5 Cheap Deck Railing Ideas for Your Home

Have you ever looked outside and wondered why your deck looks a bit empty? Well, you need a stylish deck railing to enhance your outdoor space. A deck railing adds elegance and makes your house look instantly better. But, if you’re tight on budget and wonder which deck railing you should get, you’re at the right place.

We have enlisted the best cheap deck railings and their material composition so you can easily choose the one that suits your budget and taste. We have also mentioned several tips on choosing the best deck railing.

Wood Railing

Wood railings are a timeless and affordable choice and have been around for ages. They instantly add appeal and classic elegance to your deck. The best aspect of wooden railings is they come in various styles and designs, allowing you several options to choose from. You may also paint wood railings to match your house décor and deck furniture.

Regarding affordability, pressure-treated wood railings are the best as they are infused with chemicals to make them resistant to rot, insects and wear and tear. They are the most budget-friendly, durable, and sturdy railings that stand the test of time. Another option is cedar wood railing as they are naturally resistant to damage and are highly durable and eco-friendly.

Vinyl Railing

Besides wood railings, vinyl railings are also a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners as these railings are durable, low-maintenance, and affordable. They can also be painted and customized to match your deck. The best aspect of vinyl railings is their low maintenance requirements.

Unlike wood railings, vinyl railings occasionally require cleaning to keep looking their best. This makes them budget-friendly and time-saving in the long run. If you are a busy individual, vinyl railings are the best option.

Moreover, vinyl railings are extremely resistant to outdoor elements like changing temperatures, harsh weather, and UV rays. They are also quite easy to install as they come in pre-assembled parts that can be assembled within seconds. In short, vinyl railings are not only affordable and sturdy, but they also enhance your house’s aesthetic appeal.

Metal Railing

Like vinyl railings, metal railings are also highly durable and budget friendly as they require minimum maintenance. Metal railings are available in several options, including aluminum, wrought iron, and Victorian. You may paint metal railings to match your house décor. They are also available in different designs including, simple, ornate, or geometric, depending on your taste.

Metal railings are also highly weather resistant as they can withstand rust corrosion, fading, and UV damage, ensuring your deck keeps looking brand-new for years.

In addition to affordability and durability, metal railings are safe and secure, giving you peace of mind when your children or pets are around. They are also easy to maintain as they can be cleaned with soap and water without risking rust corrosion. If you opt for aluminum railings, they have the added benefit of being lightweight which makes installation easy.

Composite Railing

Composite railings are made with a combination of recycled plastic and wood, comprising the benefits of both materials. They are also a great choice for budget-conscious individuals looking to elevate their deck. Since they are made with recycled plastic, they are resistant to rot, insects, and climate damage.

Unlike wood railings, composite railings do not require regular maintenance, coating, or painting. They are available in different designs and styles, giving a contemporary look to your home.

If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, composite railings are the best option. One of the best aspects of composite railings is they are eco-friendly as they are made with recycled plastic which reduces plastic waste and pollution.

Moreover, composite railings come in pre-assembled sections, making them easy to install with basic tools you may have at home. So, if you want a railing that is durable, affordable, eco-friendly, and contemporary, go for composite railings.

DIY Railings

If you are pretty tight on budget and have a knack for building things, consider DIY railings. They are easily built using readily available materials like wood and plastic and require basic tools. You can utilize various materials to build DIY materials like repurposing old pallets to create a unique wooden railing. You may also use rope, branches, or wire cables to create a modern railing.

Here are some DIY railing ideas you may consider.

Birch Tree Railing

Make your deck look fancy with birch tree railing, especially if you have a rustic-themed deck. Gather birch tree logs of roughly the same size and put them between the top and bottom rails. You may paint them in white to make them look classic.

Wood Pallet Railing

Utilize your old wood pallets and convert them into a rustic-themed deck railing if you have a cabin. You may use them as it is or paint them.

Rope Railing

If you want a nautical-themed deck, use a rope to create a beautiful railing. Learn different rope knot techniques and put them into practice. This is the most affordable option as you only have to use rope. You may also use a rope railing with an aluminum frame.

4 Tips on Choosing the Best Deck Railing

There are certain things you must keep in mind before investing in a particular deck railing.

Material

The most important thing you must consider before purchasing a deck railing is its material composition. While wood railings look classic, they are prone to rot and termites. Consider composite or aluminum railings as they are resistant to rust, weather conditions, and decaying.

Code Compliance

It is important to ensure that your deck railing adheres to the local building codes. Follow the local building codes and ensure your railing adheres to the standard. Incorporate safety features and ensure your deck is safe for children and pets.

Enhance Views

If your deck offers a beautiful view of the landscape, enhance it by installing minimalistic aluminum railings with clear glass or cables. This blends well with your deck and also creates an illusion of increased space.

Add Lights

Install LED lights on your deck railing to create a beautiful ambiance in the evenings. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also ensure safety and security.

The Bottom Line

With so many budget-friendly deck railing options available nowadays, finding the one that suits your taste and budget is no hassle. With a little planning, you can choose the deck that aligns with your house décor, budget, style, and needs. Always remember to comply with local building codes and choose the material that offers benefits in the long run.