28 Deck Railing Ideas And Designs To Spice Up Your Exterior

Spruced up your interior? Well, it might be the time to do the same with your deck area (if you have one). However, before doing a full-on refurbishment that will cost more than you expect, you might want to stick to the simpler (and cheaper) deck railing ideas. But don’t rush with building one just yet. Take your time to learn a thing or two about railings.

Like with all ideas — there are good ones and bad ones. As years passed, new deck railing ideas rose. Trends determined the designs and materials of the ideas. Wood changed to cast iron. However, what stayed the same was the purpose behind them and the value they added to houses, apartments, and condos.

Want to find the idea that will blow everyone away? Scroll through the post and look at tips, designs, and tricks you can use to develop your ideas (best to do so on your deck). So, sit back, relax, and stroll through the post. If you have anything to share — comment down below.

Are Deck Rails Worth It?

When looking at millions of deck railing ideas, it’s normal to ask — is it worth it? If the simple idea of having it is not enough, there are many more benefits to rip from it. They range from practical ones to more decorative ones. Either way, the railing features we will discuss will help you make up your mind.

Deck railing will keep you safe on the deck. The main purpose of deck railing ideas is to keep the owner safe. If constructed properly, you won’t stumble off the deck accidentally and won’t be hit in the legs by random objects.
It keeps objects on the deck safe. Most deck railings block the lower part, thus keeping objects close to the flooring safe. However, you should be careful with things going over the railing.
Secrecy from the neighbors. Who likes their neighbors looking at their yards? Metal deck railing ideas, especially, can give you privacy in an area where you will hang out the most. If you are looking for that needed privacy — choose the right idea!
Potential dryer. People often use deck railings to dry their clothes. Stick some lines from the wall onto the railing bar and make a makeshift dryer. Just make sure to keep the load light.

Where they truly shine is in the beauty of their designs. If you have seen modern deck railing installments before — they are as beautiful as the older ones. Like deck ideas, good railing designs can beautify even the simplest of houses. And that brings additional benefits.

Deck railing compliments the outdoor space. The best deck design deserves a railing that suits the existing style. So, if you have a minimalist outdoor living space, find a simple deck railing design. All of the elements of the deck have to play together to intensify the beauty factor.
It creates extra space for more decorations! Instead of putting your flowers on the deck, hang them over the top railing. You can easily save a lot of space by doing this.
Deck railing invites to enjoy the view. Instead of standing on the edge to look at your yard — lean on your railing to enjoy the unobstructed view. However, be careful not to fall over the rail.

Things to Consider Before You Create A Deck Railing

Now that you know the benefits, it’s time to pick up the hammer. However, like with all construction projects, you must prepare and consider the safety measures. We have prepared three things you need to consider to speed up the process. So drop your hammer for a moment and grab your reading glasses instead!

Select the Right Material for your Railing

Wood is not the only material at your disposal. Today, other substances have taken over the stage. However, if you want cheap deck railing ideas, stick to wood or try out vinyl deck railings.

Wood deck railing ideas. It’s the cheapest solution for your next construction project. However, where the costs are felt the most is in the maintenance. If you use treated wood, the railing is likely to warp, and that is where most of the costs will come from. However, it is a classic material because it gives your deck a nice touch.
Vinyl deck railing ideas. Vinyl is the best choice for those who are looking for cost-effective materials. With a sizeable initial installation cost, vinyl railings save you money in the long term. They are durable and require little to no maintenance over the years.

However, if you have the money to do so — you can always invest in more sturdy material. Metal and composite are the way to go. They will look nice, keep the costs from overblowing, and keep you safe!

Metal deck railing ideas. Cast-iron railings were the trend in Victorian-age England. The metal railings are some of the sturdiest and most durable railings. Also, if you hate scratches — metal railings are the least to show them.
Composite deck railing ideas. Sometimes, blending things up — mainly wood and PVC (or vinyl) — is better, and you get the best of both worlds. Composite railings offer (probably) the largest variety of colors. Also, it’s much more long-lasting than wood and just as sturdy (if installed correctly) as a metal deck railing.

However, nothing beats glass and cable railings. They are the most expensive materials, and for a good reason — beauty! They catch the most attention from passersby and also have the most benefits. Although, installment-wise, it will take a lot of time to construct them on your deck.

Glass deck railing ideas. When thinking of modern railings — glass might be the first thing that comes to mind. It seems to suit that expensive modern style houses have. Besides being beautiful, they also provide a clearer view of your deck. So, if you want a more open space — glass railings are the way to go.
Cable deck railing ideas. Like glass, cable railings give a clear view of the deck. However, instead of being very practical — cable ones lean more into the beauty spectrum. They provide limited privacy for the owners since they use metal ropes.

Stuck between metal and wood railings? Well, choose the material that best suits your needs. Are you looking for a railing that suits your deck’s style? Or are you looking for the most cost-efficient deck? Either way, it’s best to account for all factors before picking the material for the construction.

Efficient Space Use

The deck is a limited space. For this reason, it’s important to use every inch of it efficiently. No matter the material, the same principle applies to the space the railing takes up. No matter the deck size, it is essential to use every inch in the most efficient way you can. So, take the time to measure your railing and plan your deck for future use.

Safety and Privacy

The deck’s primary purpose is safety. It keeps the person from falling over the railing, off the deck, onto the ground. However, to ensure overall safety, different codes, depending on the place you live in, dictate the main rules for constructing deck railings. So, before you start your construction operations, make sure to check up on the regulations. Better be safe than sorry.

28 Deck Railing Ideas to Spice Up Your Exterior

So, we reached the most important part — the ideas themselves. If you have the materials, the codes, and the plans — all that is left is to pick the right idea. If you are out of creativity — we are here to help you. Below, we have compiled the best deck railing ideas to spice up your outdoor space. We decided to focus more on the popular materials — wood, metal, glass, and vinyl.

7 Wood Deck Railing Ideas

Wood is a traditional material for many railings. However, it’s one of the most versatile materials in construction. So, to help you develop your ideas, we compiled seven of them in the list below.

Classic Countryside Railing

Pine wood deck and classic railing

Image credit: pinecone_decks

High chances are you recognize this design. You can find railings like these in rural areas, especially in farming communities. Thanks to the simple design, it’s easy to implement.

Snaking Down-and-Up Railing

white snaking up and down railing

Image credit: paragonstairs

The wavy design provides privacy and beauty at the same time. However, ensure you maintain the wood, or additional, unforeseen waves could appear. Well, unless you don’t mind a little warping.

Arrowhead Railing

Arrowhead black railing near a house

Image credit: fossilforgedesign

Create one directional wood pattern, or mix it up. If done correctly, your eyes will get lost in the design. To keep things interesting — point the arrow design up, down, left, and right.

Complete Your Wooden Railing Deck with a Pergola

Wooden railing deck with pergola installed

Image credit: Spirit of a Handyman

If you are a fan of Bored Panda, you know how we love our pergolas. Especially the ones that look nice and “expensive.” So, if you are building a railing already — add a pergola to your to-do list.

Mix up the Wood Colors

Black and white wood railing on a blue porch

Image credit: Reddit.com

Buying up wood? Well, buy two types of wood. Preferably one dark, another light. Add more depth to your railing without increasing the cost (depending on the price of wood).

Groovy railing

Image credit: trexcompany

Straight lines can get a bit boring over time. So, to change the view, construct curved wood railings instead. However, maintain the wood to prevent warping.

Whole-Tree Railing

Branches in a wooden railing near a forest

Image credit: woodrailing

Go full nature mode by including the whole tree in your railing. Use the branches as guardrails and cutouts of the tree as top and bottom rails. You could also take your design to another level by building a railing around a tree.

7 Metal Deck Railing Ideas

Metal railings can age like wine. Since the Victorian age, metal railing ideas have been some of the most creative. The reason is that you can bend and twist metal however you want.

Horizontal Bars Metal Deck Railing

Image credit: decksdirect

To keep things simple, try out a horizontal style. It might be one of the most popular styles out there. Also, if you have a creative mind — a horizontal railing can act like a jungle gym.

Vertical railing

Vertical black metal railing on a stone porch

Image credit: invisarail

Tired of keeping things in line? Mix up by going vertical. With this design, you can also spruce up the gaps by adding some cables in between.

Classic Black Railing

Classic black railing on a wooden porch

Image credit: invisarail

The good thing about metal is that it is easy to paint. For this reason, you might want to paint the railing black, a classic color. When the paint wears off — you can always buy a can from any store and repaint it.

Ornamental Railing

Ornament outdoor deck railing

Image credit: barretteoutdoorliving.com

If you are already investing in a metal railing — go all out. Ask a local blacksmith to cut out figures that you would like to add to a railing. It could be cutouts of trees, aquatic art, scenes from wildlife, etc.

Cable Up Your Railing

Black rail with cables in a white house

Imag credit: cablebullet

You can always go with cables instead. Just place a few metal railing poles and connect them with cables (mostly) and a longer piece of metal. It will look good on any deck, especially the more modern ones.

Criss-Cross Railing

criss-cross black metal railings

Image credit: a_frozen_moment_in_time

Neither vertical nor horizontal — nothing can beat the X-like design. It’s simple, it’s eye-catching, and most importantly — it can be rather cheap. A fishnet for the eyes.

Arced Railing

arced black metal railings in a wooden deck

Image credit: decksdirect

If you are saving up deck space — go with an arced metal railing. It adds depth to the design while at the same time saving you some space on the deck. Just make sure to keep the arced part outside the deck.

7 Composite and Vinyl Deck Railing Ideas

Composite and vinyl materials will help your deck stand out. Not only will they be as sturdy as metal ones, but they will also be cost-effective — two wins at once. So, if you need more proof of their effect — check out the seven design ideas below.

Colonial railing

Image credit: julialynnphotography

You can’t beat the old classic look. With composite, you can craft a colonial railing that looks like wood but is just as sturdy as a metal installment. Just make sure to get traditional-looking balusters.

Screen Panel Railing

multi-colored screen panel railings

Image credit: RDI Railing by Barrette Outdoor Living

These railings serve the purpose of not only providing privacy but also allowing an adequate amount of sunlight to filter through, much like a conventional window panel.

True Composite Railing

Composite brown and black deck railing

Image credit: waheheheeeler

Go full-on creative by creating a railing with many different parts. It is the best DIY project you can take on but more on that later!

Mix and Match Colors

Different colored deck railing

image credit: gailmonahan

The good thing about vinyl and composite railing is that you don’t need to paint them, as they come in different colors. Just get the right material, and you are good to go.

Black and White Railing

White and black railing near a house

Image credit: Decks R Us LLC

Because of their longevity, the colors will stay the same for a long time. So, you can build yourself a classic black and white railing and enjoy the view for upcoming decades.

Geometric Railing

Geometric black and white porch railing

Image credit: decksdirect

Geometry — it’s all around us. So, to embrace it, you might as well include it in your vinyl railing. Squares, triangles — everything is allowed. The good news — you don’t need to know math to make railing like this (for the most part).

Pattern Railing

patterned metal black railing

Image credit: bestchicagorailings

Like geometry railings, the ones with patterns have the potential to capture your eyes with their beauty. The pattern can be as creative as you want — avoid hallucination-inducing designs, though. Don’t want to charm the passerby.

7 Glass Deck Railing Ideas

Glass helps create a visible deck while also giving a beautiful trim. However, you have to work with it carefully due to its characteristics. To help you do that, we have compiled the ideas you can work with today!

Single-Panel Railing

Image credit: pro_railings

A simple yet timeless design for your modern house. Install a single panel between two deck posts. It’s slick, it’s charming — it’s timeless.

Multi-Panel Railing

Multi-panel glass railing with black frames

Image credit: cplaluminumrailings

Instead of a single panel, go with multiple ones. If you want to make it even more beautiful — change up the darkness of the panels. Make one panel darker and the other brighter.

Frosted Railing

Frosted glass railings in a patio

image credit: cplaluminumrailings

Miss the winter vibes? If so, install a railing with frosted glass panels. They will provide privacy and look beautiful.

Blurry Railing

Image credit: etp_metals

Instead of having a clear view (who wants that anyway?), disturb it by installing blurry and textured glass panels. Just don’t look much through them. Don’t want to ruin your eyesight, do you?.

Church-like Glass Railing

Image credit: Modern Home Decor

Insert some colors in your life by investing in stained glass panels. Red, black, or yellow — you can get a glass of any color these days.

Etched Glass Railing

glass railing with etched designs

Image credit: Modern Home Decor

Annoyed by colors? Get some glass panels with etched designs on them. Get a dragon and some flowers. The only limit is your imagination… and the bank account.

Frameless Railing

Single-panel glass railings in a curved deck

Image credit: cplaluminumrailings

Slick designs should not be framed. Give more room for the panels so that they would seem to be connected. Let that beauty be free of any frames.

4 Cheap Deck Railing Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank

Sometimes, in fact, often, money is the problem. So, if our compiled designs don’t fit your budget, we have other solutions. Whether a fresh coat of paint or just a few new additions, you can always find a way to spice up an old railing.

Hang a Couple of Flowers on the Top Rail

Flower pots on black metal railing

Image credit: Dangnamit

Nothing says simple and beautiful, like hanging flower pots on the top rail. The choice between the flowers is large. However, if you want something low-maintenance, you can always go with dianthus flowers. With such a large variety of dianthus flowers, you can spice up the railing with eye-catching colors. You may also add some planters to add even more spice to your railing.

Mix up the Materials

Wooden and metal deck railings near a house

Image credit: trexcompany

Do you have some leftover glass panels, wooden boards, or some loose pipes collecting dust in the garage? Well, use these materials in the railing you will construct. Use the things you have around to create your DIY deck railing ideas. However, keep in mind the safety factor. No matter what you use, make sure it is safe to lean against and follows the code of your neighborhood.

A New Paint Job

Man painting white outdoor deck rails

Image credit: This Old House

Nothing solves a problem like a new paint job. The railing is no different. However, bear in mind that this solution does not apply to all materials. Glass, for example, should not be painted on (unless you are making a glass paint project, of course). However, if you have a metal or wood railing, you are in luck! Grab a paint can and a brush from the garage, and let your creativity go wild!

Use your Hobby

Man doing woodwork with a face mask on

Image credit: Antoni Shkraba

From woodworking to metallurgy — most of us have a hobby that involves making stuff. So, why not expand your skills to deck railings too? Grab some material and let your imagination go wild in the workshop. However, as a suggestion, add some color to your work. Interesting in woodworking? Add some DIY works of your own (just make sure to not go over the board). Love to paint? Let your colored creativity fill the blank canvas that is the deck railing.

FAQ

What Are the Deck Railings Trends for 2024?

Preparing for 2024 already? Well, you might want to develop a hobby in the process. Homeowners are increasingly opting for DIY and custom-designed deck railings to add a personal touch and uniqueness to their outdoor spaces. So, if you’re looking for the next big thing in 2024 — learn a craft and do it yourself. Or hire a professional! Glass, cable, and metal deck railings are also likely to stay in style in 2024. Other than that, we can expect minimalist and modern designs to remain in great request.

Does Railing Increase House Value?

Most certainly! The deck alone can attract some eyes on itself. However, it is the railing that can be a game changer for the worth of your house. After all, it is the first thing we all see when we look at the deck of a house.

What is the Maximum Gap Between Deck Railings?

If the code does not give clear instructions, you can make the gap however long you want. Just make sure it is safe and suits the style of the deck itself.

Can You Have a Deck Without Rails?

Of course, you can. However, like a house without a roof, a deck without a railing is both unsafe and, in most cases, not so beautiful (although that’s a personal preference).

What Type of Deck Railing is Best?

Choose the deck railing that best suits the style of your house. However, there is one rule you must abide by. You have to like the railing! If it looks disgusting to you, why build it in the first place?