintained |
| Connectors and fasteners | Specified connector and fastener schedule installed at every post with no substitutions |
| Top elevation and end treatment | Consistent top elevation cut across the run, exposed end grain treated, caps installed where specified |
E. Preparation — Review and Post Inspection
- Review post size, grade, treatment, exposure rating, support detail, orientation, top elevation, connectors, and bracing plan. Confirm the approved specification before touching any post.
- Confirm footings and post bases have passed inspection and reached the approved condition. Cross-check against the Project 04 records before proceeding.
- Inspect posts for grade, treatment, straightness, splits, checks, damage, and correct length. Set aside any post that does not meet the specification.
- Apply required field-cut preservative to approved cuts and holes. Treat any cut made to bring a post to length before it is set.
- Mark post orientation and finished elevation. Record the reference marks on each post before positioning it.
F. Controlling Post Installation Procedure
- Position the first post in its base, hole, or approved support. Confirm correct orientation before bracing.
- Install temporary braces in two directions. Secure each brace to a stake or fixed reference so the post cannot shift.
- Check plumb on two adjacent faces. Adjust bracing until both faces read plumb.
- Fasten the post to the base using the specified connector and fasteners. Do not substitute generic screws or nails.
- Set the opposite controlling post. Repeat positioning, bracing, plumb-checking, and fastening at the far end of the run.
G. Intermediate Post and Alignment Procedure
- Stretch alignment lines at the required faces or centers. Reference the line from the two accepted controlling posts.
- Install intermediate posts. Position each post on its accepted support along the run.
- Maintain post spacing and face alignment. Check each intermediate post against the stretched line before bracing.
- Adjust braces to hold plumb. Recheck plumb on two adjacent faces at every intermediate post before final fastening.
H. Top Elevation, Cutting, and Finish Procedure
- Transfer top elevations using a laser, level, or stringline. Mark the same reference elevation on every post in the run.
- Mark cut lines. Confirm each mark against the transferred reference before cutting.
- Support posts during cutting. Prevent binding or uncontrolled fall of the cut section.
- Cut post tops square or to the specified shape. Follow the approved detail for the finished top profile.
- Treat exposed end grain. Apply preservative to every freshly cut top before it is exposed to weather.
- Install caps where specified. Confirm cap fit and fastening match the approved detail.
I. Recheck and Closeout Procedure
- Recheck plumb, alignment, spacing, top elevation, base clearance, and connector fasteners. Correct any post that falls outside the approved tolerance.
- Keep bracing until beams, rails, walls, or permanent bracing stabilize the posts. Do not remove temporary bracing before a complete load path exists.
- Document post and connector installation. Record plumb checks, alignment, connector schedule, and top elevation on the worksheet, and label and retain the completed record for reference throughout the rest of this book.
Common Inspection Review
Inspect the completed post installation using the same checks regardless of structure type.
- Support check: confirm every post sits on a footing or post base already accepted and cured.
- Material check: confirm post size, grade, treatment, and exposure rating match the approved specification.
- Plumb check: confirm every post reads plumb on two adjacent faces after final fastening.
- Alignment check: confirm every intermediate post is set to the alignment line with correct spacing.
- Connector check: confirm the specified connector and fastener schedule was installed at every post.
- Elevation and finish check: confirm top elevation is consistent, end grain is treated, and caps are installed where specified.
Complete the Post Installation Worksheet in the Inspection Checklist section below before beginning Chapter 6, 9, 10, or 12 framing.
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Failure Points and Troubleshooting
Cleanup
This project ends with every post braced, connected, and documented — not left loose or unrecorded.
- Leave all temporary bracing in place until beams, rails, walls, or permanent bracing establish a complete load path
- Photograph the completed, plumb, aligned run of posts for the installation record before concealment by later framing
- Store unused brace stock, connectors, and fasteners for reuse in later framing chapters
- Label and file the completed post installation worksheet with the Project 04 footing records
- Return the documented post installation record to the project records for reference throughout the rest of this book
Field Terms
- Controlling Post
- A post set and braced first to establish the alignment line for the remaining posts.
- Plumb
- Perfectly vertical, checked on two adjacent faces.
- Alignment Line
- The reference line every intermediate post face or center is set against.
- Top Elevation
- The finished height at which post tops are cut or referenced.
- Temporary Bracing
- Bracing installed in two directions to hold a post plumb until a permanent load path exists.
- Load Path
- The connected sequence of members and connectors that transfers structural load down through the post to its footing.
- End-Grain Treatment
- Field-applied preservative required on any cut end or drilled hole made in treated lumber.
- Post-Base Connector
- The specified hardware connecting a post to its footing, slab, or other approved support.
- Post Installation Record
- The documented plumb, alignment, connector, and elevation record confirming posts are ready for framing.
- Post Installation Worksheet
- The document recording post material, plumb, alignment, connectors, and elevation findings.
Skill Check
- Why must a post never be loaded onto a footing or post base that has not passed inspection and reached its approved cured condition?
- Why must plumb be checked on two adjacent faces of a post rather than one?
- Why are the two controlling posts of a run set and braced before any intermediate post is positioned?
- Why is a generic screw or nail not an acceptable substitute for a specified post-base connector fastener?
- Why must temporary bracing remain in place until a beam, rail, or permanent bracing establishes a complete load path?
- Why is top elevation transferred from a single reference rather than marked independently at each post?
- What must be done to any field cut or hole made in treated lumber after milling?
- What are three possible reasons a post installation might fail its plumb or alignment check, and how does the learner confirm which one occurred?
- What must the learner do before refastening a post that was found out of plumb?
- Why does this chapter require the post installation record to be documented before framing in Chapter 6, 9, 10, or 12 begins?
Competency Rubric
| Competency | Independent Pass Standard | Not Demonstrated | With Assistance | Independently |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OS-025 | Selects post material matching the approved size, grade, treatment, and exposure rating for its actual location | |||
| OS-026 | Positions posts on accepted supports at the correct orientation and elevation | |||
| OS-027 | Braces posts plumb in two directions with bracing sufficient to hold position through subsequent work | |||
| OS-028 | Verifies plumb on adjacent faces and corrects deviation before permanent connection | |||
| OS-029 | Aligns post tops and faces to a consistent elevation and reference line across the full run | |||
| OS-030 | Inspects and documents the completed post installation, including connectors, fasteners, plumb, alignment, and end treatment |
Mark one column per competency. Only Demonstrated Independently awards the competency; Demonstrated with Assistance authorizes additional supervised practice but does not complete the requirement.
Inspection Checklist — Post Installation Worksheet
| Item | Standard | Recorded Finding | Confirmed (Y/N) | Correction (if any) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Support confirmation | Footings/bases accepted and cured before loading | |||
| Post material | Size, grade, treatment, exposure rating verified | |||
| Plumb | Verified on two adjacent faces at every post | |||
| Bracing | Two-direction bracing installed and held | |||
| Alignment / spacing | Intermediate posts set to alignment line | |||
| Connectors / fasteners | Specified schedule installed, no substitutions | |||
| Top elevation / end treatment | Consistent elevation, end grain treated, caps installed |
Number of posts installed: ____________ Connector schedule used: ____________
Post installation declared complete: ______ (Pass/Fail) Date: ____________ Builder name: ____________
Performance Check
With all seven worksheet items recorded, review the completed installation against the Acceptance Standards table and confirm every post sits on an accepted, cured support, post material matches the approved specification, plumb is verified on two adjacent faces at every post, bracing is holding every post in two directions, intermediate posts are set to the alignment line with correct spacing, the specified connector and fastener schedule is installed with no substitutions, and top elevation is consistent with end grain treated and caps installed where specified. Complete the Post Installation Worksheet and correct any incomplete item before beginning Chapter 6, 9, 10, or 12 framing. If an item is incomplete, identify whether the gap is a support that has not reached its approved condition, an uncorrected plumb or alignment deviation, an unapproved fastener substitution, or a missing elevation or treatment record before rechecking it.
Project Closeout
You have completed the fifth project in the outdoor structures sequence: setting posts plumb and aligned. This project required you to select post material appropriate to the approved specification (OS-025), position posts on accepted supports (OS-026), brace posts plumb in two directions (OS-027), verify plumb on adjacent faces (OS-028), align post tops and faces to a consistent elevation and reference line (OS-029), and inspect and document the completed installation (OS-030).
You now have a complete, plumb, aligned, connected, and documented run of posts, braced and ready to carry the beams, joists, rails, or walls addressed in the chapters that follow. That work carries directly into the next project: building the small ground-level deck frame these posts will support.
Keep bracing in place and store your documented post installation record with the project records. You will reference the connector schedule, plumb checks, and top elevation recorded here throughout the framing chapters of this book.