Deck Railings

A well chosen deck railing can enhance the appearance of your deck in addition to preventing falls and other accidents. While many homeowners are familiar with standard wood railings, other types of railings may be better suited for your deck.

Deck railings are available in a wide variety of materials to complement the enormous range of deck designs offered. It is important to choose a railing that will be able to withstand the climate in your area as well as meet your aesthetic requirements.

Wood is the most popular type of railing material. Inexpensive and readily available, railings can range from modern to ornate styles, and wood is a favorite for do-it-yourself enthusiasts. You can also paint or stain a wood railing to perfectly match your existing deck stain or paint.

Unfortunately, wood railings require regular upkeep to prevent rot and other damage. Plan on painting or sealing a wood railing every three to five years. You should also check each year for rot and replace any areas that may be affected. This is particularly important in wet climates, where the lifespan of a wood railing can be greatly reduced.

Ranging from ornate cast iron panels to simple wrought iron pieces, metal railings can be an excellent choice for many types of decks. While some types of metal railing may require regular painting and upkeep, other types will only need to be cleaned occasionally. If you live near the beach, keep in mind any reactions your metal railings might have with the sand and plan your maintenance accordingly.

Composite railings are popular with homeowners who want the appearance of wood without the maintenance concerns. Many home improvement centers sell composite railing kits that can be quickly assembled and installed by the amateur. Once the composite railing is in place it does not have to be painted or monitored for rot. Instead, a yearly pressure washing should keep the railing in excellent shape.

Composite railings are specially treated to resist fading, but cannot be repainted. This is particularly problematic if you repaint your house or deck a different color. For this reason it is best to choose a neutral color for your railing. You should also be aware that composite deck railings are available in limited colors.

Glass deck railings can be a stunning addition to a modern or contemporary home. Often used in conjunction with a metal frame, glass railings will require professional installation. Most glass railings are available in a few standard sizes. If your deck falls outside of these parameters you may have to order custom glass panels.

Glass railings should be cleaned regularly to retain their sleek appearance. If you live near a beach, sand may etch the glass over time. It is also important to keep furniture and other items that may scratch the glass away from the railing.

Metal cables are inexpensive and require little maintenance once installed. There are a wide variety of cable styles and configurations that can be used with both metal and glass posts. A professional installation is recommended to tighten and test the cable configurations.

Even if you already know how to build a deck, the code restrictions and local laws that are applicable to only the deck railing may surprise you. It is important to check with your local government before installing any type of railing. You may be required to obtain a permit or get city approval for your plans.

Most building codes applicable to deck railings are intended to prevent falls or injuries. Not only are there height requirements, but there are also baluster spacing restrictions. These restrictions are intended to prevent a small child from getting his head stuck in between two balusters.

While some deck railings may last longer than others, it is important to conduct regular checks of your entire deck. Rot, loose fasteners, and other hazards may not be readily apparent, but could be dangerous. Consider hiring a professional to do a thorough check of your railing and deck every few years. A licensed inspector should be able to offer tips to conduct your own examination as well as point out any potential problems.

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