Decks are an excellent way to achieve more usable space for your home and also add equity at the same time. Today’s decks are a far cry from the decks of yesterday. Homeowners are expanding their homes by bringing the outdoors in, creating outdoor kitchens, eating areas and even living rooms. No longer just a place to grill dinner, decks are becoming a major hub in the home.
Within the last decade, the deck industry has developed an extensive array of railing designs to complement any decking material or style. Depending on the deck style, the railing is usually the deck’s most prominent feature so it must marry well with the decking material and the home’s architecture. The most popular materials are composite, treated wood, metal, glass, and a combination of any of these materials. All of these of available through Railing Design in Suffolk County NY.
* Composite -; These can be PVC, capped composites and aluminum decking to name a few. The industry has made huge improvements since the 80’s and 90’s as the material has better fade and stain resistance, and less likely to breed mildew and mold. There are more natural looking wood tones that mimic exotic hardwood grains. It is low maintenance and never has to be stained, painted or sealed. Most are sold with a warranty against rotting, splitting, cracking and pest damage.
* Metal -; Powder coated aluminum and galvanized powder coated steel railings and balusters are low maintenance and available in many styles and colors. Typically round, flat or square in shape, metal affords a sleek, modern look. Baroque style balusters with their gentle curves have a classy European flair.
* Glass -; Best used on decks offering a spectacular view -; think ocean or mountain. The glass and cable railings are contemporary and practical, offering unobstructed views while affording protection. The glass is tempered and has a polished edge and can be tinted as well.
Residential decks attached to single family homes are regulated under the International Residential Code (IRC). Railing Design in Suffolk County NY must meet these requirements. They do not dictate the style of railing to be used, but they do set codes as to the height of the railing and the interior sections of the rail (balusters). Railings are required on any deck that is 30″ above grade and stairs must have handrails. Click Here to know more.
