Different Deck Railing Types: Which is Best

 The right deck railing can completely transform your deck - in both function and character. But with a vast range of different railing types and styles on the market, how do you find the railing that best fits your deck? You can hire deck building services in Coffs Harbour that can help you decide about deck railing type. 

Deck Railing Types:

There's a massive range of deck railing types on the market, but most of them fit into one or more of these six major categories:

1. Metal Railing

2. Composite Railing

3. Cable Railing

4. Vinyl Railing

5. Glass Railing

6. Wood Railing

Let's dive into the pros and cons of each type:

Metal Railing:

• Pros: It is solid and stable, even as temperatures change. It is incredibly low-maintenance. It is stylistically versatile, with lots of DIY-friendly options.

• Cons: It can be more expensive than wood. It may look out of place in very traditional settings.

Metal railing is a robust, modern, and low-maintenance option. Typically made of powder-coated aluminum or steel, it presents a smooth, polished surface that looks classy and luxurious. The strength of metal allows for skinnier posts and rails, creating a minimalist look. Metal railings are generally easy to assemble, especially with pre-welded railing panels.

Composite Railing

• Pros: Classic, traditional looks. Low-maintenance and long-lasting with lots of color options.

• Cons: More expensive than wood. It's more robust than pure wood.

Composite railing offers a traditional look with the benefits of low maintenance. It's solid, weather-resistant, and made from natural wood fibers and synthetic plastics. Composite railings are typically thick and substantial, providing a wide range of color options that look like painted wood without needing painting or staining.

Cable Railing

• Pros: Creates wide-open deck views. Modern, unique styling with lots of customization options.

• Cons: It can be pricey, especially with complex cable fittings. It's tricky to bend around corners.

Cable railing uses sturdy cables between posts to maximize views. Ideal for highlighting water views, the cables are thin and nearly disappear into the background. The cable railing has a modern, industrial look that fits well with diverse textures like wood or stone.

Vinyl Railing

• Pros: Distinctive Cape Cod or Colonial looks. Easy to maintain, keeping costs low.

• Cons: It doesn't hold color or be composite. Cheaper vinyl systems may only hold up for a short time.

Vinyl railing delivers a specific look suitable for traditional homes. It's low-maintenance and easy to clean, making it a modern upgrade to painted wood railings. Vinyl railing is cost-effective and DIY-friendly.

Glass Railing

• Pros: Premium, luxurious looks. Opens up amazing deck views. Strong and low-maintenance.

• Cons: More expensive and complex to install. Each panel needs to be precisely measured.

Glass railing is luxurious and modern, using tempered glass panels between posts. It maximizes views and natural light, creating a high-end look. While more expensive, the luxury and view-enhancing aspects make it worth considering.

Wood Railing

• Pros: Classic looks range from traditional to timeless. There are lots of baluster style options with an earthy, natural aesthetic.

• Cons: Higher maintenance and weather faster than other types. It may require staining or sealing every few years.

Wood railing offers a classic, natural look but requires more maintenance. It pairs well with modern elements like metal balusters or post caps for a timeless blend. Using lower-maintenance materials for infill and brackets can help extend its lifespan.

Choosing the best deck railing type depends on your priorities; hiring the best deck builder in Coffs Harbour can make your life easy. Consider your deck's style, maintenance requirements, and budget when purchasing a deck railing type. Each railing type offers unique benefits, so weigh your options carefully to find the railing that best fits your deck vision. Whether you prioritize views, ease of installation, or a specific aesthetic, a railing type is perfect for your deck.