Deck Railing Alternatives
Railings are important to the look and functionality of a deck, offering both a visual and physical barrier as well as a finished look. And though traditionally, deck railings consist of a top wooden handrail, a bottom wooden rung and a row of repeating wooden balusters, alternative designs are also available, offering less obstructed views, more contemporary looks, and the use of waste wood and recycled materials for the environmentally-conscious. Does this Spark an idea?
Glass
For those who prefer to gaze at scenery rather than railing balusters, glass offers a win-win solution. Safety glass combined with wood or metal railings and posts offers a secure, physical barrier and protection against accidental falling. You can choose from glass balusters or solid glass panels for an unobstructed view.
Cables
Another popular option for a minimally obstructed view, stainless steel cables combined with aluminum, wood or stainless steel posts create a safe, secure barrier with minimal visual obstruction. Thin, horizontal cable deck rails offer a spare, minimalist look for today's decks.
Steel Pipe
Offering a sleek, contemporary look, stainless steel pipes combined with wood or stainless steel posts are an inexpensive, durable deck rail option. Choose simple, stacked horizontal rails for a minimalist look, or vertical stainless steel balusters. Incorporate other metals such as bronze or copper to create a hip, industrial design for your deck railing.
Wrought Iron
Wrought iron is a durable, versatile deck rail option, offering looks from classic to modern. Combine wrought iron balusters with wood rails and posts, or railings made entirely from wrought iron. For added versatility, you can paint your wrought iron to match or compliment your exterior decor.
Natural Branches
Incorporate the look of the great outdoors into your deck with a railing made from natural branches. This option offers a unique rustic look and can use one or several branch species. For decks high off the ground, extra care should be taken to ensure stability and code compliance with this option. Better Homes and Gardens suggests embedding steel rods into drilled out wood posts for added stability, and setting them into a concrete foundation.
Waste Wood and Recycled Materials
For a green deck rail solution, consider using composite materials made from recycled plastic and waste wood. Composites offer the look of hardwood while making use of waste wood fiber and recycled plastics from such items as grocery bags and milk containers. Composite materials are long-lasting and resistant to decay, rot and termite damage.
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