Deck Railings, Stairs & Safety Upgrades
Enhance your deck's safety and style with professional railing and stair installation.
Why Railings and Stairs Matter More Than You Think
Railings and stairs aren't just decorative elements. They're critical safety features that protect you, your family, and your guests from falls and injuries. A wobbly railing or uneven stairs can turn your relaxing deck into a liability. That's why we take these components seriously and build them to exceed code requirements, not just meet them.
Many older decks in Glendale have railings that don't meet current building codes. Code requirements have gotten stricter over the years because they're based on real safety data. If your deck is more than 30 inches above ground, it needs railings. Those railings must be at least 36 inches high, with balusters spaced no more than 4 inches apart to prevent children from slipping through. If your current railings don't meet these standards, it's time for an upgrade.
Beyond safety, railings and stairs significantly impact how your deck looks. They're often the first thing people notice. Upgrading from basic wood railings to cable rail systems, glass panels, or decorative metal balusters can completely transform your deck's appearance. It's one of the most cost-effective ways to make your outdoor space look modern and high-end without rebuilding the entire deck.
Railing Styles That Fit Your Home and Budget
Your railing choice should complement your home's architecture and your personal style. We offer a wide range of options from traditional to contemporary, all built to meet or exceed local safety codes.
Popular Railing Options:
- •Wood Railings: Classic look that matches wood decks perfectly. Available in many baluster styles from simple vertical posts to decorative turned spindles.
- •Composite Railings: Low-maintenance option that pairs well with composite decking. Available in multiple colors and won't rot, warp, or need regular painting.
- •Aluminum Railings: Durable and virtually maintenance-free with a sleek modern look. Won't rust in our climate and comes in various colors and styles.
- •Cable Railings: Contemporary option with thin stainless steel cables that maximize your view while providing safety. Perfect for decks with scenic views.
- •Glass Panel Railings: Premium choice that creates an unobstructed view and a sophisticated look. Glass panels are tempered for safety and easy to clean.
We can also mix materials for a custom look. For example, many homeowners choose composite or wood top rails with aluminum or cable balusters. This gives you the warmth of wood where you touch the railing with the low maintenance and clean lines of metal below. We'll show you samples and discuss what works best for your specific deck and home style.
Stairs That Are Safe, Functional, and Attractive
Your deck stairs need to be comfortable to use and safe for everyone, from young children to elderly guests. Building codes specify exact requirements for stair dimensions, and there's good reason for these rules. Stairs that are too steep, too shallow, or inconsistent in their dimensions create trip hazards.
We build stairs with proper tread depth and riser height based on your deck's elevation. Each step should feel natural and consistent. We install sturdy handrails that are easy to grip and positioned at the correct height. For taller decks, we often include intermediate landings to break up long stair runs and provide resting points.
Stair placement is also important. We work with your yard's layout to position stairs where they make the most sense for traffic flow. Multiple stair locations can make your deck more accessible and functional, especially for larger decks or decks that wrap around your house.
Just like railings, stairs can match your deck material and style. We can build composite stairs that require minimal maintenance, or traditional wood stairs with decorative stringers that add architectural interest. We can also add lighting to stair treads and risers for safety and ambiance after dark.
Additional Safety Enhancements Worth Considering
Beyond basic railings and stairs, there are several upgrades that can make your deck even safer and more enjoyable to use at night or in wet conditions.
LED lighting integrated into railings, stairs, and deck surfaces dramatically improves safety after sunset. Post cap lights illuminate the deck perimeter, while step lights make stairs visible in the dark. Under-rail lighting creates a pleasant ambiance without being too bright. Low-voltage LED systems are energy efficient and long-lasting.
If your deck gets slippery when wet, we can add non-slip surfaces to high-traffic areas and stairs. These can be applied strips, textured coatings, or specially grooved deck boards that provide better traction. This is especially important around pools or in areas that stay shaded and don't dry quickly. For complete outdoor comfort, consider adding a shade structure or pergola to protect from sun and light rain.