Your deck railing does more than protect people from falling — it sets the tone for your entire outdoor space. Whether you’re replacing an old railing or planning a new build, choosing the right railing material is one of the most important design and safety decisions you’ll make.
Each option — wood, glass, aluminum, and composite — brings its own personality, benefits, and maintenance demands. The key is picking the one that best suits your deck’s design, your lifestyle, and Ontario’s unique climate.
At XP Decking, we’ve helped hundreds of Newmarket homeowners select and install railings that blend safety, durability, and curb appeal. In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each railing material so you can make a confident choice.
Why Your Railing Choice Matters
A deck railing isn’t just decorative — it’s required by law for elevated decks. Ontario’s Building Code mandates:
Decks over 24 inches (60 cm) require a railing
Railing height must be 36 or 42 inches, depending on deck height
Must withstand specific force loads for safety
Your railing also affects:
Visual openness or privacy
Wind protection
Lighting placement
Long-term maintenance needs
Home value and design consistency
Making the right choice at the start avoids costly changes later and ensures a finished look that complements your home.
Wood Railings: Natural and Traditional
Appearance: Wood railings offer a classic, timeless appeal. Whether it’s pressure-treated lumber or cedar, wood adds warmth and pairs beautifully with traditional or rustic home styles.
Cost: Wood is generally the most budget-friendly option upfront, especially pressure-treated variants.
Maintenance: High. Wood railings must be regularly:
Stained or sealed every 1–3 years
Checked for splinters, cracks, rot, and loose screws
Durability: Vulnerable to rot, mildew, and insect damage if not well maintained. Cedar resists decay better but still needs attention.
Best For:
Homeowners who enjoy natural materials
Cottage-style or older homes
DIYers comfortable with ongoing upkeep
Glass Railings: Clean, Clear, and High-End
Appearance: Glass railings offer unobstructed views and modern aesthetics. They’re especially popular on decks overlooking scenic backyards, pools, or open space.
Cost: Premium. Expect higher costs for both materials and installation. Framed glass is more budget-friendly than fully frameless styles.
Maintenance:
Needs frequent cleaning to remove water spots and fingerprints
Windex and soft cloth keep panels sparkling
Durability:
Made from tempered safety glass that won’t shatter easily
Often combined with aluminum or stainless-steel frames for strength
Best For:
Modern or high-end homes
Scenic locations where views are a priority
Homeowners seeking a dramatic, upscale look
Glass railings can also be paired with under-rail deck lighting for a luxurious nighttime effect.
Aluminum Railings: Strong, Sleek, and Low-Maintenance
Appearance: Clean, simple lines with powder-coated finishes in black, bronze, white, or custom colours. Aluminum works well in both contemporary and transitional homes.
Cost: Mid-range. More expensive than wood, but less than high-end glass or custom composite systems.
Maintenance: Very low. Aluminum won’t rust, peel, or warp. Just rinse off occasionally.
Durability:
Powder coating resists UV fading and moisture damage
Ideal for harsh Canadian winters
Best For:
Homeowners wanting a long-lasting solution
Anyone seeking minimal upkeep
Tight budgets that still want modern style
Aluminum is a smart choice for deck replacements where the goal is to eliminate future maintenance headaches.
Composite Railings: Coordinated and Contemporary
Appearance: Designed to match composite decking systems. Composite railings look high-end, with wood grain textures and colour variety.
Cost: Mid-high, depending on the brand and design (some systems include metal internal reinforcements).
Maintenance:
Low maintenance like aluminum
Clean with soap and water
No sanding, staining, or sealing needed
Durability:
Won’t splinter, rot, or fade
UV- and moisture-resistant, great for exposed decks
Best For:
Composite deck owners seeking a unified look
Families wanting splinter-free safety for kids and pets
Homeowners wanting low-maintenance with premium aesthetics
Composite railings often integrate seamlessly with custom deck design and installation, making them a preferred choice for new builds.
What to Consider Before Choosing
Before you choose, ask yourself:
1. What’s My Home’s Style?
Your railing should match the architecture and finish of your home. For example, glass suits modern designs, while wood looks better on craftsman or rustic homes.
2. What’s My Budget?
Wood: $$
Aluminum: $$$
Composite: $$$$
Glass: $$$$–$$$$$
Factor in long-term maintenance when comparing costs.
3. How Much Maintenance Am I Willing to Do?
Wood requires annual effort. Composite, aluminum, and glass are more hands-off.
4. Is My View Important?
If your deck faces trees, a garden, or open space, glass or aluminum railings won’t block the view like wood or composite might.
5. Do I Have Pets or Small Children?
Closed systems like composite and framed glass provide added safety. Aluminum with narrow pickets also works well for pet containment.
XP Decking’s Custom Railing Installation
When you work with XP Decking, you’re not just getting a railing — you’re getting a design partner who takes care of:
Railing selection that fits your space and lifestyle
Measurement and layout to meet Ontario’s building code
Blending the railing with steps, built-in benches, or planters
Optional lighting installation for added safety and style
Code-compliant installation with all necessary permits
We work with the best materials and offer custom solutions for every kind of deck — new or existing. Our railing installations are built to last, and we’ll help you make the right choice based on durability, aesthetics, and use.
FAQs About Deck Railings in Ontario
Q: Do I need a railing if my deck is low to the ground?
Ontario requires railings on decks higher than 24 inches. For anything under that, it’s optional — but still a good safety choice, especially with kids or pets.
Q: Can I mix railing styles on one deck?
Absolutely. Many homeowners use glass on the front for views and composite or aluminum on the sides for privacy.
Q: What’s the safest railing for families with young children?
Closed-panel systems like framed glass or composite are ideal. No gaps for little ones to squeeze through.
Q: How long does railing installation take?
1–3 days on average, depending on size and complexity. Our team completes most installs quickly and cleanly.
Q: Do railings come with warranties?
Yes. Most of our railing systems include 20–25 year manufacturer warranties.
Final Thoughts: Choose Smart, Build Strong
Deck railings are more than a finishing touch — they’re a big part of your deck’s safety, longevity, and overall look. Taking the time to choose the right one pays off for years to come.
Whether you’re replacing an outdated system or starting from scratch, XP Decking offers expert advice and professional railing and bench installation throughout Newmarket and York Region. We’ll help you find a railing that fits your deck, your home, and your lifestyle.
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