Deck railings and stairs
Railings and stairs take the most wear and matter most for safety. Here's what goes into getting them right.
A railing is only as strong as the way its posts are attached to the deck framing. Many older decks have posts notched and nailed to the rim, and after years of weather they loosen. Stairs take a beating too, from snow, shoveling and people carrying things up and down.
Railing options
| Railing type | Good for | Things to know |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | Lower cost, matches wood decks | Needs finish; balusters loosen over time |
| Aluminum / steel | Clean look, little upkeep | Usually a system with its own posts and brackets |
| Cable | Keeping a view of the Hills open | Needs strong end posts and periodic tensioning |
| Composite / vinyl | Matching a composite deck | Uses sleeves over structural posts |
When are railings required?
Under the International Residential Code, guards are generally required where a deck surface is more than 30 inches above the grade below, and stairs with enough risers need a handrail. Your local building department enforces the exact heights and spacing. A builder pulling a permit will build to the current rules.
What makes stairs safe?
- Even riser heights and tread depths all the way down
- Stringers sized and supported properly, with a solid landing at the bottom
- A graspable handrail and enough light to see the steps
- Treads that shed water and snow
Signs your railing or stairs need work
- A post or railing that moves when you push on it
- Loose or missing balusters
- Treads that bounce, split or slope
- Stringers that are cracked or soft at the bottom
The builder prices the job after seeing the site, measuring, and talking through materials and layout with you. We don't quote prices, and a number given over the phone is only a rough starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Can I replace my deck railing without replacing the deck?
Usually, if the deck framing is sound enough to anchor new posts. The builder will check how the posts attach first.
Are cable railings allowed?
Cable railings are common, but they must meet guard rules for strength and opening size. Ask the builder and your building department.
Related services
More background: Rapid City deck guide.
Soft boards, a wobbly railing or a deck you've been planning for years?
Call now and a local deck builder will help you sort out the next step.