3 Deck Railing Options

Wooden railings are generally the most commonlycable strand. Cable installation is a simple process
used type of railing system utilized in deck design.that is completed quickly. Cable systems in
However, there are many other deck railingstainless steel involve material costs that are
options.more expensive than they would be for wood.
Some systems use wood posts and rails butManufactured Railing Systems:
replace the balustrade with cables, pipes or glassPremanufactured railing systems are available in
panels. Alternative systems use metal or plasticcomposites, plastics and metals. They are quite a
materials or combinations of the 2 to replace thebit more expensive than wood systems. Their
wooden components.advantage is that they are mainly maintenance
Although these optional railing systems may befree. Some imitate wood while others create
more expensive in terms of the cost ofstyles that would be difficult to reproduce in
materials, they may:wood. Components come in precut pieces and are
1. be installed more quickly than conventionalready to assemble.
types1. PVC Railings - are smooth and maintenance
2. be less intrusive visually because of the naturefree. They can look like wood from a distance.
of their designThey do need internal wood or metal
3. be able to match a particular style that wouldreinformcement. Posts can vary from stand
be difficult to reproduce in woodalones to sleeves that cover 4x4 pressure
4. radically decrease the amount of maintenancetreated lumber. Painted, galvanized or aluminum
requiredpipe or square tubing with a mounting flange are 2
5. completely eliminate the need for maintnenanceother types. PVC balusters come in a huge
Glass Panel Railing Systems:variety of shapes and provide a great deal of
Tempered glass panels may be used to createchoice to a homeowner.
virtually invisible railings that can also act as2. Metal Railings - are available that can be
windscreens. These panels are inexpensive andmounted tp regular or factory made posts. They
widely available. The actual glass is temperedare generally made from aluminum and come with
which makes it strong but uncuttable. As a resulta durable factory baked on finish. Their higher
the spacing between vertical posts must be donestrength capablilities enables them to have smaller
with the glass panel size in mind. The panels maysizes which interfere less with spectacular views
be held in place in 1 of 2 ways. In the first, afrom a deck.
series of grooves cut into the posts as well as3. Resin Composite Railings - contain recycled
the top and bottom rails fix the glass panel inmaterials and imitate wood extremely well. They
place. In the second, the panels are fixed in placeare generally produced by manufacturers of
by wooden stops applied to both sides around thecomposite decking. This material does not shrink
perimeter of each glass panel. This methodor warp and needs little maintenance. Composite
permits panels to be removed easily forcomponents are readily available specifically for
replacement or repair.railings and can be color coated if desired.
Cable Railing Systems:With so many deck railing options available it is
This system uses 1/8 inch diameter stainless steelalways a wise decision to check with the local
cables with end fittings. It is used for itsbuilding department for regulations governing railing
unobtrusive presence rather than for its looks.types and approved materials. This will ensure
Installation of pre-drilled wooden or metal posts isthat the railing system selected will comply with
the first step. The cables are then threadedcodes and enhance the look of the deck at the
through the holes in the posts and made taughtsame time.
by tightening a nut on a threaded section of each