Wood
Classic look, lowest cost, needs staining. Typically about $38 to $57 per linear foot.
Rails, guards and stair handrails
Deck Railing Atlanta
A railing should feel solid when someone leans on it. Get sturdy posts and rails in wood, metal, cable or glass.
Call (470) 427-9259
- Solid post connections
- Stair handrails
- Wood, metal, cable or glass
Railing Repair and Replacement
A railing should feel solid when someone leans on it. When it doesn't, the problem is usually at the posts: they were only nailed to the rim, the wood around the bolts has rotted, or there's no blocking behind them.
The builder will check the posts and the frame they attach to before recommending new rails. There's no point putting a new railing on posts that can't hold it.
If the posts have rotted into the frame, the fix may be part of new deck construction rather than a railing swap.
Railing typically costs about $33 to $199 per linear foot, depending on the material. These are typical figures for the area, not quotes.
Choosing a Style
Metal Balusters
Slim aluminum or steel balusters with wood or composite top rails. Typically about $52 to $81 per linear foot.
Composite
Matches composite decking and skips the staining. Typically about $76 to $157 per linear foot.
Cable
Thin stainless cables that keep the view open. Typically about $109 to $166 per linear foot.
Glass
Clear panels for the most open view. Typically about $133 to $199 per linear foot.
Atlanta Deck Railing Installation
What the builder will go over with you:
- Guard height. Residential code generally calls for guards at least 36 inches high on decks more than 30 inches above grade.
- Opening size. Gaps between balusters are kept small enough that a child can't slip through.
- Post attachment. Bolted posts with blocking behind them hold up far better than nailed ones.
- Stair handrails. Stairs need a handrail you can actually grip, not just a flat board.
- Gates. A gate at the top of the stairs helps with kids and pets.
Rail moves when you lean on it? Get it fixed now.
Call (470) 427-9259Questions About Rails and Guards
How tall does a railing need to be?
Residential code generally calls for guards at least 36 inches high on decks more than 30 inches above grade. The builder confirms what applies to your deck.
Can I replace just the railing?
Yes, as long as the posts and rim joist are sound. If they aren't, those get fixed first.
Which style needs the least upkeep?
Metal, composite, cable and glass need much less upkeep than wood, which needs regular staining.
What does new railing cost?
Typically about $33 to $199 per linear foot in the Atlanta area, depending on material.
Make Your Rails Solid Again
Talk to a builder about tightening, repairing or replacing your railing.