5 Deck Railing Materials to Inspire You

“The details are not the details. They make the design.”
– Charles Eames, American designer, architect, and filmmaker

The design of your deck railing may seem like a minor detail but we both know that it can make the difference between a so-so outdoor deck area and an inviting place where friends and family will want to linger and spend time with one another.

If you’re looking to renovate your deck with new railings, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll talk about five different deck railing materials and how they impact the look and feel of your deck. For further inspiration, we’ll also list the importance of deck railings.

5 Deck Railing Materials To Consider

1. Cable Railings

Cable railings are sleek and modern options. They consist of stainless steel cables that are strung between posts. Because of how they’re constructed, these deck railing materials allow you to enjoy the views outside your deck area by employing discreet and minimal materials.

2. Glass Railings

If you want a completely unobstructed view, glass railings are a perfect choice. Without cables or other opaque materials to stand in your way, you can have an enclosure that will let your gorgeous outdoor landscapes take centerstage.

Glass railings are made with tempered glass panels that are mounted on rails with clamps or brackets.

3. Wood Railings

Wood railings are a classic choice for decks. They can be made from a variety of wood, including cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated lumber. Wood railings can be stained or painted to match your home’s exterior.

For rustic homes and natural aesthetics, wood railings give you that earthy and homey feel.

4. Composite Railings

Composite railings are made from a combination of wood and plastic fibers. They offer the natural look of wood and the easy maintenance of plastic. Unlike natural materials, composites don’t warp, rot, or crack. They’ll look good for years to come and won’t require repainting or staining.

This type of railing offers you a wide variety of color and design options so you can get as creative and avant-garde as you want.

5. Metal Railings

Metal railings are durable and low-maintenance. They can be made from aluminum, wrought iron, or stainless steel. They’re also easier to install compared to composite and wood.

Depending on the design, they can help you achieve a classic or industrial look.
These five are the most common deck railing design materials. Each of these can be installed on decks made of wood, composite, and metal.

Why You Should Seriously Consider Your Deck Railing Design

When it comes to the outdoor aesthetic of your home, deck railings play an important role. Since decks are extensions of your home’s outdoor area, it’s one of the first things that neighbors and guests notice when they walk up to it.

Let’s take a closer look at why deck railing designs need your serious consideration:

• Deck railings make it safer to navigate the area, especially if your deck is elevated from the ground.
• They can be used to add character and charm to an outdoor space by creating a decorative border around the deck or porch area that enhances the architectural style and color scheme of your home’s exterior design. 
• From a functional perspective, they can provide additional privacy for your home.
• You can design your deck to provide shade for your outdoor region. For example, you can opt for lattice-style designs that are more solid so you can have more protection from the sun’s rays.
• Deck railings provide a visual and physical barrier between different levels of your home. It can section off areas where there may be changes in elevation or other hazards that people need to be aware of.
• Aesthetically pleasing deck railings are important when it comes to increasing property value. If you plan on selling your home in the future, potential buyers will see your well-designed deck right away when they arrive or drive by your property.
• Last but certainly not least, a carefully designed deck gives you an opportunity to entertain guests in a comfortable outdoor space while enjoying some fresh air. Ensuring that your deck railings match the aesthetics of your home and that they’re properly installed makes the experience safer and the ambiance better. Plus, if you add a seating area, you can use it to host a barbeque, brunch, or simply have intimate conversations with close friends.

So, when choosing your deck railing materials, never underestimate the importance of choosing the right deck railing materials. This means getting the design, color, and style right!

Need Help With Your Deck? C&L Ward Is Here To Help

For all your decking needs, head to C&L Ward. Our selection of decking materials, supplies, and services is unbeatable and will provide you with everything you need to build the perfect outdoor space.

From decking installation, deck boards, deck railing, deck lighting, new deck construction, and more, we can help you own the perfect deck railing design that will increase your home’s value and make it a joy to have. We even offer composite deck railings that provide the optimum combination of durability, easy maintenance, and beauty.

Visit our website or call 1-800-GO-CLWARD. Let’s get to work on your deck!