How to Renovate a Deck with Railing and Accessory Upgrades
Now that warm weather has arrived, you’ll be outside more; your outdoor space should be an area that you truly enjoy and are proud to show off to guests. You may not need a complete deck remodel to achieve that level of perfection. With some smart deck upgrades you can create an upscale look for less.
Start by looking at the deck railing itself. More than just a safety feature, the railing is one of the most prominent design elements of any deck, and changing it is a cost-effective way to make an eye-catching statement.
Remember, your railing doesn’t have to match your current deck material. If you have a wood deck that doesn’t necessarily mean you need wood railings. Think outside the box and blend different colors and materials - such as aluminum, glass and composite - for a complementary look that increases the aesthetic appeal of the entire house.
Aluminum railings are increasingly popular because they allow homeowners to introduce curves and angles to their deck design. Durable yet lightweight, aluminum won’t rot or corrode, making it a good choice for the outdoors. One example is our ALX Contemporary Preassembled Railing, which is available in a variety of colors and powder-coated to weather the elements. And to top things off, our ALX Contemporary Railing is backed by a lifetime limited warranty on manufacturing defects, 25-year removal & replacement and a 10-year limited salt/coastal water applications warranty.
While you’re researching railings, it’s wise to also look at balusters – the railing spindles – and decide what styles you like best. You can mix and match with your railing materials to get a one-of-a-kind look. Metal and aluminum balusters are popular and come in many shapes, styles, colors and sizes.
To create a dramatic appearance, consider adding a design to deck posts. Decorative postcovers enhance the personality of your deck by providing a 
stone pillar appearance to the entire length of each post. Deckorators cast stone postcovers fit over standard 4-by-4 or 6-by-6 wood posts corners of deck railing, and provide a realistic appearance of authentic stone, giving decks an upscale look at a fraction of the cost.
Finalize your deck upgrades with some decorative elements. Deck railing accessories can add the perfect stylish touch to any outdoor space. Decorative post caps, for example, install quickly and easily, changing the look of any railing to suit your design tastes. Ornamental post caps come in glass, metal, wood and planter styles. Some even feature low-voltage Recessed Lighting that provides a beautiful ambiance after the sun sets.
Some simple changes to your current deck structure can take it from drab to fab without the cost of a complete remodel. We recommend using ProWood®professional grade treated lumber when building the understructure for your deck. ProWood pressure-treated lumber is made for ground-contact and backed by a lifetime limited warranty against termite infestation and rot. Explore your options today to create a deck you’ll enjoy for many seasons to come.
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