Give your home's exterior a facelift with these distinctive deck railing ideas from Instagram.
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10 Deck Railing Design Ideas
Updated on Dec. 11, 2024
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X-Shaped Deck Railing
X marks the spot! X-shaped deck railing, like this example from @londondeckingcompany, offers appealing clean, modern lines. The X shape also elicits a cottage or farmhouse vibe, especially when painted white, making this a versatile choice that works well with many house styles.
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Chippendale-Style Deck Railing
This geometric deck railing, made of interlocking diagonals, was inspired by the Chinese Chippendale designs of 18th-century cabinetmaker Thomas Chippendale. And yet, the railing shape still looks fresh and modern.
On this deck from @city_farm_ky, the Chippendale railing is painted Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black and paired with a parquet deck pattern.
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Steel Mesh Deck Railing
Mesh-style deck railing provides safety with style if you have young kids or pets. Kids can play on the deck without risk of falling through the railing. And the tight grid pattern looks stylishly sleek.
This particular grid railing comes from @wildhogproducts. Each panel is made from six-gauge steel that’s zinc primed and powder-coated, making the railing extra durable and resistant to corrosion.
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Craftsman-Style Deck Railing
If you own a Craftsman-style home, consider a distinctive deck railing to match. This Craftsman-style railing by @deckremodelers combines wood and iron to achieve the chic design.
The wood used here is called is Ipe (pronounced ee-pay), a high-density type commonly used in decking because it’s durable and naturally resistant to termites, rot and decay.
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Laser-Cut Deck Railing
The rails on this deck by @red_isle_ltd are made from powder-coated, laser-cut aluminum privacy screens.
These panels come in many patterns, including the branch design seen here, which blends seamlessly with a home or cabin surrounded by trees.
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Light-Up Deck Railing
At nightfall, this deck from @lbrhomes looks absolutely stunning, thanks to the special light-up railing called Crystal Rail. This frameless glass railing system from Regal Ideas has no posts or rails; clear glass panels offer an unobstructed view. Each mounting bracket includes a pre-installed LED light for deck lighting and gives your entire deck a gorgeous glow.
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Square Web Deck Railing
The intricate square web design of this railing installed by @kleetlumber is something you don’t see every day, with a crisp, coastal style that we love. The panels are made from low-maintenance Cellular PVC which will not rot, warp, rust, crack or peel.
Whether on a full deck, upstairs balcony or deck stairway, web style railing is sure to up your curb appeal.
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Built-In Seating Deck Railing
Everyone loves leaning on the deck railing while sipping a beverage and enjoying the view. But what if you want to linger or have a conversation? Then you want a cozy place to sit.
This curved deck by @advantagelumber includes an elegant built-in bench that’s great for entertaining. Add a few outdoor cushions to make it even more inviting.
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Cable Deck Railing
Cable deck railing is gaining popularity because it gives exterior a modern facelift. Like glass railing, cable railing offers unobstructed views from your deck. And cable railing comes with DIY friendly installation and easy maintenance.
This railing from @deckorators features black railing and silver cables, giving the deck a polished finish.
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Bent Iron Deck Railing
These bent iron deck panels turn your railing into a hand-sculpted piece of art.
Each panel is made from solid 1/2-in.-round iron pieces, welded together seamlessly to create the wavy, organic design. The curvy style pops nicely against the straight lines of your home and deck planks. These unique railings will be the talk of the neighborhood! If you’re looking to spruce up your home’s front porch, then these porch railing ideas should do the trick.
FAQ
What are the building code requirements for deck railings?
According to most building codes, a deck railing must be a minimum of 36 inches tall. This is required on any deck that is 30 inches or more above the ground.
What is the ideal spacing between deck railing posts?
To ensure a sturdy build for your deck, proper spacing is key. While it depends on the size and material you are using, spacing should typically be between 6 and 8 feet apart.
