How to Install Composite Deck & Porch Railings
Composite guard railings offer a low-maintenance option for railing. Most low-maintenance decking manufacturers offer one or more railing systems to compliment their flooring products. You will have the opportunity to choose from a variety of colors, styles and options. These systems are available in kits that are relatively easy to install.
These systems use 4x4 pressure-treated wood posts covered by a sleeve and mounted to either the inside or outside of the frame. Each railing section can be easily installed between posts using brackets provided in each kit. Stair railing kits are also available for ease of installation.
Build a jig using scrap material to assist in drilling the baluster connector locations. The width of this jig was cut to 1 1/4" wide to fit inside the channel in the top rail and center on the bottom rail. The manufacturer recommends 4 3/8" on center spacing for 3/4" steel balusters. If you plan on tightening your spacing of balusters, make sure you order extra balusters.
Set your jig to balance the layout of your balusters along the top and bottom railing. You may choose to center a baluster or space at the center of each section of rail. The jig makes it easier to choose the most attractive layout. You don't want a baluster installed too close to the rail posts. Use your jig to pre-drill the baluster connector locations.
Glass Rails
Installing glass rails will usually require you to build the rail frame first and take precise measurements to custom order the tempered safety glass...
Composite vs Aluminum Railing
Composite and aluminum railings are great low maintenance alternatives to traditional wood. Learn the differences between these materials with Decks.com.
Deck Skirting and Fascia
Skirting can be an attractive feature that can be added to any low-level deck.
Our Favorite Outdoor Deck Lighting Ideas
Illuminate the night with our deck lighting ideas for your outdoor space, from string and solar lights to pool lighting. Find inspiration at Decks.com.
Arbors
Learn how to build a shade feature called an arbor along your deck railing. You can even hang flower pots from the rafters.
Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
How to Install Composite Deck & Porch Railings
Composite guard railings offer a low-maintenance option for railing. Most low-maintenance decking manufacturers offer one or more railing systems to compliment their flooring products. You will have the opportunity to choose from a variety of colors, styles and options. These systems are available in kits that are relatively easy to install.
These systems use 4x4 pressure-treated wood posts covered by a sleeve and mounted to either the inside or outside of the frame. Each railing section can be easily installed between posts using brackets provided in each kit. Stair railing kits are also available for ease of installation.
Build a jig using scrap material to assist in drilling the baluster connector locations. The width of this jig was cut to 1 1/4" wide to fit inside the channel in the top rail and center on the bottom rail. The manufacturer recommends 4 3/8" on center spacing for 3/4" steel balusters. If you plan on tightening your spacing of balusters, make sure you order extra balusters.
Set your jig to balance the layout of your balusters along the top and bottom railing. You may choose to center a baluster or space at the center of each section of rail. The jig makes it easier to choose the most attractive layout. You don't want a baluster installed too close to the rail posts. Use your jig to pre-drill the baluster connector locations.
Glass Rails
Installing glass rails will usually require you to build the rail frame first and take precise measurements to custom order the tempered safety glass...
Cable Rail
Cable rails are a modern looking rail system that preserves views. Learn how to install cable rails to meet building codes.
Vinyl Railing Reviews
Compare Vinyl Deck Railings to wood, aluminum, and composite. Find reviews and cost information to help choose the best deck railing for your home at Decks.com.
Deck Skirting and Fascia
Skirting can be an attractive feature that can be added to any low-level deck.
How To Install Deck Lighting
Step-by-step instructions on how to install low-voltage post cap lights. Learn about cutting a groove to hide your wiring.
Solar Deck Lights
Compare the pros and cons of solar deck lights and learn how to install them on post caps and rails at Decks.com.
Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights