Deck Railings, Stairs & Safety Upgrades

Modern Railing Systems We Install

Railing technology has advanced significantly in recent years. You're no longer limited to basic wood pickets or plain metal balusters. Here are the most popular options we install:

• •Cable Railing: Sleek horizontal cables that maintain views while meeting code requirements
• •Glass Panel Systems: Frameless glass panels that provide unobstructed views and wind protection
• •Composite Railings: Low-maintenance systems that match composite decking materials
• •Aluminum Railings: Powder-coated metal that never needs painting and comes in multiple colors
• •Traditional Wood: Classic painted or stained wood railings with various baluster designs
• •Mixed Materials: Combinations like wood posts with metal balusters for a custom look

Your choice depends on your style preferences, maintenance tolerance, and budget. Cable and glass systems cost more upfront but require almost no maintenance. Wood railings are more affordable initially but need periodic staining. We bring samples to your home so you can see how different options look with your existing deck in Norwalk.

Safety Codes and Why They Matter

Connecticut building codes specify exact requirements for deck railings and stairs. These aren't arbitrary rules. They're based on decades of safety data about what prevents falls and injuries.

Railings must be at least 36 inches high, and balusters can't be spaced more than 4 inches apart. This prevents small children from slipping through. Stair railings need to be grippable, and the handrail height must be between 34 and 38 inches. Stair treads and risers must be consistent dimensions so people don't trip.

Many older decks don't meet these standards. If your deck was built 15 or 20 years ago, there's a good chance the railings are too short or the baluster spacing is too wide. We can upgrade your railings to current code as a standalone project or as part of a larger deck repair and restoration. This makes your deck safer and removes liability concerns if you ever sell your home.

Better Stairs Make a Huge Difference

Deck stairs take more abuse than any other part of your deck. They're also the most common place for trips and falls. We rebuild stairs with proper rise and run dimensions, add sturdy handrails on both sides when needed, and install slip-resistant treads.

Wide stairs make your deck more accessible and inviting. Instead of a narrow 36-inch stairway, consider going 48 or 60 inches wide. The difference in usability is dramatic, especially if you carry things up and down frequently or have mobility concerns.

We also add lighting to stairs whenever possible. LED strips under stair nosings or post-mounted lights at the top and bottom dramatically improve safety at night. These upgrades are surprisingly affordable and make a massive difference in how safely you can navigate your deck after dark. Many homeowners combine stair improvements with composite deck upgrades for a complete transformation.

Frequently Asked Questions