Deck Railings, Stairs & Safety Upgrades

Why Railings and Stairs Matter

Railings and stairs are not just aesthetic features. They are critical safety components that protect you and your family from falls and injuries. At BlueCrest Poinciana Decks, we take safety seriously. Every railing and stair system we install meets or exceeds local building codes. We make sure your deck is safe for everyone, from young children to elderly visitors.

In Florida, building codes are strict about railing height, spacing, and strength. Railings must be at least 36 inches high, and the balusters or pickets must be spaced so that a four-inch sphere cannot pass through. These rules exist for good reason. They prevent small children from slipping through the railing and falling. They also ensure that the railing is strong enough to support someone who leans on it or falls against it.

Stairs are another critical safety feature. They need to be the right height and depth to prevent trips and falls. They also need to be well-lit and have sturdy handrails. We have seen too many decks with unsafe stairs built by inexperienced contractors. When you hire us, you can be confident that your stairs are built right.

Beyond safety, railings and stairs also add to the overall look of your deck. A well-designed railing system can elevate the appearance of your entire outdoor space. Whether you want traditional wood balusters, modern metal railings, or sleek glass panels, we can build it for you.

Railing Styles and Materials

We offer a wide range of railing styles and materials to match your deck and your personal taste. The right choice depends on your budget, the style of your home, and how much maintenance you want to do.

Wood Railings

Wood railings are the classic choice. They match wood decks perfectly and can be stained or painted to match your home. We typically use pressure-treated lumber for the posts and top rails, with either wood or metal balusters. Wood railings require regular maintenance, including staining and sealing, but many homeowners love the traditional look.

Composite Railings

Composite railings are low-maintenance and durable. They resist rot, fading, and insect damage, and they never need to be painted or stained. They come in a variety of colors to match your deck. If you have a composite deck, composite railings are the natural choice. They are also a good option for wood decks if you want to reduce maintenance.

Metal Railings

Metal railings are strong, durable, and low-maintenance. Aluminum railings are lightweight and rust-resistant, making them perfect for Florida. Steel railings are even stronger and can be powder-coated in any color. Metal railings often feature glass or cable infill panels, which give you an unobstructed view of your yard.

Cable Railings

Cable railings are a modern, minimalist option that provides safety without blocking your view. Stainless steel cables run horizontally between metal or wood posts. This style is popular with homeowners who have nice views and do not want a traditional railing to obstruct them. Cable railings require regular tensioning to stay safe, but they look fantastic.

Glass Railings

Glass railings offer the ultimate in visibility. Tempered glass panels are held in place by metal or wood posts, giving you a completely unobstructed view. Glass railings are more expensive than other options, but they create a sleek, modern look that is perfect for high-end homes. They do require regular cleaning to keep them looking clear and streak-free.

Stairs and Steps

Stairs are one of the most used parts of your deck, and they need to be built right. We follow strict building codes to make sure your stairs are safe and comfortable to use. The rise and run of each step must be consistent, and the stairs must have sturdy handrails if they have more than three steps.

We build stairs using the same materials as your deck, whether that is wood, composite, or a combination. We can also add non-slip treads to make your stairs safer in wet weather. If you have a tall deck, we can build a landing partway down to break up the stairs and make them less intimidating.

Common Stair Configurations:

• Straight stairs that lead directly from the deck to the ground
• L-shaped stairs with a landing that turns 90 degrees
• U-shaped stairs with two flights and a landing
• Cascading stairs that lead to multiple levels or paths
• Wide stairs that double as seating or a gathering space

We also add handrails to all stairs that require them. Handrails must be between 34 and 38 inches high and must be graspable. We make sure your handrails are comfortable to hold and securely attached. If you need custom deck design services, we can create unique stair configurations that fit your property.

Safety Upgrades

If you have an older deck, it might not meet current building codes. Codes have gotten stricter over the years, especially when it comes to railings and stairs. If your deck was built more than 10 or 15 years ago, there is a good chance it does not meet today's standards. We offer safety upgrades to bring your deck up to code and make it safer for your family.

Common safety upgrades include replacing old railings with taller, stronger ones, adding handrails to stairs, and improving lighting. We can also add non-slip surfaces to stairs and deck boards to reduce the risk of falls. If your deck is high off the ground, we can install a gate at the top of the stairs to keep young children from wandering out unsupervised.

Another important upgrade is improving the lighting on your deck. Good lighting makes your deck safer at night and extends the hours you can use it. We install low-voltage LED lights on stairs, railings, and posts. These lights are energy-efficient and long-lasting. They also add ambiance and make your deck more inviting after dark.

If you are concerned about the safety of your deck, we offer free inspections. We will come out, look at your deck, and let you know if there are any issues. If repairs are needed, we can handle that too. Check out our deck repair and restoration services for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions