Any of you built deck rails from iron?

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I'm thinking of using some 1/2" x 4" straps for uprights to support some benches on a new deck I'm building.  Since I'll be using composites, I'll run a flat strap across the front to be able to screw the board down.The rough sketch below is what I'm thinking.  Any comments or thoughts?  THKS.Ron Attached Images
Reply:You might want to put a brace from the back out towards the front of the seat on the underside of the seat . Other than that it oughta work.
Reply:Thanks John.I'd planned to do that, just got in a hurry with my sketch...........Ron
Reply:The diagram does not look very strong.  I would recamend 4 inch channel iron for starters.  you need some kind of support on the edge of the seat below thighs.   One fat person, and the thing is bent.
Reply:As drawn the seat looks like one big leaver arm to me --- Another point:What are your plans in terms of a finish?  If not at least powder coated, steel will rust over time.  If the final product will be in a coastal location, that will happen within a year.I have a cabin on the coast and have started building deck railing using AL. Just a couple of thoughts.
Reply:Thks JDC,I plan to powder coat it--even though I'm a long way from either ocean.Also, since I got in a hurry, I left of the gusset under the seat support............Everyone is catching my goof!THKS.ron
Reply:I made some deck railing but without the seats.  I used rebar and bolted it into 4X4 posts.  The fisinsh was a metal primer and an oil paint finish all with a brush.  The metal was preped with a wire brush and grinder then wiped with MEK or acetone.  The finish has held up well for the past 5-6 years.Are you planning on seating all around your deck?  I like the idea of seating, let us know what you decide and how it turns out. Attached Images
Reply:thanks for that idea Royal Fe, I'm working on a deck with my neighbor and he is really open to ideas on the railingsStangnetShop Full Of Stuff. Joey