According to a survey conducted by Better Homes and Gardens, having a home customized to their personal tastes and needs is a top priority for nearly 2/3 of millennial homeowners. The survey results also make it clear that this demand for personalization extends not only to the inside of the home, but to our outdoor living spaces as well.

Against this backdrop, it makes sense that many are turning their attention to their deck, patio or balcony railing. But railing customization doesn’t need to be limited to color and infill options (although we have plenty of ideas up our sleeve). Some design-savvy homeowners are customizing their outdoor aluminum railing with lighting and we’re loving it! The right combination of lighting can take any space from ordinary to a completely customized and usable outdoor living zone that feels more like a direct extension of the home. Plus, strategically placed lights also increase the deck, patio or balcony’s safety factor, ensuring that family and friends safely navigate the area after the sun goes down.

 Thinking about leaning into the aluminum railing lighting trend? Here's how to go about it.

Add LED post lights to aluminum railings and illuminate floor area

Consider vertical post lights that cast a subtle glow. Installed directly on aluminum railing posts, these fixtures are designed with a small, unobtrusive casing that directs light downward. A well-illuminated deck (not the in-your-face kind) makes it easier for deck users to navigate in the dark and reduces the risk of collisions around high-traffic areas near doors and outdoor furniture. Experiment with the height to achieve different effects- install them higher up on the aluminum railing to illuminate a larger surface area and cast a more expansive glow. Alternatively, place them closer to the ground to concentrate the light on a smaller, more intimate area.

Aluminum railings stand out with stylish post-caps

Accessorize your aluminum railing post caps with LED lights. Post cap lights are add-on lighting accessories that can be installed underneath the rim of an aluminum railing post cap or wrapped around the sides to cast a soft, inviting glow. This type of lighting not only enhances the ambience of your outdoor space but also serves a practical purpose by defining the perimeter of the deck, patio or balcony. To add more personality, consider alternating between lit and non-lit post caps on your aluminum railing posts. This adds visual interest and allows you to customize the lighting scheme to suit your personal style or intended purpose for the space.

LED universal lights under the top rail highlights its modern appeal

For those who love adding accent lights (one of Better Homes & Garden’s top trends this year), dress up the top rails with LED universal lights. This barely-there lighting option can be placed underneath the railing panel, keeping the device hidden while beautifully illuminating your railing and the floor area. Indirect illumination is particularly useful on aluminum railings that follow the deck stairs, providing functional lighting that allows deck users to walk up and down the stairs safely without being blinded.

Light up your aluminum railings with personalization

Already daydreaming about what lights to pair with your aluminum railing? Fortress Building Products can light the way. We offer a complete line of post caps, base covers and LED lighting accessories designed for easy integration with an aluminum railing system.