Which top railing options are best suited for my project?
Selecting materials and colors for a deck or fencing project can be fun; however having a large variety of options can also make our choices more difficult. As with any home improvement project, when selecting top rails we should always consider what kind of look and feel we are trying to create.
When it comes to top railing options, some of the most common topics for questions from our customers are about:
Colors- Metallic finishes and dark colors like charcoal and black are widely used for modern color selections. Muted colors, earth tones, and bare mill finishes will be more commonly found on coastal applications and landscapes. White is a good choice for matching interior trim but should be used sparingly for exteriors.
Size- Minimalist designs are very popular and many times the leanest top rail profiles are the most desirable. Consumers and contractors alike need to weigh the pros and cons of going thin with top railings. Cable railings need rigid frames to withstand cable tension. Consider using steel members if you want thinner top rails. When using wood timbers, try to stay with hardwood species at a minimum thickness of 1.5″.
Material Choices- At SDCR we offer a broad selection of top railing materials to include: aluminum, steel, stainless steel, and a variety of wood types. In general, steel railings will provide a more industrial or modern look. Wood can assert a more neutral feel which will offer versatility when dealing with an older home.
Price Points- Wood will almost always be less expensive than steel when it comes to top railing choices. For a DIY installer, wood products will also be more forgiving and require fewer tools. Steel or stainless steel top rails will typically be stronger and more durable, but they also carry a higher price point. Our company offers modular parts for both wooden and steel top railing options. We are happy to discuss these options in order to find you the best most cost effective solution for your project.
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