Aluminum Deck Rails Types And Options

Aluminum deck rails are stronger than wooden rails, they won't stain or rust, they don't need paint. They are also easy to install and they last for a long time without maintenance. You can find them in several styles, color, shapes and prices. Aluminum deck rails can be used for many different purposes: safety fences, handicap railings for stairways and ramps, step rails and hand rails, swimming pool stairs and fences, railings for balconies and decks.

Why Aluminum Decks?

There are several reasons why you should prefer aluminum deck rails to other rail types:

  • Cheap and easy maintenance – These rails don't need painting and are easy to clean because of their smooth surface.
  • These rails are very durable and offer a great deal of safety for you and your family.
  • As opposed to ordinary decks that only come in brown tones, you can find aluminum deck rails in a huge variety of styles, colors and prices that are available on the market today. You can even order any custom designs from different manufacturers.
  • They are long lasting and do not rot of tarnish. You won't need to worry about corrosion.
  • Installing aluminum deck rails is easy and fun, you can do it yourself. Sometimes your deck railing kit includes all the required supplies. This helps to cut the cost of the installation even further.

How To Install

You can update the look and feel of your deck in a very easy and inexpensive way by installing new aluminum deck rails. All you need for the installment is some free time and some simple tools.

Here are the instructions you need to follow:

  • Calculate the number of rails you need for your decking area. Keep in mind that you need to buy the right amount of fittings and brackets along with the rails. This is very important as you cannot finish installing your aluminum deck rails without them. Measure your deck carefully and figure out what the distance between the rails is going to be. 4 inch distance is usually considered optimal. Then you can divide your deck length to this distance to get the right amount of rails needed.
  • Start to fit your railings by attaching plugs and fitting them to both the bottom and the top rails, keeping a 4 inch distance between them. Use a drill to screw the brackets into the posts keeping the correct height. Secure the parts before proceeding. Screw the starting post onto the decking by the wall and then install the rest of the posts at the right distance.
  • Place the first rail into the bottom bracket on all of the rail posts and fit the plugs against the bracket. Then the top rail needs to be lowered and put on the plugs. This allows you to install the top holes and screw them together.
  • When everything is in place, screw the posts to the railings. All you have to do now is to tighten all the screws.
  • If there is a chance of rain on your deck or balcony, you can drill a few holes to the bottom parts of your railing. This enables rainwater to flow out through them. Now you can decorate your new aluminum deck rails or even add paint if you like.



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