Exterior Rail for Your Deck

Building a deck? Whether you are using treated lumber, composite wood, or something else, a great railing can make the difference between a good deck and a great deck. Depending on what you choose, you can also include certain features and enhancements to set your deck apart. These railings are also important for safety: according to Virginia’s building code, the railing should be used anywhere from thirty to forty-two inches above the stair, floor, or ground’s contact, and spaces between the railing should be less than 4-3/8″. (Note: please check your local building codes to assure compliance). Read more about the different options available to enhance your deck with exterior railings.

Good Option: Treated and Primed Wood

For a regular treated deck, treated wood and primed wood is the best solution. Our Madison and Crozet stores carry primed WM8840 and WM8841 top and bottom rail, which provides a traditional appearance. These can be installed with traditional nails or screws and comes in 8- to 16-foot lengths. Additionally, treated wood options include a 2×6 or 5/4×6 top rail with 2×2 balusters. For best results, C-grade lumber is recommended.

Better Option: Wolf Decking

Wolf Composite Decking offers its own railing system, requiring low maintenance and new cover clips that lock into place. They also offer a BenchMark Vinyl Rail line, featuring a contoured top with square balusters and a top rail that is reinforced with aluminum. Additionally, Level Rail comes in sections of six, eight, and ten-foot lengths, and stair rail is available in six and eight-foot lengths.

Best Option: Azek and TimberTech

Azek and TimberTech offer premiere composite railing with an increased price level. This rail takes more to install because the balusters come individually instead of in pieces. Their system comes in white color with a contoured top and is available in six and eight-foot lengths. Azek and TimberTech also offer accent lighting, in-deck lights, and post-cap lighting for extended entertainment into the summer.

Other Options

Fairway Cable Rail is available both in Madison and Crozet. The cable rail comes in 8-foot kits and also includes handrails and end caps. This railing can add a modern look to your deck while providing added safety and an easier installation. More of our Fairway products available in either store can be found on our e-commerce website.

Aluminum and Steel Rails are available through special order. Both options are available in black, and our Aluminum rails can be ordered in white. Special colors can be ordered but have a longer lead time. Check with one of our Cardinal Home Center sales team members for options, colors, styles, and delivery times.

Want to learn more about what options may work best for your deck? Contact our stores in Madison and Crozet – our team can show you what is available and what we can also special order for your next project! Thinking about building a deck also? Check out our recent article to Consider Composite Decking, or check out our treated Select Deck products!