skip to main content

Porches & Decks

Composite or Wood deck railing?

11 years ago

I'm building a new deck..I purchased Trex decking because I got a great price. I know tree has issues, but the price was right and I will baby it...Now, I need railings and they weren't available at the clearance place I was at. I'm trying very hard to save money....I am looking at timber tech, certain teed ever new (cheapest) or possibly treated wood with aluminum balusters...any thoughts? The ever new really looks plasticy, but I guess they all do except the real thing. I'd really love some advice. Deck railing will be approx. 64 running feet.

Thanks!

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (2)

CaptRandy
11 years ago
Because of warping I have seen in railings I would seer away form composites. Go with real wood and treat properly.
bluejay15
11 years ago
Wondering what you decided for the railings? We are in the same spot. Just finished TREX for the floor/decking but plan to use pressure treated for railings and keep posts pressuretreated. We tried the BEHR solid stain that is marketed to match the TREX colors. Hate it! The stain looks like dirty brown paint. Now looking into semi-transparent stains to let some of the wood grain show through but do not want to compromise on the protection factors. Read about Ben Moore and their Abercoat clear finish (?) maybe apply that over a watered down BEHR for the color? Very confused and disappointed right now.
Related Discussions
Trex Transcend Railing vs Azek Trademark Railing
Q
Comments (1)
Thank you very much for your response. Have you noticed any mold/mildew issues on the rail at the complex? I'm just concerned about going with a composite (which I hear has exposed wood fibers) vs a true PVC product. many thanks, Alicia
...See More
Spacing of wood horizontal railings for deck
Q
Comments (1)
I don't think you'll find a code for horizontal rails (they're not typically used where code requires a guardrail) but if code compliance isn't an issue, typical railing spacing is "not to allow the passage of a 4" sphere" - in other words, close enough that no little kids get their melons through and stuck.
...See More
Hand rails on torch down surface?
Q
Comments (4)
No need to add anything on top of a corectley installed torch down modified roof with all needed flashing those things are a done deal for 20/30 years or so. We lay 2x acq stringers 16'' on center in the direction of the flow with a strip of modified under them,screw decking to the stringers,not past them into the roof. Dap out the rail posts 1 1/2 x however wide the rim joists is,bolt the posts to the rim joists.The Dap out lets the post sit on top of the decking. Its a good idea to figure out what kind of surface you want to walk on a little bit ahead of time, for sure dont plan on walking on the roof. Not really sure about the siding thing, flashing needs to be behind it and over the top of the roof or melted to the flashing by another strip of modified. J.
...See More
Combining Cedar, Composite, Deckorators spindles in my deck railing.
Q
Comments (0)
I have 2 Juliet porches 8' x 4' on my upper floor with pressure treated wood railing that requires yearly scraping and restaining, and I'd like to switch to low maintenance materials. I'm not keen on the all vinyl look. I want to mix things up a little. Here is my plan: Sleeve the 4x4 posts in Menards Ultradeck in Cedar color, using their matching caps and base trim, Then use DecKorators Rail hangers to hang natural cedar 2x4 cross rails (stained to match) Cap the upper 2x4 with Trex Transcend decking in Tiki Torch, install DecKorators aluminum balusters. The picture above will be the final look somewhat. Seems simple, any suggestions/problems with my plan?
...See More

Related Stories

MATERIALS Should You Use Composite Timber in Your Landscape?

By Falon Mihalic

This low-maintenance alternative to wood is made from varying amounts of recycled plastic. Consider it for decks, fences and more

DESIGN DICTIONARY Composite Lumber

Wood fibers and plastic combine to make a superwood that endures the elements

GARDENING AND LANDSCAPING Choosing a Deck: Plastic or Wood?

By Vanessa Brunner

Get the pros and cons of wood, plastic, composite and more decking materials, plus a basic price comparison

LIGHTING Great Compositions: Light and Private Courtyard Houses

By Josh McCullar Architects LLC

Courtyard homes treat you to sun, light, air — and a new way of looking at the landscape

DECKS Decking Materials Beyond Basic Lumber

By Ventana Construction LLC

Learn about softwoods, tropical hardwoods, composites and more for decks, including pros, cons and costs

GARDENING AND LANDSCAPING 8 Rot-Resistant Woods for Your Outdoor Projects

By Falon Mihalic

No need for chemical treatments on your deck or pergola. These woods stand up to weather, insects and time beautifully on their own

LANDSCAPE DESIGN 5 Tweaks for Updating Your Wood Deck

By Falon Mihalic

These improvements can enhance your deck’s look, feel and function

GREAT HOME PROJECTS How to Refinish a Wood Deck

By Christine Tusher

Keep your deck looking its best — and save feet from splinters — by applying a new stain and sealant every year or so

REMODELING GUIDES Union Jack Balustrades Raise the Flag for Railing Style

By Rachel Grace

Do be cross with your porch and deck railings — this intersecting balustrade design shows admirable attention to detail

EXTERIORS Lean on Me: Balustrades and Rails Through the Ages to Today

By Elements of Style

These waist-high barriers offer protection on a balcony, porch or deck, but you're free to go wild with your balustrade style

Sponsored

Dream Baths by Kitchen Kraft

12 Reviews

Your Custom Bath Designers & Remodelers in Columbus I 10X Best Houzz

More Discussions

Any one used Panoramic Doors - please share your opinion

4

Can I screen in my front porch to keep my cat from escaping?

4

Stamped concrete

0

hello Houzzers!

0

how can I add privacy to this screened porch?

12