Choosing a railing for your deck can seem like an overwhelming decision. Will you make a choice based on material, cost, appearance, durability, or use? Will it complement the house’s existing architecture, materials, and colors or stand out as a feature itself?
A well-designed railing can significantly enhance both the safety and aesthetic appeal of your backyard deck. With many materials and designs available, selecting the perfect railing can be overwhelming. This guide will walk you through some of the most popular railing options to help you make an informed decision.
Material Options
- Wood: A classic and timeless choice, wooden railings offer a natural look that blends seamlessly with most outdoor environments. Popular wood options include cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated lumber.
- Composite: Composite railings combine the beauty of wood with the durability of plastic. They are often available in a variety of colors and textures and require minimal maintenance.
- Glass: Glass railings offer a modern and sleek aesthetic. They are perfect if you want an uninterrupted view of your surroundings. They consist of tempered glass panels supported by posts or frames, offering both safety and a sleek, transparent look.
- Steel: Steel railings offer a strong and sleek look, often used in industrial or modern designs. They are incredibly durable and can be treated to resist rust and corrosion.
- Cable: Cable railings have become increasingly popular for their sleek, modern look and ability to provide unobstructed views. They consist of horizontal or vertical stainless steel cables stretched between posts, creating a clean, contemporary style.
- Vinyl: Vinyl railings are made from PVC and have gained popularity for their durability and ease of maintenance. They’re often available in white, which creates a clean, classic look.
Safety First
Safety is the first thing people consider when choosing their deck railing. Often they ask, “Will my deck need a railing?” Deck safety codes for the southern Wake County area follow those established by the International Residential Building Code.
A deck must have a guardrail when the difference in distance between the deck and the ground plane is greater than 30 inches. Furthermore, deck stairs require a handrail when there are four or more stair risers. The IRC requires guardrails to be at least 36″ in height measured from the deck surface to the top of the rail. Also, take into consideration factors such as the presence of children or pets.
If your deck does not require a railing for safety, you might choose to surround it with built-in benches or planters instead.
A Frame for the View
But deck railings are more than simply a safety feature. They provide character and visual interest, framing your yard and outdoor living space and providing definition and privacy. Depending upon the view from your deck, you may want a railing that includes a privacy screen, or one that you can look through without obstruction; or you may prefer a railing that draws attention to itself as a custom design element.
Deck Railing Design Components
Most deck railings include several parts to be considered as you visualize your design:
- Posts that provide sturdy framework and support.
- Balusters or spindles are typically the traditional vertical pieces. These provide both protection and design character to the space.
- Handrails that run along the tops of the posts and balusters for gripping or resting.
- Post caps or finials that add a decorative style and a finished look to the posts and may complement your home’s architecture.
All of these deck railing options can make it difficult to make a final decision! Holly Spring Builders are knowledgeable about deck safety and permitting regulations, and experts at custom deck building and design. We’d love to help guide you through the process of building or updating your deck with railings you’ll enjoy.
