Deck Railing Ideas

Railings provide the perfect opportunity to add a punch of style to a deck. You can find a variety of materials, colors, and designs to complement your exterior style. Here, wrought-iron railings provide virtually unobstructed views of the backyard and a touch of chic to a basic wood deck.

The post-and-glass railings that wrap around this redwood deck, which extends 8 feet over a hillside, preserve stunning views without compromising safety. If you prefer a glass railing to preserve your view, just make certain it's constructed from safety glass.

Post caps and evenly spaced diamond-shape accents add subtle flair to this otherwise plain deck. Post caps are available in a variety of materials and designs to coordinate with railing, deck, and house styles.

A vertical wrought-iron railing coordinates with the furnishings on this deck. The simple railing design accommodates open views of the landscape.

Easy and inexpensive to build, this classic deck railing features 6x6 posts, 2x4 rails, and 2x2 balusters. Trim around the post tops adds a touch of flair.

This deck might have a high-end look, but it uses basic -- even rustic -- building materials. Rods threaded at each end and tensioned by connector fittings create this aesthetically pleasing, expensive look. Rails and posts are made of galvanized steel.

Make decorative post caps work twice as hard. Not only do these post caps add style to the deck, but they also house low-voltage outdoor lights to guide users at night.

The top-rail tubing, flat posts, and thin cables offer an unmistakably contemporary look and create little obstruction when it comes to backyard views. The stainless steel is virtually maintenance-free because it won't corrode.

This whimsical railing system is made entirely of maple branches. The posts were drilled out and set over steel rods imbedded in the concrete foundation walls. The gaps between branches conform to local codes, but consult with your building inspector before designing a similar type of railing system.

A classic Arts and Crafts-style railing with squared balusters and posts suits the style of this 60-year-old bungalow. Post tops house low-voltage outdoor lights behind translucent panels.

Railings painted white give any deck a refined appearance, and they blend well with natural decking materials. This railing has a double top rail -- a simple but stylish touch.

Several colors of wood stain make this deck railing stand out. Copper finials add a decorative flourish.

A sharp black-and-white color scheme defines this railing, which features curvaceous aluminum balusters. This railing design eliminates the confined feeling that bulky wood balusters can create.

This railing provides necessary security for a raised deck, while the basic white hue and straightforward styling keep attention focused on the lake beyond.

Horizontal runs of galvanized-steel pipe form a striking yet inexpensive deck railing.

Metal accent panels and cables give this deck a modern look. This versatile modular cable system can be paired with site-built wood or metal posts and handrails.

If a decking surface is no more than 24 inches from the ground, railings typically aren't required. However, built-in planters or bench seating (shown here) define the deck perimeter, keep occupants safe, and provide seating.

Expert Advice: Follow the same building codes for built-in benches along the edge of the deck as you would for railings. Make sure the back of the bench is 36-42 inches high if the deck is more than 24 inches above ground.

The thin-profile cable railing preserves backyard views for occupants of the deck. The cable all but disappears at dusk.

This elegant Chippendale-style rail, painted white, distinguishes what would otherwise be an ordinary deck.

This home's contemporary architecture calls for clean lines and a streamlined aesthetic. Bronze railings and a curved strip of copper flashing, both allowed to weather naturally, put a high-end spin on industrial materials.

To ensure that your railings are sturdy and secure, consider these pointers:

-- Test the sturdiness of your railing by moving it back and forth. If it wobbles even a little bit, you need to add support.
-- Make sure the space between balusters is less than 4 inches so children and pets can't squeeze through. Avoid or use caution with horizontal railings if you have children who can climb the rails.