Wooden Deck Rail Types

Types of Wood

• The type of wood you select for a deck rail will affect not only its appearance, but also its durability and the environmental impact of the project. Redwood is a relatively expensive option with a deep red color. Softer materials such as pine and fir are more renewable and cost less, but they require pressure treating before they can withstand the elements. Cedar and cypress are other options, offering warm tan colors and generally high durability. The cost of each type of wood for deck rails depends on your location and which trees grow in your region.

Basic Balusters

• Wood deck rails consisting of balusters are among the most basic and traditional options, whichever type of wood you select. Balusters are typically 1.5 inches square and form the vertical rails, spaced out by several inches, between larger posts. Balusters satisfy building codes that require rails on high decks to prevent falls. They can also accommodate a wide upper horizontal sub-rail, which forms a ledge for leaning or placing objects such as drinks, tools and small decorations.

Colonial Railing

• A colonial railing uses a similar layout to a baluster design. However, the individual vertical wooden spindles are turned on a lathe. This gives them a decorative look with a variety of patterns and widths. Colonial railing can use wooden spindles with a consistent pattern, or it can use alternate patterns with two or more spindle designs. Colonial deck rails often accompany decorative posts.

Non-Traditional Rails

• Not every type of wooden deck rail sticks to the numerous variations provided by balusters and decorative colonial railing. Some use the space between sub-rails to create patterns that are partly decorative and partly functional support for the railing. These designs include sunbursts, which feature arrays of horizontal slats in a circular pattern, and die-cut designs in sheets of thin wood paneling. If your rail's posts and horizontal sub-rails are self-supporting and strong enough, you can install any type of rail or wood design in the space they create.