8 Types of Deck Railing to Consider for Your Home

While you may be focused on choosing your deck materials and color, don’t forget to pay attention to your railings. The right railings will tie everything together and complement the rest of your property. Since there are so many types of deck railings to choose from, here are all the details to consider before making the final choice.

1. Composite Railing

Composite railing is becoming more popular because it’s low-maintenance, durable, and well-priced. These railings are made with a mix of recycled plastic and wood fibers, making them insect—and rot-resistant. They have a very traditional design and come in standard colors like white, black, and brown. You can mix and match different colors of the top rail and rail posts if you want something that’s eye-catching.

Best for: Homeowners looking for a cost-effective solution

2. Wood Railing

Wood railing is the most traditional option, and is made from cedar, pine, or redwood. Unlike other materials, you’re not limited to specific rail colors, as it’s possible to stain or paint them to any shade of your choosing. They require the most upkeep out of all the rail types, including regular staining or sealing to keep them in tip-top shape. Otherwise, you’ll notice rot from moisture, which means they’ll need to be replaced.

Best for: Traditional homes

3. Vinyl Railing

Vinyl railing is made of PVC with an aluminum frame. Most of the vinyl railing available is white, although there are other shades available for some models in shades of brown. It’s a low-maintenance option with a long lifespan of 20 to 30 years, thanks to its durability. Vinyl railing is resistant to fading and easy to clean with a power washer.

Best for: Those on a budget who want white railings

4. Aluminum Railing

Aluminum railings are often powder-coated for extra durability. They have a long lifespan of 20 years or more and are rust and corrosion-resistant. They can withstand extreme heat and cold, and actually get stronger in cold weather due to their molecular makeup. There are plenty of designs available, from simple and classic to something fancy. The latter is due to the fact that most of the wrought-iron railings that you see today are made of aluminium rather than iron. While there are lots of design options, it doesn’t extend to color, as most aluminum railings are black or white.

Best for: Classic homes

5. Steel Railing

Steel railings have a classic look and are considered one of the most durable options. They’re powder-coated to increase their longevity and can withstand extreme weather, including high winds. One downside is that the rails can rust and corrode, especially if you’re right next to the ocean.

Best for: Areas with extreme weather

6. Cable Railing

Cable railing is a contemporary option that’s sleek and visually appealing. The cables are made of stainless steel, so they’re very sturdy, and depending on your skill level, you may be able to DIY the installation. Check your local building codes before installing to make sure they’re allowed, and also consider whether you have young children or pets. Properly installed cable railings should be safe; however, they do have horizontal gaps—something that isn’t an issue with any other railing type.

Best for: Modern adult-only homes

7. Glass Railing

Glass railing is luxurious and modern, and often made with tempered or laminated glass. These rails are durable, UV-resistant, and work as a wind barrier on windy days. Plus, they allow you to thoroughly enjoy the views without any obstruction, making them an ideal option for coastal or mountain homes. These railings are a good alternative to cable railings if you have children or pets, although they can pose a safety hazard for wild birds that can accidentally fly into clear panels. Another downside is that they require regular cleaning and don’t allow for any privacy. 

Best for: Contemporary homes with private yards

8. Decorative Panel Railing

If the traditional railing is not eye-catching enough for you, check out decorative panels. These are made from vinyl, PVC cellulose, or metal and come in a wide range of designs from geometric, abstract, to scenes inspired by nature. One option is to line your entire deck with decorative panels, or alternate traditional railing with a few decorative panels. You’ll want to carefully check the build quality and materials of these panels before installing them, and consider that you may need more time to clean intricate panels. If you’re unsure about the panels, contact a stair company near you before purchasing to see if they’re compatible with your needs. 

Best for: Uniquely designed homes