Types of Deck Railings
Wood Deck Railing
Wooden deck railings offer a classic and highly customizable option. They come in a variety of styles, including pressure-treated lumber, cedar, mahogany, and redwood, among others. You can select from various wood species, each with its own unique color, hardness, and special characteristics. For instance, cedar is known for its durability and natural pest resistance. Despite being cost-effective, pressure-treated lumber is the most durable option and can withstand the elements while being easy to paint, stain, and refinish.
Wood is a versatile and budget-friendly railing material, but due to its porous nature, it demands regular maintenance to keep it in good condition. This is especially crucial for more intricate designs, as additional curves or crevices can make maintenance more challenging. Cleaning, staining, and painting are typically required to maintain the structural integrity of a wood railing.
Composite Deck Railing
Unsurprisingly, composite material is one of the most commonly used railing systems for a composite deck. These railings are highly weather-resistant and low-maintenance, as they are made from a combination of wood particles and plastic. Due to their water-repellent properties and ability to withstand constant exposure to the elements,
composite rails require minimal maintenance. They convincingly imitate the look of wood while being more weather-resistant.
Despite these benefits, composite railings have a few drawbacks. When damaged, a small section of composite material cannot be repaired and must be entirely replaced, unlike metal and wood railings which can be patched up. Additionally, color options for composite deck railing are limited. While composite rails are similar in cost to aluminum rails, they are less structurally durable.
Metal Deck Railing
Aluminum or metal rails are another popular choice. They are typically made of aluminum, galvanized steel, or iron. Metal rails offer high customizability and can be molded into various shapes due to the malleability of metal. Their increased durability allows for thinner balusters than wood, enhancing visibility beyond and behind the deck railing.
Steel railings are rarely used due to their susceptibility to rust. If you opt for steel, remember that preventing rust will require regular maintenance to keep your rails in good condition.
Aluminum, on the other hand, is entirely rust-resistant, making it an excellent choice for deck railings. It can withstand harsh weather conditions and doesn't demand much maintenance to remain in good condition. It's a popular choice for metal railings in various finishes.
Wrought iron is an excellent choice for Victorian homes due to its stately and regal appearance. The ornate designs on the balusters are not only eye-catching but also offer ample visibility of the surrounding landscape. The main drawback of wrought iron is its susceptibility to rust. It's even more prone to rust than steel, and preventing rust with constant exposure to the elements can be nearly impossible.
Cable Railing
Cable railing, a newer and trendy option, provides the best view from your deck. These railings have a sleek, modern appearance that complements more contemporary homes. Cables create a strong barrier that doesn't obstruct the view.
Thinner cables take up much less space than wood and metal, making them an excellent choice if you want your deck to appear as open as possible. While cable railing is significantly more expensive than other options, it's worth the extra cost if you want to make the most of your surrounding landscape.
Choosing the Right Railing for Your Home
When choosing a deck railing, consider factors such as safety, durability, maintenance, and aesthetics. To make an informed decision, here are some deck railing ideas to keep in mind:
Safety: Ensure that your railing meets safety standards and is robust enough to withstand heavy use.
Durability: Consider the weather in your area and select a material that can withstand extreme temperatures.
Maintenance: Different materials require varying levels of maintenance, so consider your available time and resources before making a choice.
Aesthetics: Choose a railing that complements the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space.
Introducing Trex Railing Options
