Trex Railing Ideas

With the sun starting to peek out more and temps slowly rising, it’s time to think about our decks. You can enjoy activities outside and the weather anywhere, but a deck is often the best place. From optimal views and soaking up the sunlight to making an enclave for reading or working, we’ll help you design your dream deck. At Trex, we think about deck railings almost as much as decks. After all, the railings are an integral part of your deck.

Trex has three iterations of railings – all complementary to our decks. The Select Railings are simple, durable, clean, and have a 25-year warranty. Though they’re available in limited colors, they’re the perfect look for keeping your deck safe and attractive. Trex Transcend Railings are available in a wide variety of colors and materials. This makes it one of the most versatile choices for your railing style. Lastly, the Trex Signature Railings, a modern and relatively new railing option, will add beauty and sophistication to your deck and outdoor living.

We’ll look at some ideas for your deck railings. As a necessary part of your deck, railings can be anything from straightforward and natural to contemporary and creative. Let’s check out some ideas and pairings that you and your family and friends will find both pleasing and functional.

15 Trex Deck Railing Ideas

Besides safely keeping everyone and everything on your deck, deck rails provide another stylish dimension of appearance and depth to your outdoor oasis. Below, I’ve listed some suggestions of what our customers have favored.

1. Composite Deck Railings

One of the absolute best choices with your composite Trex deck is using composite railings. They’re low maintenance, don’t warp or splinter, and require little care. Just an occasional cleaning with soap and water will keep your railings looking bright.

2. Wooden Railings

Old, reliable wooden railings always look great and are a standard rail option for your deck, whatever the wood type. Make sure to use pressure-treated wood when building them, as this will increase their lifespan and make them more mildew-resistant. Sealing the wood is recommended to avoid rot. Wood railings also give you the added benefit of having a wider top rail.

3. Wire or Cable Railings

We love wire railings because of the versatility they have. They can create a modern look for your deck. Generally, the wires run horizontally, and you can DIY some of these railing kits. Most wires are coated in gray or black powder aluminum for protection from the weather’s elements.

4. Rod Rails

Another horizontal railing option is rod rails. Installing this type of deck railing is a distinctive alternative to cable railings. Trex Signature Rod Rails command attention and are an ideal solution for both your yard and deck. Rods are thicker than cable and are often used to create that farmhouse feeling and to section off parts of the yard or deck.

5. Natural Log Railings

Now, this type of railing is a beauty! You can use natural wood, like sticks, branches, etc., to create the balusters in your deck railing. The wood used can vary from pine to cedar to other types – to achieve the style and color you want. This is a stunning look and definitely will get you compliments on your deck.

6. Creatively Curved

What do you do if you have a curved deck? No worries—we can help you choose a railing that will follow every curve and corner. We’ll match not only your deck shape but also the material. Curved railings are eye-catching and are an excellent source of creativity both on and under your deck!

7. Mixed Materials

When you think of deck railings, you might think of metal or aluminum railings. You might think of wood. What about a combination of both? A top and bottom rail are made of wood, and the vertical posts are made of metal. You’ve got two (at least!) wonderful mediums at work here.

8. Glassed In

Speaking of different materials, let’s look at glass. Glass railings are made for views and can also offer some protection from the wind. There are plenty of selections for glass, with tempered glass being a good choice. Remember, do your due diligence and research your glass rail options.  

9. Vintage Style

Are you more of a “farmhouse flair” kind of person? We have a suggestion for you—check out Trex’s many choices from Trex Transcend. We like the classic white post cap and sleeves combined with charcoal black rungs and the addition of a vintage lantern or three gracing the top of several posts.

10. Contemporary Focus

Coming back to the current times, how do you feel about giving your deck a focal point? I know it’s not as big as an outdoor kitchen or as attention-grabbing as a colorful shade sail, but incorporating a pergola into your deck railing set is a huge boon for you and your guests’ enjoyment and comfort. Also, a pergola will provide shade from the sun and is a perfect place for a trellis for climbing plants.

11. Mesh Magic

Let’s look at another modern type of deck railing: mesh. The squared, clean, and sleek look of mesh can give your outdoor space an elevated look. Also, if you can’t decide which you like – vertical or horizontal – then a mesh pattern may be for you! Powder-coated aluminum is the way to go when considering this design. Remember to make sure your railing material is corrosion-resistant.

12. Black Aluminum Baluster Railing

Are you still thinking about a bold look to your deck? Bolster your backyard area with this sharp railing design. If you have steps on your deck, this type of railing is a gorgeous enhancement to also use as your stair railing. This design is classic and timeless and is offered by Trex Transcend.

13. Infill Inquest

Occasionally, homeowners will want something entirely different for their deck railing. Not that vertical and horizontal balusters are anything but typical, but a pleasant design that pays tribute to nature is in order. There is so much out there from which to choose. A wood panel with a sun design, a metal infill designed with a bird pattern, or etched tempered glass are all among the attractive options.  

14. Cocktail Rail

The thickness of the top rail is something to consider. You might want to put plants on it or (our favorite) use it for drinks. Apply a cocktail rail on the top rail. It gives your guests a place to rest their drinks or small plates while conversing. This convenient rail is ideal for those who entertain often and comes in handy for many purposes.

15. Illuminating Ideas

Yes, you can combine your deck railing with lights. This has many possibilities, as you can incorporate lights within your railing, on the railing posts, or add lighting around it. If you have steps, you can also put lights on the risers. A well-lit deck gives a dramatic effect and is also very wise for deck safety.