Deck railing

Deck railing designs

Cable railings typically use stainless steel cables strung horizontally. Stainless-steel cable and fasteners are strong and do not obscure the view. Contemporary frame systems use plastic-coated steel cables.

Glass balusters and glass panels are often used for contemporary architectural projects where unobstructed view is important. All-glass railing without a top rail can be used to maximize the effect. There are, however, cleaning, security, and wildlife protection issues.

Other options include wrought iron and sheet steel, into which custom designs can be cut. Ornamental cast-iron railing was popular in the latter half of the 19th century and it is often associated with the Victorian style and with the traditional architecture of American coastal southern cities like Savannah and New Orleans.

Deck railing and building code

Building code varies on the national, state, county and municipal level. Most areas in the world that use a variation of the International Building Code require a guard rail if there is a difference of 30" or more between platforms. Other common requirements are that no space on the railing be greater than that through which a 4" sphere could pass and that the railing assembly be able to withstand a load of 50 pounds per square foot.

Deck railing construction

Wrought iron and other metal railing systems that do not come in ready-to-install kits will usually require a skilled blacksmith, as much welding will be required. These sections are typically built off-site in a workshop under controlled conditions, so that installation on the job site can be as speedy as possible.

Materials

• Aluminium
• Wood
• Wood-plastic composite
• Vinyl
• Glass (panels)
• Galvanized steel
• Wrought iron
• Cable railings
• Metal

References

References

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13. Ingold, David. (February 16, 2010). "Guardrails: Design Criteria, Building Codes, & Installation".
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