Your deck should be a backyard sanctuary, but a poorly planned or situated deck can be a source of endless frustration for homeowners. Short of tearing it down and rebuilding it, however, there are ways to remediate common deck issues. One of the simplest ways to update and transform you deck is to install glass or aluminum handrails.As the deck market has burgeoned, manufacturers have created a vast array of deck rails to choose from. Handrails for your deck now come in a variety of materials, from aluminum to glass to stainless steel cable, and can be included in any new deck design or added onto an existing cedar deck for a fresh, new look. Customized deck rails can help solve a variety of deck problems, including:
Cramped deck. If you’re struggling with a cedar deck that feels too small, cable handrails can give it a more spacious feel. Made of sturdy stainless steel cable and aluminum posts, cable handrails offer a minimalistic design that opens up your deck and allows it to breathe.
Too much wind exposure. Many cedar decks in the Pacific Northwest get blasted with strong gusts that can make spending time outside unpleasant. Glass handrails, made of glass panels held up by aluminum posts, can block those winds without obscuring your view. They're particularly prevalent among coastal homes, as the glass holds up well even under the assault of flying sand.
Plain-looking deck. If your cedar deck looks boring next to your ornate home, aluminum picket handrails can add a touch of class and elegance. They contrast with the wood of your deck and can be customized to match your home's design.
Blocked view. If your standard cedar handrails are getting in the way of an amazing view, try glass or cable handrails instead. Both are virtually invisible when looked at head-on.
As an added bonus, glass, cable and aluminum handrails are practically maintenance free, so you won’t ever have to worry about sanding or staining them.
