The Role of Railings in Enhancing Deck Safety

1. Preventing Falls and Injuries

The number one role of a deck railing is to protect people from falling—especially children, elderly family members, and guests.

• Required by building codes for decks over 24″ high
• Helps define boundaries for safe use
• Provides support for stairs and transitions
• Falls from elevated decks can be serious—railings dramatically reduce that risk.

Appearance and Customization

Both materials can be beautifully customized.

• Available in a variety of styles, finishes, and ornamental designs
• Powder-coated options protect against corrosion and enhance color retention

Steel may offer a more traditional or industrial look, while aluminum is popular for sleek, modern, or minimalist designs.

Verdict: Tie. Both materials are highly customizable—just depends on the look you want.

2. Meeting Local Building Codes

Every municipality has safety standards for deck railings, including:

• Minimum height (usually 36″–42″)
• Maximum spacing between balusters (typically 4″)
• Structural load requirements for strength

We design and install all railings to meet or exceed Toronto building code requirements.

3. Supporting Stair Safety

Stairs are high-risk areas where people often need support:

• Handrails provide grip and stability
• Guardrails prevent falls from stair edges
• Continuous railings help guide movement safely

Stair railings are especially important during rain, snow, or icy weather.

4. Durable Materials That Last

Wood railings can rot, warp, or splinter over time—metal railings offer long-lasting safety:

• Powder-coated steel or aluminum resists rust
• Welded joints provide unmatched strength
• Minimal maintenance required over the years

5. Custom Designs for Function & Beauty

Safety doesn’t mean sacrificing style. Our custom railings come in:

• Ornamental wrought iron with scrollwork
• Sleek, modern powder-coated designs
• Glass panels, cable rail, or mixed materials

Every railing is tailored to match your deck’s architecture and your personal taste.

Enhance Your Deck With Safe, Stunning Railings

Whether you’re building a new deck or updating an existing one, don’t overlook the importance of high-quality railings. At Art Metal, we combine expert craftsmanship with code-compliant safety features to create beautiful, lasting results.