How to Choose the Right Railing for Your Deck: Style, Safety & Code Tips
Deck railings do a lot more than keep you from falling off the edge. They frame your outdoor space, add personality, and—when done right—can turn a basic deck into something you’re proud to show off.
But with so many options out there, it’s easy to feel stuck. Wood? Metal? Cable? Glass? And what about code requirements? Suddenly picking out a railing feels more like choosing a college major.
Let’s break it down.
Think About How You’ll Use the Space
This one gets overlooked. If you’re planning quiet coffee mornings or late-night wine under the stars, you might want something that doesn’t block your view—like cable railing or tempered glass panels. They’re clean, modern, and make the most of Northern Michigan’s scenery.
Got little kids or big dogs? You might lean toward something more enclosed. Horizontal rails can be tempting to climb, so vertical pickets might give you peace of mind (and fewer gray hairs).
Entertaining a crowd? You’ll want something durable, easy to clean, and maybe even a built-in drink rail. Because nothing kills the vibe like spilled sangria.
Match the Vibe of Your Home
Your deck railing doesn’t have to copy your house, but it should at least get along with it.
Modern homes pair well with minimalist railings—powder-coated black aluminum or sleek horizontal cables. A cozy craftsman or farmhouse might lean more toward traditional wood with chunky posts and classic lines.
There’s room to mix and match, too. Wood posts with black metal balusters? Timeless. Composite railings that match your TREX deck color? Looks sharp and holds up.
If your deck’s visible from the road, a railing that compliments your home's style can boost curb appeal in a big way.
Don’t Forget About Maintenance
Wood railings look great—at first. But they need staining, sealing, and the occasional board replacement. If you’re okay with that, awesome. Wood gives a lot of character and warmth.
If you’re more of a “set it and forget it” kind of homeowner, aluminum or composite might be your friend. They don’t rot, they don’t warp, and a quick rinse with the hose is usually all they need.
Glass panels? Beautiful. But be ready to clean them more often than you think—especially near the lake or if you have nosy pets pressing their faces against them.
Know the Local Building Codes
Here in Michigan, building codes require deck railings on any deck 30 inches or higher. Railings need to be at least 36 inches tall and shouldn’t have openings wider than 4 inches (so little heads and paws can’t squeeze through).
These codes help keep everyone safe. If you’re working with a licensed builder (like us at Traverse City Deck Builders), we’ll make sure everything’s up to spec—no stress, no surprise re-dos.
The Final Choice Comes Down to You
There’s no “best” railing—just the best one for your space, your style, and how you live.
Some folks want classic and cozy. Others want sleek and see-through. Some just want whatever the neighbor has because it looks great and works. All fair choices.
What matters is that when it’s done, you step out on your deck, lean on that railing, take a deep breath—and think, “Yeah, this feels right.”
Need help sorting it all out? We’re here for that. No pressure. Just real answers and solid work.