4 Reasons Why Deck Railings Are More than Just an Accessory

BOISE, Idaho - May 13, 2015 - PRLog -- Without railings, a deck is just a flat platform. The addition of rails to the flat decking not only enhances the appearance of the finished structure, but it also adds safety and style. You may also find that your municipal codes related to building supplies require that you install a railing. However, even if a rail isn't required by law, you'll find that it really is an important part of the finished project.

Enhances Safety

Everyone benefits from the safety of installing railings onto your decking. The railings create an obvious perimeter around the edge of the deck. The rails prevent accidental falls and injuries that someone might incur by stumbling off the edge of an unfinished deck. The railings also enhance safety for children or the elderly who spend time enjoying the outdoors on a deck.

Adds to the Style

A deck simply doesn't look finished until the railing is installed. When sorting through a building supplies catalog, you'll see that the railings come in a variety of styles to match the decking. You can have the rails stained at the same time as the deck to ensure that all the pieces are a perfect match to one another. The style of the railing typically compliments the layout of the deck.

Increases Aesthetic Appeal

While the decking itself is flat and has minimal detail, the railing can be created with ornate designs for increased aesthetic appeal. Scroll work, carvings and fine angles can all be carved into the wood rails of a deck. The top portions of the rails can be created in any shape, including hemispheres, cubes or rectangles for additional visual interest. The top of the railing is typically sanded and honed to a highly smooth finish so it is gentle on the hands. The finished result is a shiny top with matte vertical pieces of railing intersecting with the deck boards.

Meets Local Building Codes

Most communities have codes related to building supplies and how tall the rail of a deck must be. Installing deck railings helps to ensure that your new wood deck meets your local building codes. Meeting the local building codes is especially important for your homeowner's insurance and if you try to sell your home.

For more info, be sure to visit http://www.franklinbuildingsupply.com.