Deck Railings, Stairs & Safety Upgrades

Why Deck Safety Features Matter

Your deck should be a safe place for your family and guests to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Railings and stairs are not just decorative features. They are critical safety components that prevent falls and injuries. In Kokomo, building codes require railings on any deck more than 30 inches above ground level, and for good reason.

We see too many older decks with railings that do not meet current safety standards. Posts that are too far apart, balusters with gaps that are too wide, handrails at the wrong height, these issues put people at risk. Children, elderly family members, and pets are especially vulnerable. Upgrading your deck railings and stairs is one of the smartest investments you can make in your home.

At PlatinumPro Kokomo Deck Builder, safety is never an afterthought. We build every railing system to exceed current building codes. We make sure your stairs are comfortable to use and properly secured. And we help you choose options that provide maximum safety without sacrificing style.

Railing Styles to Match Your Deck

The right railing system completes your deck and ties together your entire outdoor space. You have many options when it comes to materials and styles. Let us walk you through the most popular choices for Kokomo homeowners.

Wood Railings

Traditional wood railings match beautifully with wood decks and offer classic appeal. You can use the same wood as your decking or choose a contrasting species for visual interest. Wood railings can be stained or painted to match your home exterior. They offer endless design possibilities, from simple vertical balusters to decorative patterns.

The main consideration with wood railings is maintenance. Like your deck surface, they need periodic cleaning and refinishing to maintain their appearance and protection. Many homeowners feel the classic look is worth the upkeep.

Composite Railings

Composite railing systems offer the look of wood without the maintenance. They resist moisture, insects, and fading. You will never need to paint or stain composite railings. Just occasional cleaning with soap and water keeps them looking new. Composite railings come in multiple colors to coordinate with your deck and home.

Many composite railing systems include aluminum inserts for added strength. This gives you the best of both worlds: low maintenance composite posts and rails with sturdy metal reinforcement. These systems are popular for composite deck installations.

Metal Railings

Aluminum and steel railings are incredibly durable and require minimal maintenance. Powder-coated aluminum will not rust and never needs painting. Metal railings often have a more contemporary look, though traditional styles are available too. They are also great for maximizing your view since the rails and balusters are typically thinner than wood.

Glass Panel Railings

For the ultimate in unobstructed views, glass panel railings cannot be beat. Tempered glass panels are held by metal or composite frames. They provide safety while maintaining sight lines. Glass railings have a modern, upscale appearance. The panels do need occasional cleaning to look their best, but maintenance is minimal compared to wood.

Professional Deck Stair Construction

Deck stairs need to be comfortable to use and absolutely safe. Poorly built stairs are a major cause of deck accidents. We follow strict standards when building stairs to ensure they are safe for everyone who uses them.

Code-Compliant Construction

Building codes specify exact requirements for stair construction. Riser height, tread depth, and stair width are all regulated for good reason. Consistent stair dimensions prevent trips and falls. We build every set of stairs to code, with all treads the same height and all risers the same depth. Your feet know what to expect with each step, which is critical for safety.

Proper Support and Attachment

Stairs need solid support underneath. We use proper stringers sized for the load they will carry. Stringers are securely attached to the deck frame at the top and rest on solid footings at the bottom. All hardware is rated for structural use and properly installed. You should never feel any wobble or movement when using your stairs.

Handrails and Lighting

Handrails on both sides of stairs provide extra safety and support. They are especially important for older adults or anyone with mobility concerns. We can also incorporate lighting into your stairs and railings to improve visibility at night. LED stair lights are energy-efficient and add both safety and ambiance to your deck.

Additional Safety Upgrades for Your Deck

Beyond railings and stairs, there are other safety features you might want to consider for your deck. These upgrades can prevent accidents and make your deck more comfortable and functional.

Deck Lighting

Good lighting prevents trips and falls after dark. It also extends the usable hours of your deck. We can install post cap lights, recessed step lights, and under-rail lighting. Modern LED options are energy-efficient and last for years. Solar-powered lights are another option that requires no wiring.

Non-Slip Surfaces

Wet decks can be slippery. If this is a concern, we can use textured decking materials or apply non-slip coatings to provide better traction. Stair treads with non-slip surfaces are especially important. These simple additions significantly reduce the risk of slips and falls.

Gates and Barriers

If you have young children or pets, deck gates add an extra layer of protection. We can install self-closing gates at the top of stairs to prevent unsupervised access. Gates can match your railing system for a cohesive look while providing peace of mind.

Replacing Old Railings and Stairs

Maybe you already have a deck but the railings are outdated or unsafe. Maybe your stairs feel unstable or do not meet current codes. We can replace just the railings and stairs while keeping your existing deck. This is a cost-effective way to improve safety and update the look of your outdoor space.

During replacement, we inspect the deck structure to ensure it is still sound. We make sure new railings are properly attached to solid framing. If we find any issues during the replacement process, we address them right away. You end up with railings and stairs that are not only beautiful but also secure and code-compliant.

Upgrading from an old wood railing system to low-maintenance composite or metal can dramatically reduce your deck upkeep. You get improved safety, better appearance, and less work. For many homeowners dealing with ongoing deck maintenance and repairs, new railings are a game-changer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Deck Railings and Stairs