More than just a code-required element, deck railings have become a defining detail that sets the tone for any deck, patio or balcony. As homeowners dive into summer outdoor home improvement upgrades, one question may keep popping up: “Which type of railing is best for a deck?”

To be honest, it’s about more than just looks. The best type of deck railing is one that is durable, low maintenance and stylish. Because when deck railing starts to deteriorate, it is not just an unattractive sight but a serious safety concern for anyone using the deck. While charming and nostalgic, wood railings have earned a reputation for being high maintenance. Between regular cleaning, sanding, staining and sealing, wood requires serious upkeep. Even with all that effort, wood railings will eventually warp, rot or deteriorate over time. That’s where wood-alternative, weather-resistant deck railing materials like steel and aluminum come in.

So, what's trending in deck railing today and what's here for the long haul? Let's get into it.

Steel railings offer classic style with a modern twist

Steel deck railings continue to retain their place as a design staple with timeless appeal and a touch of modern flair. As an Architectural Digest article on the best deck railing ideas put it, “Simple lines can be fun.” We agree. Steel railings deliver sought-after simple lines while allowing a high degree of versatility that pairs well with contemporary style preferences. For example, horizontal steel railing options are especially popular, helping decks of any size feel larger, brighter and more open.

Check out this project in Nashville, where the contractor tapped into the capabilities of Fe²⁶ Axis horizontal steel railing infill panels from Fortress Building Products to deliver a perfect balance of functionality and style to the bite-sized duplex decks. In application, the sleek lines of the horizontal railing effortlessly framed the cityscape, safely enclosing the two outdoor spaces without hindering the view beyond the edge of each deck. It is safe to say that steel railings are more than just a passing railing trend; they are here to stay.

Customizable aluminum deck railings deliver sleek designs and elevate views

Tough and built-to-last, aluminum deck railings offer a stylish and enduring aesthetic. Most importantly, aluminum deck railing will gracefully sidestep the problematic issues typically associated with moisture absorption in wood railing. Plus, industry-leading aluminum railing systems feature a powder-coated finish for enhanced corrosion resistance, further preserving the integrity of the deck railing and ensuring lasting performance with minimal upkeep. These performance and design benefits seal outdoor aluminum deck railings' spot as an option that will continue to raise the bar in outdoor living design for years to come.

Incredibly versatile, select aluminum deck railing systems can be paired with glass infill panels or balusters to frame the scenes beyond the edges of the deck. For example, homeowners can turn to Al¹³ HOME™ aluminum railing by Fortress Building Products with Al¹³ HOME™ Pure View® full glass panels or Al¹³ HOME™ Pure View®  glass balusters to achieve unobstructed views. The transparent nature of the glass facilitates clear sightlines beyond the edge of the deck and a more seamless indoor-outdoor living experience.

Steel and aluminum cable deck railing serves up premium weather resistance

Steel and aluminum cable deck railing systems are gaining serious traction in modern outdoor living spaces. And for good reasons. These systems deliver the sleek, minimal sightlines and premium weather resistance that outdoor living spaces demand. A creative design choice, cable railing can often be oriented horizontally or vertically to highlight a deck’s best features without competing for attention.

Unlike difficult-to-install competitor railing systems that require contractors to assemble every single piece, cable railing systems from Fortress Building Products are panelized, which means they are pre-welded and pre-assembled at the factory. In turn, contractors can get the job done quicker. The nature of a panelized option also maximizes system strength and lowers the risk of missing parts, which ultimately contributes to a safer outdoor living space.

Discover on-trend steel and aluminum deck railing products from Fortress Building Products here.