Deck Railings, Stairs & Safety Upgrades

Safety First: Modern Railings and Stairs

Your deck railings and stairs are more than decorative features. They are critical safety elements that protect your family and guests from falls and injuries. Building codes exist for good reason, and older decks often do not meet current safety standards.

Here are common safety issues we find with older deck railings and stairs:

• Railings too short: Current code requires 36 inches minimum height
• Balusters too far apart: Gaps must be less than 4 inches to prevent children from slipping through
• Weak post connections: Posts must be properly secured to handle lateral forces
• Missing or inadequate stair railings: Stairs need sturdy handrails for safety
• Uneven stair treads: Creates trip hazards and does not meet code

If your deck has any of these issues, upgrading to code-compliant railings and stairs improves safety and gives you peace of mind. It also protects you from liability if someone gets hurt on your deck.

Railing Styles for Every Design Preference

Railings define the look of your deck almost as much as the decking material itself. We offer many railing options to match your home style and personal preferences. The right railings enhance your deck's appearance while providing essential safety.

Popular railing materials include traditional wood railings that match wood decks beautifully, low-maintenance composite railings in various colors and styles, aluminum railings with sleek, modern appearance, cable railings for unobstructed views, and glass panel railings for a contemporary, open feel.

Each material has its advantages. Wood railings offer a traditional look but need regular maintenance. Composite and aluminum railings require virtually no upkeep. Cable and glass railings maximize views but cost more. We help you weigh the options based on your priorities for appearance, maintenance, and budget.

Professional Deck Stair Construction

Deck stairs need to be built correctly for safety and code compliance. The rise and run of each step must be consistent, railings must be sturdy and properly positioned, and the structure must be solid enough to handle heavy use without wobbling.

We build deck stairs to exact specifications using proper stringer construction, code-compliant tread depth and riser height, non-slip surfaces for safety in wet conditions, and sturdy handrails at the correct height. Whether you need simple stairs to ground level or more complex stairs connecting multiple deck levels, we ensure they are safe and built to last.

Many older decks have stairs that are too steep, have uneven steps, or lack proper railings. Upgrading to new stairs that meet current building codes makes your deck safer and easier to use. We can match your new stairs to existing deck design or create a new look if you are updating the entire space.

Additional Safety Features and Upgrades

Beyond basic railings and stairs, we offer several upgrades that improve safety and usability. Deck lighting helps prevent trips and falls after dark while creating ambiance. Non-slip coatings or textured deck boards reduce slipping hazards. Gates at the top of stairs prevent small children from accessing stairs unsupervised.

We also reinforce existing structures that feel shaky or unstable. Sometimes the deck itself is fine, but the railings need better attachment or additional posts. Other times the issue is deeper and requires structural work. We assess your specific situation and recommend the most cost-effective improvements. Ready to make your deck safer? Call us to discuss railing, stair, and safety upgrade options.

Frequently Asked Questions