31 Deck Railing Design Ideas

An important feature of a deck’s design, the railing provides safety, privacy and style. When choosing a railing for your deck, consider whether you want it to be a focal point of your outdoor living space or if you prefer a less conspicuous style that lets your home’s surrounding scenery stand out. Wood, metal or vinyl deck rails can add privacy and a decorative touch, while glass or cable rails offer a sleek, modern look that won’t obstruct any views. Woods suitable for railings include cedar, white oak, redwood and pressure-treated wood. You’ll also want to take maintenance into account when selecting a deck railing material; wood, for example, will require regular staining and sealing.

Before beginning any deck project, check local building codes for railing height and spacing requirements. A railing system is usually required for any deck or porch that is more than 30 inches above the ground and your railing must be at least 36 inches tall. There are also codes for open-rail systems and requirements for the spacing of vertical pillars or balusters.

A fence and deck rail with a dark stain, inspired by Chippendale-style designs and custom-made by Atlanta Decking and Fence, complements this home's exterior and landscaping.

These cable rails lead up a stairway to the covered deck area of a cedar poolhouse. The advantage of using metal elements in deck rail design is that they require less maintenance than wood, which needs to be refinished regularly.

This composite deck design features a relatively simple rail that is enhanced with seating and a planter to make good use of the space.

What an ideal berth to take in the gorgeous views from this modern, wooden deck with cable railing, an angled bench and gas fire pit.

A curved deck rail softens up this deck design.

This wraparound deck features a simple deck design with a nautical appeal and offers ocean views from every angle.

A weighty railing matches the heft of the rest of this lake house.

Crisp white posts and classic rails define this handsome, traditional deck rail design.

Sleek metal railing in a simple design adds modern flair to the exterior of this home.

The design of this beachfront deck is minimal, with a thin pergola and railing, so as not to obstruct the view.

Not much gets between this La Jolla, California, house and the ocean. Walls of windows and a unique floating deck allow the residents and their guests to take full advantage of sweeping views of water and beach and a low deck rail keeps everything visible.

This majestic mountain view from the balcony at East Bay in Colorado benefits from an unobtrusive design featuring horizontal metal cables and metal posts painted a naturalistic redwood shade.

This home's ipe deck features custom Asian-style wooden deck rails that perfectly complement the home's design.

When the view is this great, the deck rail lets it shine through. Black rails give a more contemporary feel.

This home's outdoor spaces are as fun as the indoor ones with an elevated deck, outdoor kitchen and pool area with pool house. Decor in blue and gray unify these areas with the main house's interior.

This long covered deck puts occupants out close to the water and connects to an outdoor living room with a fireplace. Solid wood and metal railing anchored by stone pillars make this dramatic deck feel substantial.

This updated row house features a modern deck with a wooden privacy fence whose horizontal boards give it a fresh, contemporary look.

A brick fire pit is surrounded by horizontal wood railing and bench seating that lends a streamlined, clean look to this outdoor space.

A water feature draws the eye to the unique stone surround of this modern swimming pool, which features an elevated hot tub and sweeping city view. Ipe wood is used on the modern railing and surrounding deck.

You can't go wrong with clean, classic, black deck railing. Fiberon Horizon Railing complements both traditional and contemporary architectures and looks equally at home with wood-toned or gray decking. As an added bonus, the flat top rail makes a great resting spot for your drink.

A combination of painted and stained wood and dramatic end caps on this deck rail lend a custom look.

Even the most basic deck design can get a bespoke treatment with creatively arranged wooden slats.

This exotic glass deck railing in Thailand lends a unique finish to this sleek, whitewashed space.

This updated cable rail system on an upper deck provides safety, but also allows views to be enjoyed when homeowners or guests are seated.

The details of this deck are linear and graphic, giving the space a modern feel. With a low deck, a more minimalist rail is allowable since safety is not such an issue. A wood wall at the base of the deck helps tie the house to the yard.

An outdoor deck on the back of this brownstone was made out of ipe wood and placed on sleepers. The high railing keeps it safe for little ones, but still allows the space to feel open and airy.

This transitional curved deck is a stunning architectural feature highlighted by the furniture arrangement. Neutral colors and fabrics coordinate well with the natural outdoor elements.

Using a simple design on the metal railings that echoes the layout of the decking unifies the two elements for a modern mountain finish in this vacation home.

Though more porch than deck, this modern wooden rail shows how significantly the right rail design can elevate and give a unique look to a home.