Decking & Railing Systems

Vinyl

• Standard vinyl railing systems are available in colors, including white, tan and khaki, and heights to suit residential or commercial purposes. According to international manufacturers such as Fairway Vinyl Systems, vinyl eliminates the need for painting and maintenance. Titanium dioxide pigment provides UV resistance, adding to the durability and structural integrity of these systems. These systems come with a choice of baluster styles, two-piece brackets without visible screws and matching porch posts and other accessories.

Aluminum

• Among the characteristics of aluminum decking are its fire, mold, mildew and slip resistance. According to manufacturers such as Last Deck, other advantages of aluminum are that it is non-toxic, does not warp, split or crack, and is lightweight. Aluminum railing systems offer long-lasting use. Manufacturers such as Deckorators provide a lifetime limited warranty for aluminum railing systems manufactured from heavy-gauge aluminum with a thick powder-coated finish. The system comes in 36- and 42-inch rail heights and is available in 6- and 8-foot lengths plus a range of options. Cap and insert innovation enables cap rails to snap on without fasteners showing.

Wood

• Some maintenance-free wood grain decking systems offer beauty plus practical advantages such as splinter-free and soft underfoot surfaces. Decking systems come in a range of colors. Traditional railings to fit the decking are available in a selection of patterns to suit individual styles. Homeowners also have access to complementary products on the market to enhance wood decking systems, including deck lighting, outdoor furniture, pergolas and fencing. According to the Eco Vantage website, pressure treatments for natural wood decking guard against warping and rotting but contain toxic chemicals. An alternative is the EcoDeck premium wood decking and railing system, fashioned from renewable and thermally-modified yellow pine. According to the manufacturers, the EcoDeck system is weather-, mold- and insect-resistant.

Composite

• Composite decking blends wood fiber, plastic and additives that create a low-maintenance product. The polymer content guards against moisture so the decking does not shrink or expand. Composite decking is also insect-resistant and is hardy in extreme weather. Composite decking and railing systems offer flexibility in design, ranging from classic to modern and from traditional grains to uncommon hardwoods, as well as returns on investment. For example, the TimberTech website cites “Remodeling Magazine’s” 2009 to 2010 Cost vs. Value Report. Based on specific criteria, the report estimates a national average return of 71 percent on investment for composite deck additions. On this basis, incorporating or replanking a deck adds value to properties with a view to future resales comparable to say the addition of a bathroom or a kitchen remodel.