Deck railings are both functional and aesthetic. Choosing the right deck railing enhances both beauty and the safety of your outdoor space. There are a wide array of deck railing ideas, like colour, shape, material, etc. for you to choose as your preferences. This deck railing guide will help you determine the key factors to consider when choosing the best railing option.
Types of Deck Railings
Exploring the type of deck railings is the first step in finding the perfect deck railings for your outdoor spaces. From traditional to modern deck railings, the railings have evolved according to the customer preferences. There are several types of deck railings for homeowners to consider,
Best Traditional deck railings
Wood Railing
Mostly the deck railings are made of wood, which offers a classic, natural look to your deck. It brings natural wood colour and texture to your space and it’s easy to work with wood railings and customizable.
Composite Railing
The type of railing, made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, gives the classic look to your outdoor space. There are various designs, colours and infill options of composite deck railings where you can create a personalised look
If you’re weighing your options for decking materials, don’t miss our in-depth look at the pros and cons of composite decking to see if it’s the right fit for your outdoor space.
Vinyl Railing
Vinyl railings are made of pre-formed PVC, which also outs the traditional classic look to your decks. This is a type that can be easily installed and you can reuse the components and existing wood posts .
Best Modern Deck Railings
Metal Railing
They are made from materials like aluminium steel or wrought iron. The metal railings are often used as safety barriers or as decorative elements. This brings minimal aesthetic and adds a modern vibe to any deck.
Cable Railing
Cable railing is a modern alternative to traditional railing, running horizontally in the deck base. These railings give a modern clean look rather than traditional off shape rail.
Glass Railing
The glass railing, pairing with metal, gives the modern look to your deck and creates a luxurious vibe. These guardrails are made of glass panels and frames, designed for safety on especially elevated surfaces. This gives a minimalist and transparent design.
About Deck Railing Materials
When you are to choose the best railing for your deck, considering the material of the rail is important. Because your choice affects not only the overall appearance of your deck, but also its longevity and maintenance needs. As we discussed above, there are several types of deck railings available today and selecting the one that suits your preference is important as it impacts on your budgets.
Wood vs metal deck railings
When you are the homeowner who struggles in between choosing wood or metal railing for your deck, looking for high performance and low maintenance options would save your time and energy. While wood railing offers traditional and natural aesthetics to your deck, and is customizable, wood railing requires high maintenance and wood rotting weakens the wood and creates injuries and hazards. In this case moving for metal railing would benefit you in the long-term.
Why do you choose metal railing over wood railing?
A metal railing for the deck is safer and permanent. When compared to wood, metals are strong and can resist different climate changes, by sustaining larger weight. Unlike wood, metals do not rot, ensuring the durability and resistance of outdoor railings while offering a low-maintenance option.
Moreover, vinyl, composite, cable and glass are strong, durable materials, and offer a sleek and modern look to your outdoor space. Although these materials are low-maintenance and resistant to rust, they tend to be more expensive than wood railings. While they need a higher initial investment, choosing metal or similar materials for your deck rails can offer you long-term benefits.
Safety & Code Compliance
When you choose the right deck railing, especially for elevated decks or homes with children and pets, as a homeowner you should concern the safety of the deck railing system.
When it comes to safety, there are specific safety railing requirements in your area. In general, having a guardrail is a must for the decks that are higher than 30’’ above grade, while for a deck lower than 30’’, you have to make sure the railing still meets its code requirement. These codes and safety standards tend to differ from state to state, in any case, you are allowed to build your rails within requirements.
Choosing the type of deck railing that is best for safety and design helps to balance both functionality and appeal. Before selecting the type of deck railing, make sure you check the local building and regulations regarding deck railings. Typically the deck railing height code is minimum 36 inches and bluster spacing no more than 4 inches.
If you find researching codes overwhelming,seeking professional help can ensure a smoother process.
For a detailed breakdown of essential safety terms and compliance rules, check out this helpful resource on deck code guidelines for guardrails and stairs.
Budget & Maintenance Factors
When selecting the best railing for decks, it is crucial to match it with your budget. Having a cost comparison among different types of deck railings help you to manage your finances through the process. In terms of cost, wood and vinyl are more budget-friendly, while metal, composite, and aluminum may save you long-term.
Considering maintenance factors is essential in selecting the best deck rail for your deck. Metals, composite, vinyl, cable and glass railings often require low maintenance unlike the wood railings. Moreover, natural wood railings might not be the best option when it comes to the safety of your loved ones.
Find The Right Professional and Choose The Best Deck Railing
In this article, we provide you an informed guide to selecting the right railing material for your deck by highlighting the key factors that you should consider. Your selection journey mainly begins with your needs and preferences, followed by budget and safety consideration. To have a safer, and more aesthetically appealing deck, consulting a professional service can help you choose the best railing that matches both your deck and your needs . This is where KD Fencing and Decking Services comes in. If you are struggling with the selection process, let us guide you with our professional expertise.
Reach us at KDFencing.com. Or call at (716) 452-9220 and book your consultation today!