Few homeowners realize that when planning the design and construction of a deck and patio, the deck railing is just as important as the deck itself. Railings provide the finishing touch and overall style to the basic deck deck. Most homeowners and builders will use the same material for their railings as their deck material, but it’s not impossible to go with a different material for your railings. When choosing, not only aesthetics must be taken into account, but also long-term maintenance.
There are a variety of materials you can use when installing deck railings (and note that this refers to the entire unit that sits as a cushion on the edge of the deck to prevent your friends and family from falling in from the end, including the posts, panels, and handrails along the length of the deck):
Typical Deck Railings
The most common type of railing can be seen on homes across the US in every state and county. They consist of 2×2 beveled wood stakes that have been attached to a 2×6 trim (at the top) and to the deck edge joist (which is the outside band of wood on the deck frame). This is an inexpensive and simple option that most deck and patio builders will do if no other custom option is requested.
Custom Deck Railings
Thanks to the skill and creativity of deck and patio builders, you can get almost any size and shape of lumber used to build your deck railings. Sometimes it may require the keen design eye of a professional creative hobbyist (as well as an engineer’s chin rub and approving nod), but creativity is the limit when it comes to custom deck railing for your outdoor space.
Premade Vinyl Deck Railings
Often with aluminum inserts for added strength, these railings are becoming more popular with the DIY crowds, as the metal deck is attached without the need for welding. Holes can be drilled in the 2x4s in the vertical and pressed together. Once a cap rail is in place, the project is complete. These pre-made deck railings are available at most lumberyards. The benefit of these systems is that you can get glass or plexiglass inserts to screw into deck and patio railings. If your deck faces the pool area, this can be a great way to keep your pool view.
Composite Deck Railings
There are several composite deck railing options and most have some form of metal reinforcement in newer designs. Nearly all composite decking is created to look like wood so homeowners can get that beautiful polished wood shine at a fraction of the cost. Most of the designs you will find will be modern or colonial in style without involving too much of the creative arts, mainly because most homeowners go for the simple when building on a budget.
If you are looking for a unique deck and patio design, opt to use real wood for your deck railings. This will give you the most variety and versatility in a custom deck design with your builder. Similarly, wood will provide long-lasting durability that is difficult to obtain with cheaper composite materials.