Alternatives to Wood Railings

Steel or Aluminum Railing

Using steel railing in place of wood railing indoors gives homeowners a railing that will last for years without requiring any maintenance. Steel railing can be painted any color to match the decor of its location. For exterior projects, galvanized steel railing will not rust when exposed to the elements. Aluminum railing is another material that holds up for years in outdoor projects, as it is rust resistant and strong.

Vinyl railing is often a popular alternative to wood railing because installation of vinyl railing is less complicated, making it possible for most homeowners to install vinyl railing themselves. Vinyl railing is built from pre-formed PVC, making it strong and durable. Vinyl railing will last longer than wood railing and requires little to no maintenance. Many companies that manufacture vinyl railing even offer a lifetime warranty. Wood can split, weaken and even rot over time.

High-density polyethylene railing is similar in look to wood railing. With a 50-year warranty against mold, cracking, staining, termites and splinters, it makes an appealing alternative to wood railing. High-density polyethylene railing is installed with screws, nails and fasteners, much like wood railing. Compared to wood railing, screws and nails have a 30 percent better retention in high-density polyethylene railing. High-density polyethylene railing is virtually maintenance free and holds up well inside and outside of the home.

Composite railing, made of plastic mixed with wood fibers, is one of the newest alternatives to wood railing. Recycled plastic is often used in composite decking, making it an earth-friendly choice for railing projects. Composite railing has the look of wood railing but is resistant to insects, splitting, rotting and warping. Installation of composite railing can be more difficult than installation of wood railing and is normally done with a hidden screw system to prevent rust stains appearing around the screws.