What is the best way to remove a steel railing from a concrete stoop?

Hey Mark—

I have a steel railing I need to remove from my front stoop. Problem is that the posts are set in the concrete. My plan is to use my reciprocating saw and cut the posts (which are solid steel about 1 inch thick). My question is…is this the best way to go?

Walt in Ambler, PA

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If you’re very young and expect to live a long time and if you have a lot of money for recip saw blades, them yes. Otherwise, I’d use an angle grinder with a metal cutting wheel—in fact get a bunch. Recip saws cut steel, but because you’re cutting flush with the concrete the stoop will dull the steel of the saw as it cuts. And angle grinder is a better tool—and it’ll allow you to cut the steel flush with the concrete. Be careful though, an angle grinder is not a gentle tool—50,000 rpms mean business. Defintiely wear eye protection. Gloves will also help.

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Mark & Theresa created this honest and personal guide about home improvement to share the tips, techniques, and trends that help you make smart decisions about updating and personalizing your home.

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