Calgary Deck Installations: Importance of a Railing

Decks are the perfect place to host a Fourth of July party or cuddle with a loved one on an autumn afternoon. They come in all shapes and sizes, custom-built to accommodate your preferences. However, one detail may not be optional: a railing. When you contract deck services in Calgary, you’ll need to discuss this important feature before construction begins.

Why You Should Add a Railing to Your Deck

Compared to the total material and labour costs of building a deck, adding a handrail isn’t that much. In fact, you can choose a simple design that functions well and looks lovely without breaking the bank. The addition of a rail also makes your deck look more expensive, which can entice potential buyers if your house is on the market.

However aesthetically pleasing a handrail may be, its purpose, first and foremost, is to prevent falls. Hitting the ground from even a few feet up can cause severe injury:

• Bruises
• Knocking the wind out of you
• Broken bones

Kids and pets are especially vulnerable since they may get wrapped up in play and not watch where they’re going. A sturdy railing can help you avoid a costly trip to the hospital.

Why Some Homeowners Eschew Railings

Since most decks are custom-built, they don’t have to be a regular shape. In fact, some homeowners prefer a particular irregular shape because it better suits their needs. However, unusual angles can make handrail installation seem impossible. Won’t the labour costs be sky-high?

Fortunately, this isn’t usually the case. The price of installing this safety feature remains much less than the cost of building the deck in the first place — not to mention the expense of hiring a lawyer if someone falls off and sues you for damages.

Some homeowners just don’t like the look of a railing. However, when it comes down to safety or aesthetics, choosing safety is the better decision. Even an accidental tumble off a low deck can result in a sprained ankle or other injuries.

What You Need To Know About Decking Codes

In some instances, you may not have a choice about whether or not to add a railing. Decking codes regulate deck dimensions and safety features. For example, if your deck is 30 inches or higher, you must have a handrail. A railing is optional for anything under that height.

Which Railing Type Is Right for You?

If you’re worried about a handrail ruining the visual effect, know that you have plenty of options to make your deck as gorgeous as possible. For example, you can match your deck planks with genuine wood. If you love the look of wood but want something with lower maintenance and greater durability, you can go with composite, a synthetic material that mimics wood grain.

Vinyl is another low-maintenance option with a long life. It’s scratch- and water-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor use. Since it’s synthetic, it’s also available in a wide range of colours and textures, so you can perfectly customize your handrail.

Fans of modern-industrial decor will love stainless steel railings. This material can withstand the elements and is surprisingly affordable. If you want a metal handrail but desire more versatility, then aluminum is an excellent choice. It’s lightweight but incredibly durable and comes in many textures and hues.

Finally, the cable deck railing is a unique option that offers protection against falling without interrupting your view. You can choose from wood or metal frames, ensuring the handrail matches your deck design.

Handyman Connection is proud to offer deck installation in Calgary. We can also handle repair services for decks, plumbing, floors and many other aspects of your home. Find out more by visiting us online or giving our team a call. We provide an estimates upon request.