Planning a deck construction project? Don’t forget deck railings in the design phase. Railings are required for safety, but they provide an opportunity to add architectural interest.
Deck Railings for Safety
The International Residential Code for homes requires rails to be at least 36″ in height, measured from the deck surface to the top of the rail. Railing must have the strength to stand up to a concentrated 200-pound force anywhere along the top of the rail. Space the railing posts no greater than 6″ apart. The sweep space is the area between the deck surface and the bottom rail, and it must be less than 4″.
In addition to all of this, the rails themselves must be spaced so that you can’t pass a 4” diameter sphere through the distance between the rails.
In terms of safety, that’s what your deck construction project must consider. But what about in terms of aesthetics?
Deck Railings for Architectural Interest
Just because you need deck railings for safety doesn’t mean they must be boring. Even plain metal railing can add beauty when you change the lines.
The simple outwards bow in the balusters changes the entire look of this walkway. Instead of meh, it’s marvelous. This railing meets safety standards and does pretty darn good doing it. Remember, balusters don’t have to be boring.
Not all railings are limited to simple vertical balusters. How about this take on railing?
This deck has a beautiful view that you really don’t want to restrict with traditional railing. So why use traditional railing? This design meets all safety requirements and doesn’t block the view. The thin horizontal and vertical lines disappear as you gaze in the distance. Traditional deck railing just wouldn’t be the same.
Railings without the Rails
One of the newest trends in deck safety is use of deck railings that don’t even use balusters.
Glass and plexiglass panels provide safety and a completely uninhibited view. After all, if you’ve got a deck with a view of the Pacific Ocean, you’ve got a premium view. Why use anything less than premium safety products? You wouldn’t.
By maintaining the sweep space you still maintain air flow. These panels won’t cause you to swelter as you admire the view. The posts contribute minimal visual disruption and the panels provide a maximum view.
And you don’t even need to be on the ocean view to enjoy this modern trend.
This railing style combines traditional posts with clear panels. This allows maximum light and tricks the eye into thinking the space is larger than it is. What a great improvement to this small balcony!
Turn to the Deck Construction and Waterproofing Experts
Don’t design your deck alone. Turn to the experts at Crank Waterproofing. Crank knows roofs and decks. From waterproofing to repairing, railings to stairs, Crank Waterproofing knows decks. Whether you need to waterproof an existing deck, upgrade your railings, or want an entire new look, look to Crank first. Call (949) 646-9356 or schedule an appointment online today.
