Railings may seem like a necessary safety feature for your deck, but the railings can actually have the same kind of visual impact out the back of your property that a fence can have out the front. They are indeed a vital safety feature, but today’s designer railings can enhance your deck’s form as well as its function.

1.      Choosing The Material

You might opt to craft your railings out of the same material as the deck itself, but since there are so many options out there, many homeowners now choose railings that complement the deck instead of using an exact match. This can be really eye-catching, as mixing different tones and hues can make your deck look unique.

Deck railings range in price – you’ll pay anything from $15 per linear metre to 10 times that amount for the most expensive railing options. Keep in mind that this is an area where choosing good quality products over cheaper ones will be beneficial. Better materials will last longer, which is desirable when you’re investing in a long-term addition, like a deck. Even if you can’t build your entire deck out of high-end materials, you can perhaps complement your less expensive deck with a statement railing.

2.      DIY Railings

If you have decided to go down the DIY route for your deck railings, chances are the plans you have drawn up or purchased include all the steps required for installation. But if you want an even simpler option, many companies are now offering DIY-friendly kits for railings made of wood, glass, cable, composite and metal. Regardless of which material you pick, the most important part of your deck railing should be its stability. Professional plans and railing kits contain specific instructions of how to anchor railings securely, which is integral to the stability of the structure.

3.      Caring For Railings

If you’ve chosen to construct your railings out of the same material as your deck, then the instructions to keep it all looking good will obviously be the same. But if you have opted for a different material, you may need to maintain it separately. This is usually just a thorough wash at least once a year, and for some materials, this is the only care it needs.

4.      Dealing With Building Codes

Building codes are often pretty lax in some areas, but when it comes to railing, the regulations are strict. Complying with these codes is necessary for the safety of your family and visitors. If your structure isn’t up to scratch, you may find yourself dealing with expensive alterations down the track. Most plans and kits on the market take these regulations into account, but always double-check that your railings and deck are built to the standards of your local building codes.

Have a look at our other carpentry guides or check out Oneflare’s directory featuring qualified carpenters that might be able to help you out with your job.