Deck Railings, Stairs & Safety Upgrades

Safety First, Style Second

Railings and stairs aren't just decorative features. They're critical safety components that protect your family and guests from falls. If your deck is more than 30 inches off the ground, building codes require railings. Stairs need to be built to specific dimensions with proper support. We install code-compliant railings and stairs throughout Ontario, CA that keep everyone safe while looking great.

Old or damaged railings are a serious hazard. Loose posts, broken balusters, or wobbly handrails can fail when someone leans on them. We see these problems all the time in Ontario homes. Whether you need new railings for a deck you're building or want to upgrade existing ones, we'll make sure everything is rock-solid and meets current safety standards.

Railing Styles to Match Your Deck

Railings have come a long way from basic wood posts and spindles. Here are popular options we install:

• Traditional wood railings - Classic look that matches wood decks perfectly, needs maintenance
• Composite railings - Low maintenance, won't rot or fade, works with any deck material
• Metal railings - Aluminum or steel with powder coating, modern look, very durable
• Glass panel railings - Unobstructed views, contemporary style, easy to clean
• Cable railings - Sleek modern look with thin cables instead of balusters, great sightlines

Each railing type has different maintenance needs, costs, and visual styles. We'll show you samples and discuss the pros and cons so you can choose the right option for your deck and budget.

Stairs That Are Safe and Comfortable

Deck stairs need to be built to precise specifications. Building codes dictate exact measurements for rise and run to ensure stairs are safe and easy to use. Too steep and they're dangerous. Too shallow and they feel awkward. We calculate the perfect dimensions for your deck height and build stairs that feel natural to walk up and down.

All our deck stairs include proper handrails and sturdy support underneath. We use stringers that are sized correctly for the load they'll carry. Treads are secured firmly without bounce or squeak. If your current stairs feel unsafe or just don't work well, we can rebuild them to modern standards. Many older deck stairs don't meet today's codes and should be upgraded for safety.

Upgrading Your Deck for Safety

Building codes have gotten stricter over the years, which is good for safety but means older decks may not meet current standards. Common safety upgrades we perform include adding railings where none exist, replacing under-spaced balusters, installing proper stair handrails, and reinforcing wobbly posts. These upgrades protect you from accidents and from liability if someone gets hurt on your deck.

We also add lighting to stairs and railings for nighttime safety. LED lights built into stair risers or post caps make your deck usable after dark while adding ambiance. If you're planning any deck upgrades, start with a safety inspection. We'll identify code violations and hazards, then prioritize fixes based on safety and budget. For complete deck improvements, check out our repair and restoration services or explore our custom deck design options. Contact us today for a free safety assessment.

Railing and Stair Questions Answered