Deck Railing Ideas and Designs

Let’s face it, railing is the ugly stepchild in the deck planning process. Overlooked until the last and usually selected based on what budget remains - and maybe color. But there’s so much more to railing when it comes to designing an outdoor space. In fact, given that you spend more time looking out at the railing than down at the deck boards, it’s only fair that the railing is given its due. With a variety of composite or aluminum options and multiple infills and colors, railing lets your personal style shine.

1. No-Hassle Composite

Looking for a traditional rail style that will stand the test of time while not requiring yours? Durable composites resemble wood but without all the maintenance hassles. Composites, like this Trex Transcend®, won’t rot, warp or splinter, and require no seasonal staining or repainting. Just a periodic soap and water cleaning is all that’s needed.

2. Mix and Match

Try traditional with a twist by mixing composite posts with contemporary aluminum rails and balusters. This stylish change of pace, with Vintage Lantern posts from the Transcend collection mix with Trex Signature® Charcoal Black rails and balusters, keeps the view in view.

3. Glass Gorgeous

Why obstruct what inspires? Trex Signature® glass railings offer the ideal pairing of safety and scenery for homes with breathtaking views like this Evergreen, Colorado home.

4. Mesh Magic

Mesh infills lend an industrial touch to this bronze aluminum railing, letting the California coast sparkle. The powder-coated panels are made from six-gauge steel making it super durable and resistant to corrosion.

5. Curve It

Railings don’t need to be linear. Signature railings can easily be curved to provide visual interest while maintaining their strong safety qualities. Here a Signature® mesh rail in Charcoal Black adds a bit of whimsey and dimension to this grand outdoor living space. 

6. Simply Stunning

Views like this deserve a railing that complements rather than competes. White Signature Aluminum Railings with lighted posts and gates create a simple yet stunning accent that adds form and function to this lakeside dock.

7. Southwest Industrial Style

Aluminum Rod Rail from the Trex Signature collection offers a ranch-like design paired with contemporary colors. The result? A sophisticated, southwest design that is sure to stand out from the crowd.

8. Bold Black

Let your bold side show with a monochromatic look. This all-black railing features Transcend composite rails, posts and balusters which complement the brown Trex composite decking for a show-stopping space.

9. Tree House

Sleek aluminum railing and composite boards combine for the safety and style needed to create this modern-day tree house deck. Crossover posts allow for a continuous top rail which runs into Trex fascia boards used to build a privacy wall.

10. Rooftop Safety

If you’re fortunate enough to have a rooftop deck, don’t block the view with clunky railing. Sleek, yet strong, Signature aluminum railing gives you the safety needed in this second-story structure while the glass preserves the sights beyond.

11. Light Up

No lights were spared in the making of this deck! Post cap lights on the Classic White Transcend composite posts and riser lights along the stairs and fascia allow this family to enjoy their deck long after the sun goes down.  

12. Cozy Curves

Think outside the box - and rectangle - with curved rails and decking. Add a special touch, like this circular built-in seating made from Trex deck boards, and you have the perfect spot for entertaining.

13. Wow Is Right

When a railing is required by code, but you want to keep an open and airy view, try Signature Rod Rail in Charcoal Black. This contemporary stunner simply disappears into the Utah Mountain range, helped by our minimalist aluminum collection.

14. Understated Splendor

Featured on the HGTV® Dream Home 2024, this subtle Signature® railing in Charcoal Black fades into the background so the stunning surroundings can take center stage.

15. Simple Gets It Done

Trex’s Select railing comes in any color you want as long as it’s white. But when white gets the job done, why look any further? This lakeside cabin retains its charm with the neutral tones of pristine grey decking and the Classic White railing with round, black aluminum balusters. Simple, easy and perfect.