Choosing the Right Deck Railing for Your Home

When it comes to deck railing, choose the materials that suit your climate and lifestyle. For example, metal might corrode faster in a coastal zone and PVC is prone to mildew growth.

To help with calculating the spacing of longer railing sections, mark the locations for your post centers. Then add blocking to the frame under these locations.

Material

There are many options for materials to use in deck railings. In the end it comes down to what looks best, suits your style, and meets building codes.

Wood is a traditional and timeless material. It can be stained or left natural for a classic look. Wood is naturally durable but requires regular staining to maintain quality and appearance.

Composite and PVC railings are low maintenance and resistant to rot, insect damage, and moisture. They come in a wide variety of colors and styles to suit any home.

Metal rails are typically made from aluminum, galvanized steel or iron. They can be used as the main handrail or as a secondary rail and are very customizable. A more modern and trendy option are cable rails. These are thinner than both wood and metal so you can still see out your deck but are more sturdy. They are also ADA compliant. These can be run horizontally or vertically.

Design

Deck railings come in a variety of styles. The type of railing you choose depends on your aesthetic and the style of your home. For example, turned balusters work well on traditional homes but can also complement a modern design. A contrasting color like black or white can add dramatic contrast.

Composite railings are typically used on full composite decks and are a great choice for homeowners seeking a low maintenance option. Composite rails are weather, insect and rot resistant and look just like wood.

Aluminum is another great low-maintenance choice. It is easy to clean and offers a contemporary style that complements almost any exterior decor. Another popular option is to combine metal and wood. Mixing metal balusters with wooden posts creates a unique, modern-meets-traditional design. For a more unique look, consider adding lighting to your deck railing. It will enhance your deck for evening gatherings and increase safety on stairs and walkways.

Safety

One of the primary functions of deck railing is to act as a safety measure, protecting individuals from accidental falls off elevated surfaces. In addition to being an important part of building codes, local standards set by city and state governments serve as a crucial component in ensuring that your railings are code compliant and safe to use.

Your home’s location and lifestyle also play a role in determining which type of railing is the most suitable for your property. Cable railings, for example, are ideal for scenic landscapes and offer unobstructed views while being durable and low-maintenance. However, they can be more expensive than other types of railings, as they require professional installation.

In addition to being sturdy and aesthetically appealing, your railings should be safe for children and pets. For this reason, the bottom rail on your deck should not be higher than 2 to 4 inches above the deck surface. You should also ensure that the space between balusters is narrow enough to prevent children or pets from slipping through.

Maintenance

Whether they’re made of wood, metal, or composite materials, deck railings require consistent care to remain strong and safe. Routine cleaning and inspections can prevent problems from arising, such as loose components that threaten stability and safety.

Wooden railings need regular sealing or staining to protect against moisture and UV damage. Applying a protective coating every few years can also prolong the lifespan of your deck railing.

For more stubborn stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner such as Simple Green, Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, trichloroethylene, or CLR. Avoid harsh chemicals, such as bleach, acetone, mineral spirits, or caulking solvents, which can damage your railings.

Check your deck railings for loose parts or damage every month by doing a visual inspection. This can help identify and address issues such as rust on metal railings or rot on wooden ones, preventing them from getting worse over time. It’s also important to trim any foliage that could come into contact with the railings and cause damage.



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