When it comes to deck railing there are literally hundreds of designs, material options and styles of railings that are available. We have taken a basic deck design (shown below) that allows you to see 12 different raining options on one deck design, and as you can see each design gives the deck a totally different look with each railing option shown.
When Mid Atlantic deck and fence started building decks back in 1987 there were not very many choices of materials. Yes you could use several different species of lumber such as pressure treated pine, western red cedar and Ipe, which are still popular today in railing, design. But with the evolution of railing materials that are now available you options are unlimited.
The most popular railing materials used to day is vinyl. Vinyl railings are offered in several different colors and they have a wide range of baluster options. About 70% of all the deck railings that Mid Atlantic deck and fence co installs are vinyl. We install so much vinyl railing on our projects; we decided to start manufacturing them ourselves. Mid Atlantics vinyl railings are available in kits in the event you wish to build you deck yourself. With dozens of different baluster options you can really make your vinyl railings your own.
Aluminum and steel railings are getting increasingly popular and create a nice look for your deck project but can get expensive quick. But truly do provide a unique and elegant look.
Glass railings provide an unobstructed view but do require a little more maintenance because the glass tends to attract more fingerprints and dirt, But hey if you are willing to spend a little time on them they look great.
Cable railing is generally installed on wood or vinyl posts and is fabricated using stainless steel cables and fasteners. Cable railings offer an unobstructed view and require little maintenance. They are on the upper end of the price range but can truly set your deck apart.
Keep in mind that all counties and municipalities have different requirements for deck railings please be sure to check with your local zoning officials to make sure the railing you are going to use meets those requirements.
