Here’s a question we get asked all the time: I’m building a porch, deck, or balcony – do I need railing? In most cases, the answer is simple, “yes.”
While some local codes deviate from this, all decks that are built 24 inches above grade (ground level) must have guard rails, and for the most part, these rails must:
- Have a minimum height of 36 inches
- Have maximum spindle spacing of 4 3/8 inches
- Be designed and constructed to withstand a 200-pound load applied from any direction
- Installed on stairs with more than three risers (additional requirements apply to stairs)
Whether they are required or not, one can always make an argument to add railing to any deck project. Here’s why.
Safety
Railing prevents people and pets from falling off your deck, which is why safety is the main reason you should always install railing on a deck. Even when decks are built low to the ground, there’s a risk of injury or death if someone falls.
This is especially true with small children. As we have all experienced, kids have a tendency to run around and not watch where they are going – which can be quite dangerous on a deck.
Railing also prevents things (plants, furniture, grills, speakers, etc.) from falling off your deck and landing on someone.
Style
Decks are a great way to extend the living space of any home. But at the end of the day, a deck is just a floor – the railing is what sets it apart from the pack.
Railings add beauty and functionality to any deck, porch, or balcony. At Color Guard Railing, we offer several lines of premium vinyl railing and aluminum railing to bring safety, style, and strength to any outdoor living space.
This includes:
- Classic Vinyl Railing featuring a gently contoured top rail with aluminum inserts for durability
- Lincoln Aluminum Railing – flawless, rugged, and easy to install
- Savannah Vinyl Railing with a clean, classic look that stands up to the tests of time and resembles painted wood
- Aspen Aluminum Railing – sleek powder-coated black aluminum for a minimalistic and modern aluminum railing design
Ready to get started?
