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Railings were once a bit of an afterthought for deck projects, but in recent years pros and homeowners alike have recognized the integral role railings play in the overall look, functionality, and sightlines of nearly every outdoor living space. What’s more, manufacturers have continued to elevate and expand offerings with new styles and colors across a range of materials.
For buyers wondering where to start, Envision Outdoor Living Products, manufacturer of Envision decking and Fairway deck and porch railings, provides a primer on everything you need to know to start the selection process.
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.
· 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, as well as support for the top rail.
· Vertical supports/posts: Rail posts provide the attachment of support for top and bottom 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: Plug-and-play LED lighting systems integrate into the railings, posts, post caps, and even decking to create the perfect soft glow.
Types of Deck Railing Materials
Envision Outdoor Living Products offers one of the industry’s most comprehensive collections of decking and railing. Material options include:
· Aluminum deck railing: Ideal for when durability is a must, aluminum deck railings withstand harsh weather; won’t rust, splinter, or warp; and are naturally strong. Look for powder-coated aluminum railings for increased durability. Aluminum is also lightweight and easy to install.
· 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. Most composite railings feature 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.
· Steel deck railing: Nothing beats a classic, and steel railing delivers tried-and-true strength, durability, and low maintenance.
Deck Railing Styles
The look of a deck’s railing helps set the aesthetic tone and also influences how the railing feels in the hand.
· Modern: There is a growing preference for slimmer railing profiles, which emphasize clean geometry and refined simplicity. These options offer a versatile contemporary style but also optimal visibility to views beyond.
· Designer: Sleek and slim but with a rounded top and channeled detailing, Designer styles offer a transitional option suitable for nearly any home style.
· Traditional: Usually a T-top profile, traditional styles are classic and timeless.
· Drink rail: Provides a flat surface for resting cups and glasses.
Deck Infill Styles
The style of infill is not only critical for tying the entire look of the space together, it plays a crucial role in determining the view. Certain types pair better with particular home styles. For example, an ultra-modern house usually looks best with slimmer balusters or with cable rail infill.
· Balusters: The most common, balusters come in vertical and horizontal options, often in square or round shapes to shift the appearance more modern or more traditional.
· Cable: Cable deck railing is made up of posts with stainless steel cables running between. Cables offer a clean, modern aesthetic along with a narrow profile and gray coloring to help preserve beautiful scenery beyond.
· Glass Slats: An alternative to full glass panels, glass slats offer an unobstructed view and a high-end look.
· Mesh: Mesh infill’s grid-like appearance is suitable for more modern or industrial looks.
To explore railing products, find inspiration, and bring projects to life with an online visualizer, visit www.envisionoutdoorliving.com/start-your-project.
About Envision Outdoor Living Products
Envision Outdoor Living Products, a division of Envision Building Products LLC, provides exceptional outdoor living products to create the exact outdoor space homeowners desire. Envision Outdoor Living offers a wide range of high-quality, beautiful decking, railing, and accessories for pros and consumers, including Distinction, Expression, Ridge Premium, and EverGrain composite decking; Fairway Aluminum, Steel, Vinyl/PVC, and Composite railing solutions; and LED lighting, fencing, pergolas, and more. Learn more at www.envisionoutdoorliving.com.
