We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
DIY

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How Do I Choose the Best Deck Railing?

By Lori Kilchermann
Updated: May 16, 2024
Views: 8,220
Share

In order to choose the best deck railing for any application, you must decide on the intended purpose of the deck and railing. If it is to be merely ornamental, there are several options such as poly or aluminum materials which are not suitable for a restrictive railing. When the deck railing is to serve a utilitarian purpose, such as preventing a person from falling off of the deck or from gaining access to the deck from a lower level, a strong and reinforced iron style may be the best material choice. When deciding on the best railing for any purpose, the fitment, style and price will aid in determining the best materials for the job.

Some of the earliest deck railings were merely the same wood used to construct the deck itself, typically pine lumber in small dimensions that could be painted or stained to match the deck. As the popularity of the deck has expanded, the urge to create a modern and individualized appearance has also attached itself to the outside deck area. Ornamental railing is replacing the painted wood, and several manufacturers are marketing railing from lightweight ornamental-only railing to fully functional wrought iron and aluminum railing strong enough to discourage an unwanted intruder.

If constructing a deck for a home with small children or pets, a restrictive deck railing with low confinement rails may prove to be the best option for eliminating the hazard of falling over the edge of the deck. If the deck is to be used primarily for entertaining adults, a deck railing that incorporates seating or small table tops may be the best choice. Often, deck railings lead to a lake or boat dock; in this scenario, a lighted railing system could prove to add a certain luxury to the property. Many railing manufacturers can duplicate an existing architectural railing used in other areas of a property to tie the look together.

Some of the better deck and railing manufacturers offer the ability to use photo software to project images of particular railings onto a photo of your property, allowing you to easily see the visual impact of a number of different deck railing styles on your deck. This procedure often gives the best opportunity to choose the best deck railing for any location. By explaining the intended purpose of the railing to the manufacturer, any railing that would fail to meet the needed requirements would be eliminated from the process. This process allows a homeowner to choose only from a list of capable products.

Share
HomeQuestionsAnswered is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
By Raynbow — On May 05, 2014

Many contemporary homes have simple, wooden decks, so wood deck railing is a great choice. This material lasts a long time, and can be painted or strained to fit any exterior color scheme.

By Spotiche5 — On May 05, 2014

If you want a rustic look for your deck, or you have an older home that you want to enhance, you can't go wrong with choosing iron deck railings. This material has a very decorative feel, so it compliments older homes. It is also great for people who don't use their decks for a lot of entertaining, but prefer to accentuate the deck's style and looks.

By Talentryto — On May 04, 2014
If you have a busy lifestyle with pets, kids, and guests spending a lot of time on your deck, PVC or vinyl deck railing are the best options for your deck railing needs. These materials hold up in all kinds of weather and last through a lot of wear and tear.

In addition, if you use your deck a lot for entertaining, grilling out, or relaxing, PVC and vinyl railings are easy to clean and maintain. Simply wipe them off with soap and water and they will be ready for your next activity on your deck.

Share
https://www.homequestionsanswered.com/how-do-i-choose-the-best-deck-railing.htm
Copy this link
HomeQuestionsAnswered, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

HomeQuestionsAnswered, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.