Deck railings in Calgary come in many different shapes, sizes, colours, and materials. To help you decide which one would be the best choice for you, we’ve come up with the ultimate guide on railings to help you improve your outdoor space and build your dream deck.
Types of Deck Railings in Calgary
When most think of deck railings in Calgary, their first thought typically is just to consider them as a safety feature. However, these railings are not just installed for the sake of safety.
Deck railings add character and depth to a (mostly) flat surface and can make the entire deck or patio look and feel complete. Considering that there are almost countless options to choose from, finding the perfect railing for your home will be no easy feat.
#1 Wood
Wooden deck railings are the classic choice for any home, offering timeless charm and endless customization options. From pressure-treated lumber to cedar, mahogany, and redwood, you can pick from a wide variety of woods, each with its own unique colour, hardness, and special traits.
Pro Tip: Cedar is celebrated for its durability and natural pest resistance, while pressure-treated lumber is budget-friendly, highly durable, and easy to paint, stain, or refinish.
When it comes to design, you have plenty of patterns to choose from. The traditional wooden deck railing with straight posts is a popular option that suits any home style. However, if you’re aiming for something more modern and eye-catching, consider intricate interlocking patterns with angled and dynamic posts.
For a unique flair, a sunburst pattern can be easily tailored to match your aesthetic. If you prefer a more solid look, lattice panel designs offer crisscrossing wood panels that can double as support for climbing plants around your deck.
For added functionality, why not incorporate built-in seating that uses the wooden rails as backing? This is perfect for entertaining guests outdoors. You can even have outdoor benches that double as storage, giving you the ultimate outdoor setup!
Wooden railings are not only versatile but also affordable. That said, they do require regular maintenance to stay in good condition. Keep in mind that more intricate designs might be trickier to maintain due to extra curves and crevices. Regular upkeep typically includes cleaning, staining, and painting to ensure your wooden railings remain sturdy and beautiful.
#2 Metal
Metal and aluminum deck railings are also a popular choice for deck railings in Calgary, offering a sleek and modern alternative to wood. Typically made from aluminum, galvanized steel, and iron, these railings are highly customizable due to the malleability of metal, allowing for a variety of shapes and designs. Plus, metal balusters can be thinner than wooden ones, providing a better view beyond the deck.
While steel railings are not commonly used because they tend to rust, they can still be an option if you’re willing to commit to regular maintenance. Aluminum, on the other hand, is a superior choice for deck railings. It’s completely rust-resistant, withstands harsh weather conditions with little upkeep, and requires minimal maintenance. Custom aluminum railings come in various finishes, like powder coats, adding a touch of style to their durability.
Wrought iron is an excellent option for Victorian-style homes, offering a stately and regal look. The ornate designs of wrought iron balusters are visually stunning and provide plenty of visibility to the surrounding landscape. However, wrought iron is highly susceptible to rust, even more so than steel. That means that maintaining its condition can be challenging with constant exposure to the elements.
#3 Wood + Metal
For a stylish blend of tradition and modernity, consider combining wood and metal for your deck railings in Calgary! This approach lets you mix things up with wooden posts and metal balusters, creating a contemporary look that stands out.
You can choose between straight or arched metal balusters to match your taste, adding a unique touch to your deck. This combination offers a visually appealing design and balances the warm, natural feel of wood with the sleek durability of metal.
#4 Composite
One of the most popular choices for railing systems on composite decks is the composite material itself. Made from a mix of wood particles and plastic, composite railings are incredibly weather-resistant and virtually maintenance-free.
They mimic the appearance of wood while offering superior resistance to the elements. That makes them an excellent choice for outdoor use.
However, composite materials do have some drawbacks. Unlike wood or metal, small damaged areas in composite railings can’t be easily repaired and typically require a full replacement of the affected piece.
Also, composite railings come in a limited range of colour options. While they are priced similarly to aluminum railings, they aren’t as durable. So unless you prefer the look of composite over metal, aluminum might be a better choice for your deck.
#5 Cable
If you’re looking for a trendy, modern railing option that offers the clearest view from your deck, consider cable railings. With their sleek design, they pair perfectly with contemporary houses and provide a sturdy barrier without obstructing the view. The thin cables take up much less space than wood or metal, making them ideal for achieving an open, airy feel on your deck.
You can choose to have the cables run horizontally or vertically, as both configurations offer similar benefits. While cable railings are more expensive than other options, the investment is worthwhile if you want to fully enjoy the beauty of your surrounding landscape.
#6 Glass Railing
For a truly modern and unobstructed view from your deck, glass deck railings are a fantastic choice. These railings offer a sleek and contemporary look that seamlessly integrates with any style of home. Glass panels provide a clear barrier that doesn’t obscure your view, allowing you to enjoy the full beauty of your surroundings.
Glass railings can be framed or frameless, with frameless designs offering the most open and seamless look. The panels are made from tempered glass, which is incredibly strong and safe. This type of railing not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your deck but also creates a sense of spaciousness by eliminating visual barriers.
Let YYC Builders Help With Your Deck Railings in Calgary
Looking to enhance your deck with stylish and durable railings? YYC Builders in Calgary is here to help! Whether you prefer the classic charm of wood, the modern sleekness of metal, or the unobstructed views provided by glass, our expert team can bring your vision to life. Call us today to see how we can help with your deck railings in Calgary!
