Pros and Cons of Different Deck Railings: Choosing the Best Option for Your Space
A well-designed deck railing not only enhances safety but also contributes significantly to the overall aesthetics of your outdoor space. Along with decking, it’s also one of the big factors when it comes to total project cost.
With a variety of railing materials and styles available, it can be difficult to know which option best suits your needs. In this article, we’ll explore four popular deck railing choices we recommend: wood railings with a composite drink rail, composite railings, aluminum picket railings, and aluminum with stainless steel cable railings—each with its own unique advantages and potential drawbacks.
Wood Railings with a Composite Drink Rail
Wood railings provide a classic, natural look that complements many home styles. When paired with a matching composite drink rail—a flat, durable surface that sits atop the railing—this option combines traditional aesthetics with enhanced functionality and longevity, all at an economical price point. Wood Railings can be expected to last between 15-25+ years, depending on maintenance and conditions.
Pros:
✅ Natural Appearance – Wood railings, whether made from cedar or pressure-treated lumber, offer a warm, organic feel that fits in well in the Pacific Northwest. Pressure-treated wood comes with a built-in warm-brown stain that lasts 8-12 years before needing to be refinished to maintain its color, while cedar, if left unstained, will fade to a silvery gray over a few years.
✅ Customizable – Wood railings can be cut, shaped, and stained to match any deck design.
✅ Most Cost-Effective Option – Wood railings are typically about half the cost of composite railings and around 40% of the cost of aluminum with stainless steel cable railings, making them the most affordable choice.
✅ Strong and Durable – We build our wood railings to well exceed code strength requirements, and the composite drink rail provides a low-maintenance, weather-resistant surface that protects the top of the railing from UV damage and moisture.
Cons:
❌ Maintenance Required – Cedar requires staining or sealing every few years to retain its natural color, while pressure-treated wood may eventually need refinishing to keep its appearance.
❌ Potential for Splinters and Deterioration – Without proper care, over time wood railings can splinter, rot, or become structurally unsound.
❌ Longer Installation Time – Unlike prefabricated railing systems, wood railings require more labor and craftsmanship to install. This increase in labor is offset by lower overall materials cost.
Product Recommendation:
Cedar: A great choice for a rich, natural look that is beautiful when stained, but requires restaining every few years.
Pressure-Treated Wood: Best for cost-conscious homeowners looking for low-maintenance color retention for up to a decade.
Composite Drink Rail Option: Consider a matching or accenting color Trex, TimberTech AZEK, Deckorators, or Apex deck board for a durable and stylish top rail.
Composite Railings
Composite railings are made from a mix of wood fibers and plastic, offering a low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood. They typically come in white, black, or brown with several styles. A low maintenance option, with a simple pressure wash every year or two, these railings will look fantastic for decades to come.
Pros:
✅ Low Maintenance – Composite railings do not require staining, sealing, or painting. They are highly resistant to rot, mold, and insect damage.
✅ Long Lifespan – High-quality composite railings can last 30+ years with minimal upkeep, and many come with a 25yr Warranty
✅ Consistent Appearance – Unlike wood, composite materials don’t fade or warp significantly, maintaining their look for years.
✅ Traditional Aesthetic – Composite railings often feature a Colonial or Cape Cod-inspired design, making them ideal for homeowners who want a classic, timeless appearance.
✅ Customizable - While not quite as versatile as wood railings, many composite railing systems offer options to install low-voltage post lights and post caps, integrated gates, and a variety of different infills such as square composite balusters, round aluminum balusters, and accenting color combinations to achieve your desired look.
Cons:
❌ Higher Cost – Composite railings cost twice as much as wood railings but still less than aluminum with cable railings, and with lower maintenance and longer lifespan, the cost evens out.
Product Recommendation:
TimberTech RadianceRail Express – Great for homeowners who want a clean, classic look with minimal maintenance.
Aluminum Picket Railings
Aluminum picket railings are a sleek, durable, and low-maintenance option that has gained popularity for modern and traditional deck designs alike.
Pros:
✅ Low Maintenance & Rust-Resistant – Unlike steel or iron, aluminum does not rust and requires little upkeep. A simple wash with soap and water keeps it looking new.
✅ Lightweight Yet Strong – Aluminum railings are sturdy and long-lasting, making them an excellent investment.
✅ Modern & Traditional Aesthetics – Available in various colors and styles, aluminum pickets can suit contemporary or classic deck designs.
✅ Efficient Installation – Prefabricated aluminum railing systems install fairly quickly and can slightly shorten the length of your project.
✅ Customizable - Aluminum Railings allow easy incorporation of deck and railing lights , allowing you to create a warm, inviting ambiance. Many systems also offer gates, and a variety of top rail styles to fit the aesthetic you’re looking for.
Cons:
❌ Higher Initial Cost – Aluminum railings are slightly more expensive than composite railings.
❌ Less Natural Look – While aluminum can be styled to mimic wrought iron, it doesn’t offer the same warmth or organic feel as wood.
Product Recommendation:
RailFX Oasis Picket Railing – Provides a clean, modern appearance with easy installation.
TimberTech Impression Rail Express – A high-quality, pre-assembled system with several top rail options, including a Composite Drink Rail option.
Aluminum with Stainless Steel Cable Railings
For those seeking a modern, open look, aluminum railings with stainless steel cables offer a sleek and minimalist design that maximizes sightlines.
Pros:
✅ Unobstructed Views – Cable railings create an open, airy feel, making them ideal for decks with scenic landscapes.
✅ Durable & Corrosion-Resistant – Both aluminum and stainless steel are resistant to rust and require minimal maintenance.
✅ Contemporary Design – This option complements modern architecture and upscale outdoor spaces.
✅ Long-Lasting Investment – High-quality cable railings can last many decades with proper care.
Cons:
❌ Higher Cost – Stainless steel cable railings are one of the most expensive railing options, costing about 2.5 times as much as wood railings.
❌ Cable Tension Maintenance – Over time, the cables may require occasional tightening to maintain proper tension.
❌ Longer Installation Time – Stainless steel cable railings require careful installation and tightening, so they may take more time to install than other railing systems.
Product Recommendation:
RailFX Oasis Cable Railing – A high-quality aluminum and cable system designed for durability and easy installation. *Our Preferred System*
TimberTech Impression Cable Rail – A premium option known for clean, modern aesthetics.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Deck Railing for Your Needs
Your decision will ultimately depend on budget, maintenance preferences, and aesthetic goals:
For affordability and a natural look, wood railings with a composite drink rail offer great value.
For low-maintenance traditional charm, composite railings are an excellent option.
If you prefer a sleek, sturdy design, aluminum picket railings are a great choice.
For a high-end, modern aesthetic, aluminum with stainless steel cable railings provide stunning views and durability.
Whichever you choose, a well-constructed railing enhances both the beauty and safety of your deck for years to come, and we are happy to help you choose the right one for you.
