Composite vs Aluminum Deck Railing

Aluminum Railing

Aluminum is typically given a protective coating to prevent rusting (typically, powder coating), which makes it fundamentally waterproof. It’s also highly tolerant to drastic changes in temperature. However, performing basic levels of upkeep is still necessary to keep aluminum railing looking its best.

Rails will need to be kept free of debris and occasionally cleaned of environmental contaminants using mild soaps. However, powder coated surfaces can interact with certain cleaning agents. It’s important to follow manufacturers’ guidelines when selecting cleaning products.

Aluminum railing can also be damaged by using abrasive materials, like steel wool pads. Keeping aluminum railings in pristine condition may require power washing twice annually, but regular care can greatly reduce the intervals between washing.

Lastly, it’s important to keep aluminum coated and protected from the elements. Most manufacturers offer touch-up kits that are nearly impossible to see when applied correctly should the powder coated finish get scratched.

Composite Railing

Different types of low-maintenance composite deck railing options will require slightly different levels of maintenance. Overall, the maintenance required for composite railing is quite low. Use gentle soaps to occasionally scrub your railing with a soft bristle brush and thoroughly rinse off any chemicals used.

When comparing composite to wood railings, you’ll find composites have the advantage in most ways. However, it’s worth noting that, just like aluminum railing, the manufacturer is the authority in the best ways to keep their composite products clean.

Lifespan and Durability

Aluminum Railing

The average lifespan of aluminum railing is difficult to gauge. Most manufacturers offer at least a 20-year warranty, but it’s not uncommon to find lifetime warranties for aluminum railing because the material is exceptionally resilient. However, it’s important to read the fine print of a given product’s lifetime warranty because it may include certain caveats and conditions that may void the warranty.

Aluminum or composite deck railing are both exceptionally well suited to enduring the elements, but aluminum is a physically harder material. As a result, aluminum railing often offers better protection against scratches and dents.

Composite Railing

The average lifespan of composite railing is around 20-25 years, but the outcome heavily depends on the quality of the composite and how well it’s maintained. High-quality composites that are well-maintained can last for at least 25 years -- or potentially more, which is why it’s not uncommon to see composite railing carry a 25-year performance warranty.

While composite doesn’t have the hardness of metal, composite railing vs aluminum railing is a fairly even matchup when it comes to weatherproofing. Composite can be protected against mold, mildew, stains, and essentially every other vulnerability of wood.

Color Options

Aluminum Railing

Aluminum railing is typically available in fewer color options than composite. Most aluminum railing is offered in black, white, and a shade of brown. For example, Trex Signature® Railing provides three main railing color options. You can discover more aluminum railing color options here. However, despite the lack of color options, most aluminum railing manufacturers offer several designs that can set your project apart.

Composite Railing

You can find a fairly wide range of color options for composite railing. For instance, Trex Transcend® Railing provides nearly twice as many options as the aluminum alternative. This extended range of colors usually allows composites to provide a better compliment to their surroundings. You can discover more composite railing color options here. On the other hand, most composite product lines offer fewer infill options compared to aluminum. It really boils down to what suits your tastes, project needs, and budget. Both products are excellent premium alternatives to wood that will provide years of low-maintenance enjoyment.

Learn everything you need to know about deck railing here.