Deck Railing: Know Your Options

In years past, the only choice for deck railings was lumber – regardless of whether the deck location was suitable for natural wood. Times and technology and tastes, however, have changed. Homeowners now have more options for materials and style – and the ability to mix and match both. The type of deck you plan to build and where you live will influence your choice of deck railing, but you have options.

Let’s look at the different types of deck railings, and the pros and cons of each.

Traditional Wood

Wood is a simple, affordable and beautiful solution for deck railing – especially if you’re building a wood deck. Many homeowners prefer uniformity in the look of their decks, and with wood, you can match the exact wood type and stain throughout. Wood also gives you the option to mix and match species, creating a completely unique look.

Wood is also entirely customizable. With the right tools and the right plan, you can design it to match your vision. Of course, wood does require upkeep and maintenance. To keep your wood deck railing looking fresh and new, you’ll likely have to sand and/or stain them annually.

PROS:

• Affordable
• Natural look and feel
• Customizable
• Flexibility
• More control over look and feel

CONS

• Ongoing maintenance and upkeep
• Does not last as long as other options
• Requires a skilled installer
• Prone to bending and twisting

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Plastic

The word “plastic” can cause people to turn up their noses and sometimes conjures thoughts of cheap, breakable materials. That’s not really true with plastic deck railing, however. Plastic – sometimes called “composite” – deck railings are cost-effective, easy to install and last forever. Though plastic isn’t very customizable, most homeowners will happily trade design flexibility for a material that requires zero maintenance. While composite deck railings might look out of place on the traditional wood deck, they work great with composite Trex decking. Plastic deck railings are particularly useful for homes near the ocean, where salt water air decays wood at a much faster rate.

PROS

• Simple to install
• Usually comes with a warranty
• Lasts a very long time
• ZERO maintenance or upkeep
• Cost-effective over the long-term

CONS

• Lack of variety
• Lack of choice in style
• Larger upfront investment

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Aluminum

Aluminum is making a big comeback for outdoor projects lately, including aluminum deck railings. It’s not only one of the most durable and long-lasting materials available, it has a modern and sleek look that fits contemporary style sensibilities as well. Aluminum deck railing is lightweight but strong, affordable, simple to install and maintenance free. Like plastic, it’s great for homes near the ocean as aluminum does not rust or decay in close proximity to salt water. And like plastic, there’s not much room for customization, or matching, as most aluminum comes pre-coated and painted.

PROS

• Super long-lasting/low maintenance
• Great for coastal homes
• Very affordable
• Clean, modern look
• Simple to install

CONS

• Lack of variety
• Lack of customization
• Few design options

Cable

The last of the major deck railing options on our list, cable, is perhaps the most popular over the past few years. Cable railing combines stainless steel construction with superior design and construction flexibility to create the ultimate, modern deck rail – particularly for homes with a view. The thin cables allow for a much larger viewing area from your deck, whether you want to look into the canyon, at the ocean, or just into your friendly neighbor’s yard.

Cable railing can be used with any type of wood post, so you can utilize wood, aluminum or even composite to complete your project. It’s not difficult to install, but it does take a little bit of know-how – especially if you’re planning a unique design. Cable railing is also the most expensive option on our list, but for a home with a view, it’s a must-have.

PROS

• Perfect for homes with a view
• Durable stainless steel
• Modern look
• Highly customizable

CONS

• Most expensive options
• Can be difficult to install correctly
• Requires research for DIY installers

Building a deck and not sure what type of railings to use? Contact our deck railing specialists or stop by a J&W Lumber showroom today and we’ll get you up to speed on your options!

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