Your Complete Guide to Deck Railing
A deck is often the centerpiece of an outdoor living space. And nothing makes a deck feel complete like the perfect complementary deck railing.
With seemingly endless options for outdoor deck railing systems, from material to size to style, it may feel overwhelming to narrow down your choices. Check out our guide to deck railing to help understand what’s available and how to find the perfect fit.
What Makes Up a Railing System?
Most railing systems comprise several key parts:
- Railing: Also known as the top railing, or handrail, the railing runs horizontally between the vertical posts, often with a design that’s ergonomic for the hand. More modern designs may be square and minimalist. Or, for entertainers, consider a drink rail, which provides a flat surface for resting cups and glasses.
- Bottom rail: In traditional railing systems, the bottom rail runs parallel to the top rail below the balusters or infill panels and is often smaller and more subtle.
- Infill/balusters: The area below the top rail offers some of the deck railing’s aesthetic versatility. Choose from traditional vertical balusters, horizontal balusters, trendy cable rail, mesh panels, or glass balusters or panels that preserve sweeping views.
- Vertical supports/posts: Rail posts provide the attachment support for rails, horizontal balusters, and infill panels.
- Post caps: All railing kits come with coordinating post caps, but you also can choose a different style to make it your own or add more flair.
- Lighting: Our plug-and-play LED lighting system integrates into the railings, posts, post caps, and even decking to create the perfect soft glow, increasing safety and ambiance for evenings on the deck.
What Are the Types of Deck Railing Systems?
While some decking companies sell a sampling of deck railing options in one or two materials, we offer one of the industry’s most comprehensive collections of decking and railing. This helps homeowners and building pros create an outdoor living space uniquely their own. Options from our Fairway Railing Collection include:
- Aluminum railing: Ideal for when durability is a must, aluminum deck railings withstand harsh weather; won’t rust, splinter, or warp; and are naturally strong. Our Fairway aluminum railing is also powder-coated for increased durability. At the same time, aluminum is lightweight and easy to install. Choose from the elegant A210 or the sleek and modern A310.
- Cellular PVC deck railing: Designed for stability, cellular PVC deck railing offers a strong and durable rail that won’t twist rot or splinter. Its finish allows for further customization as well – it can be left its natural matte white or it can be painted for a truly custom finish. Our P310 and P315 series feature a more traditional style two-piece top rail with a range of infill options.
- Composite deck railing: Like composite decking, composite railing offers the sought-after look of natural wood but without the associated maintenance concerns or the risk of twisting, rotting, or warping. The look and color holds up over time without paint or stain. Our two series—the CP310 and the CP315—offer classic styling that can be modernized using different infill styles.
- Vinyl deck railing: Vinyl railings combine affordability with durability for a budget-friendly railing that stands the test of time and requires little maintenance. Our vinyl railing options include the classic V110 or the more modern V210, featuring a tall but thin top rail.
- Steel deck railing: Nothing beats a classic, and steel railing delivers tried-and-true strength, durability, and low maintenance. Our S110 railing features a minimalist design that is suitable for nearly any outdoor deck or porch. It comes in two powder-coated colors, Antique Bronze and Black Sand.
- Tri-Layer deck railing: TAM-Rail is a triple layer railing system that is known for offering high performance and protection with versatile designs. Plus, it’s durable finish helps it stand up to harsh weather conditions like snow or rail.
What to Look for in Deck Railing Systems
Our Fairway Railing Collection is the ideal complement to an Envision composite deck, delivering style versatility, precision craftsmanship, and long-lasting performance. With styles spanning the full range of materials and infill options, you can find the ideal finishing touch for your outdoor living space.
All our railing comes in convenient kits and packaging for easy ordering and no worries about missing parts and pieces. Plus, the included template and instructions ensure simple, straightforward installation.
Build Your Perfect Railing System
Whether you’re a contractor or a homeowner, we are ready to help you select the ideal railing for your deck or porch project. Explore our Deck and Railing Visualizer to find the perfect combination for your outdoor space or contact us today to get started.
