Do you have a PVC deck that needs a refresh? An excellent way to revamp your deck design is with a new railing installation. With the vast array of railing materials and designs available today, you can turn your deck from drab to downright fabulous! Let us walk you through our comprehensive guide so you can implement this insider information in your deck design revamp!
Choosing the Right Railing Design
It goes without saying, but not every railing looks good on every deck. Choosing the proper railings for your deck design will heighten your home’s aesthetic, enhancing your happiness with the design as well as long-term curb appeal. The main decision you will need to make for your design is the infill option; here are the most common options:
- Horizontal Cables: Cables that run horizontally between railings, offering a modern look that doesn’t obstruct views.
- Vertical Cables: Cables that run vertically between the railings, providing a contemporary aesthetic that prevents little climbers.
- Horizontal Posts: Posts that stretch horizontally between railings, creating a sturdy and traditional appearance.
- Vertical Posts: Posts installed vertically, offering a fence-like appearance that suits many different styles.
- Posts & Cables: A combination of posts (either vertical or horizontal) with cables strung between them to create a traditional style with a minimalist accent.
- Ornamental Inserts Between Posts: Decorative pieces fitted between posts, adding a personal artistic element.
- Glass Balusters: Narrow, vertical glass pieces that provide an unobstructed view and a modern style.
- Glass Panels: Large glass sheets placed between posts that maximize visibility for a clean, open look.
Choosing the right infill option will depend heavily on your existing home aesthetics and your goals for your railing. For example, if you have a spectacular view from your deck, we recommend either cable or glass infill so that it doesn’t dampen your view!
Material Considerations for Deck Railings
Once you have chosen your design, it is time to select your materials and colors. Here is a quick breakdown of the most common options you can select for your posts, railings, and infill.
Steel offers hardy strength and durability, making it ideal for high-wear environments. However, if not properly treated, it can be prone to rust.
Aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant. It is easier to handle and install than steel. It is particularly suitable for coastal areas where corrosion is a concern.
Wood provides a classic, natural look. However, it requires regular maintenance, such as staining and sealing, to prevent decay and damage.
Composite is made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic. Composite materials provide the look of real wood but with increased durability and less maintenance.
Glass is only offered as an infill option. For infill, it can provide an unobstructed view past the railing.
These material choices provide homeowners like you with various options to enhance your home’s aesthetics and functionality. However, if you aren’t sure which would best suit your home needs, speaking with a professional will provide you with expert insight into your unique requirements.
Adding Finishing Touches
A railing isn’t truly finished until it has been customized. Fortunately, there are three easy ways to make your railing your own.
#1: Accent Rails
Accent rails are the rails that make up the topmost part of your railing. There is a wide range of design options, from sleek to ornate, to choose from. You can either have your rail match/complement or contrast your overall deck design.
#2: Handrails
Handrails are another element that can make your deck truly stand out. From modern minimalist designs to a classic wood-look finish, you can pick from an extensive array of styles and colors. We love for our handrails to add a complementing element to decks by utilizing a different but compatible color from the other components of the deck to make it stand out.
#3: Caps
Caps are the decorative elements that sit like a hat on top of each post. Caps are available in multiple styles and colors, from flat and unobtrusive to decorative and eye-catching. We always recommend our customers to get LED lighted caps, as they provide ambient lighting for your deck area that not only improves visibility but aids in safety.
Installation Tips for Your Railing Installation
If you have decided to DIY your railing installation, here are a few tips to ensure a safe and beautiful final result.
1. Check Local Regulations
First, you will want to check with your local building codes and regulations to ensure your deck meets safety standards. Be sure to review and implement all of these elements. Otherwise, your deck may not be to code, which could be a serious safety risk and a significant detriment if you decide to sell later.
2. Prepare Properly
Next, you will want to prepare for your build by thoroughly measuring your deck and planning the layout of the railings to avoid any miscalculations during installation. To do this, you must first ensure you have a stable and secure base where the railings will be mounted; this may involve reinforcing the deck structure if necessary. Then, you will want to carefully mark where each post will be installed to maintain consistent spacing and alignment. Ensuring even spacing and alignment is crucial for both the appearance and structural integrity of the railings.
3. Reinforce the Railing
As you are performing your railing installation, you will want to ensure its safety by reinforcing the stability of the structure. This can include adding additional supports or brackets where your deck railing may see high use or environmental damage, as well as being sure to double-check that all connections are tight and secure.
4. Prepare for Maintenance
Understanding the requirements for maintenance and care of your railing installation is as important as the installation itself. Read our comprehensive blog to learn more about Post-Installation Care for Decks and Railings.
5. Hire Professional Railing Installation
At the end of the day, the best way to ensure your deck railing is safe, functional, and up to code is to hire a professional team for your railing installation. While some savvy homeowners can certainly manage this on their own, the best way to secure peace of mind is to have it done by experts.
Deck Design and Railing Installation with Simpson Decks
When determining a railing installation for your deck, you should never compromise. By working with us at Simpson Decks, you can rest assured that our deck railing will provide your design with an extra layer of protection, an increase in your home value, and a beautiful aesthetic that highlights the beauty of your home.
Are you ready to transform your outdoor space with a fresh deck design? Call Simpson Decks and Construction now to get started on your railing installation.