Deck Railing Designs
SaveOver the last ten years, the deck industry has developed a variety of attractive rail systems. Because your deck's rails will be one of the most visible features of your new deck, it is important to choose a rail that complements your decking material and the style and color scheme of your house. Consumers have many choices of colors, styles and accessories to provide greater flexibility in design. Many railing systems are built from composite or metal, both of which offer the advantage of low maintenance. Glass railings and cable rails are attractive because they preserve views. Deck rails can vary in price from about $15 per linear foot for a standard pressure-treated wood rail to over $125 dollars per linear foot for a manufactured glass railing system.
Because railings are such an important design feature for any deck, we recommend spending some time researching your options and allowing some room in your budget for a railing that suits your taste. Most railing systems are sold as kits and are fairly easy to install. You can learn more about how each system is installed or find local suppliers who can assist you in pricing, planning and ordering your materials by clicking on the links below.
SaveMake your deck unique by installing designer aluminum deck railing balusters. These rail systems are easy to install, are affordable and look beautiful. Most of the back-breaking labor involved in staining a wood deck is from painting all the surfaces of the rail balusters. Unlike wood, aluminum balusters don't need to be stained or painted.
SaveInstall baroque-style balusters to provide a classical European look to your deck for a fraction of the price. These balusters are available in white, bronze and black for 36" and 42" high guardrails.
SaveUsing aluminum deck railing balusters is a great way to add some style to your deck. Choose from a variety of colors and styles, such as classic, baroque, arc, estate and traditional. These railing systems are a breeze to install, require virtually no maintenance and will make your deck stand out from your neighbors. A beautiful railing can make a huge difference on any deck project.
Installing powder-coated aluminum or steel balusters is a cost-effective way to add some style to your deck. These pickets and balusters are usually sold in boxes of ten and can be purchased with easy-to-install mounting hardware. There are a variety of color options and styles, including round, square, flat and baroque. Metal balusters or pickets are commonly installed on wood railings, but can also be used with some low-maintenance railings.
SaveOpen up your view. Use glass deck railing panels to showcase your yard and landscaping with three unique shades of shatterproof glass (clear, bronze and smoke) for 36" and 42" rails.
Glass and cable railing systems are a great choice for a deck with a view. Both systems are practical, sleek and modern-looking. Glass railings are usually installed within an aluminum rail frame. The tempered glass material is shatter-resistant and has a polished edge for safety. Glass is often available in clear, gray and bronze tints. Stainless steel cable rails are easy-to-install and provide an industrial aesthetic to your deck. With cable rails, you can preserve views and breezes on hot summer afternoons.
Low-maintenance materials are becoming more popular than ever. Composite railing systems are manufactured to match the appearance of each companies' lines of composite and vinyl decking materials. These systems are usually sold in easy-to-install 6' and 8' kits that are installed between 4x4 rail posts that are covered with post sleeves. Aluminum railing systems are available in a variety of colors and styles. These systems are competitively priced, cool to the touch and easy to install.
Decking Patterns
Step into the world of deck design and push the limits of your imagination with our collection of deck patterns and ideas. From classic single-width and diagonal layouts to intricate herringbone and chevron designs, we illustrate the wide range of patterns that will unlock your creativity.
Small Deck Ideas
With the right setup and décor, you can transform a small deck into a perfect outdoor oasis. Get inspired with these design ideas for small decks at Decks.com.
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IRC Code Requirements For Decks
Residential properties have certain code requirements that must be met before building a deck known as the IRC. Learn more about IRC building codes for decks at Decks.com!
Residential PSF Deck Requirements
For a residential deck, the code requires it be designed to support a minimum 40-psf live load. Learn more about how much to put on a deck psf at Decks.com.
IBC Requirements For Decks
The International Building Code (IBC) regulates deck additions attached to commercial buildings. Learn how IBC requirements may affect your project at Decks.com.
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
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Permits for Building a Deck: Why You Need One and How to Get It
Many homeowners are surprised when they are told they need to get a permit in order to build a deck. It may seem like a hassle, but it’s well worth the small investment of time and money to ensure your deck is built to code standards and in compliance with local regulations
Questions To Ask Your Deck Contractor
The quest to find the right contractor to complete your decking project can feel overwhelming and stressful. Learn more about what questions you should ask before hiring a contractor on decks.com
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights