5 Types of Deck Railings
Provide safety and stability without blocking your view.
When building or remodeling your backyard deck, the railing is the finishing touch that can add character and breathe new life. While they aren’t always required, for safety reasons, railings are usually the most important part of a deck. On the other hand, they can also be an obstruction when taking in a beautiful view. To help you get some ideas for your deck, here are five railing types that offer style, function and safety.
Wood
The standard backyard deck railing has posts, pickets, and a top and bottom rail made of wood. This is a popular choice among do-it-yourself homeowners and new builders because the materials can be very inexpensive and construction is easy. Custom wood railings made by professional craftsman are also commonly used to complement high-quality decking work. You can have balusters and post caps carved into decorative shapes that complement the style of your home. However, wooden deck railings are likely to block your view more than any other. They also require a good deal of maintenance, but with adequate care, wood railings can last for 10 years or more.
Metal
Installing pickets made of iron, steel or powder coated aluminum is an inexpensive way to add some style to your deck. They are frequently combined with a wood railing, but can certainly be installed on a matching metal frame. Metal balusters come in a variety of colors and styles, including square, round, and baroque, and usually come in boxes of 10 at home improvement stores. This type of deck railing is both strong and stylish, easier to maintain, and won’t break the bank for most homeowners.
Glass
Pickets or balustrades can be replaced with glass panels, making this type of railing a nice choice for a deck with a view. Typically installed with an aluminum post and rail frame, the minimal look of glass adds a sleek and modern appeal. Your glass panels can have decorative etchings or a color tint, but most importantly, they must be tempered with polished edges for safety. his type of railing will be more costly than others, and should only be installed by a professional. Glass railings will require a bit more maintenance to keep them looking clean and new, especially in salty, ocean environments. But, they can easily last more than a decade.
Cable
A cable railing is also an excellent choice if you want to enjoy your scenic vista, and with an open design, you’ll also feel the breeze. This type of railing is unique because of the cable’s horizontal arrangement. Combined with either a wood or metal frame, the look easily compliments both a modern and traditional style. Made with Marine Grade stainless steel wire, the cable infill is practically maintenance free and strong enough to withstand harshest weather. Cable railing suppliers offer prefabricated kits for easy installation as well as custom designs for unique applications. The cost of a cable railing can be comparable to that of a glass or metal railing, but has the potential to last much longer.
Composite
Composite railing systems are low maintenance, cost effective and becoming much more popular. Decking companies often manufacture railings that match the look of their composite decks, coming prefabricated as a single piece that easily locks into place. They are also frequently sold as kits, available in a variety of size, style, and color options. Although composite railings are said to be incredibly durable, color fastness can be an issue, and they tend not to last as long as promised. They will also stand in the way of you taking in the scenery.
