Deck Railings, Stairs & Safety Upgrades

Safety Is Not Optional

Railings and stairs aren't just about looks. They're critical safety features that protect your family and guests from falls and injuries. If your deck is more than 30 inches off the ground, building codes require railings. And those railings need to meet specific requirements for height, spacing, and strength.

Here in Brownsville, TX, we see older decks with railings that don't meet current codes. Wobbly posts, balusters spaced too far apart, or rails at the wrong height are common problems. If you have kids or elderly family members, outdated railings are a serious risk. The good news is that upgrading your railings and stairs doesn't have to mean replacing your entire deck. We can install new safety features on existing decks to bring them up to code and give you peace of mind.

Railing Styles to Match Your Deck

Safety doesn't mean sacrificing style. Modern deck railings come in lots of options that combine security with great looks. Here are the most popular choices for Brownsville homeowners:

• •Wood railings: Traditional look that matches wood decks perfectly. Can be painted or stained any color.
• •Composite railings: Low-maintenance option in various colors. Never needs painting or staining.
• •Metal railings: Sleek, modern appearance with aluminum or steel. Very durable and weather-resistant.
• •Glass panel railings: Contemporary style that preserves your view. Great for decks with scenery.
• •Cable railings: Minimalist design with thin steel cables. Popular for modern homes.

We'll show you samples and photos so you can pick the style that fits your home's architecture and your personal taste. Whether you're building a new wood deck or upgrading an existing one, we can design railings that look perfect.

Stairs That Are Safe and Easy to Use

Deck stairs need to be built right. Uneven steps, improper rise and run, or missing handrails create tripping hazards. Building codes specify exact measurements for stair dimensions, and for good reason. Stairs that don't follow these standards are accidents waiting to happen.

We build deck stairs to code every single time. That means consistent step height and depth, proper landing areas, secure handrails, and adequate width for safe passage. We also make sure the stairs are anchored solidly to both the deck and the ground so they don't shift or settle over time.

If your existing stairs are rickety, uneven, or just feel unsafe, we can replace them with new stairs that meet current building standards. We can also add or relocate stairs to create better access to your deck from different areas of your yard. And of course, we make sure they match your deck's style and finish perfectly.

Additional Safety Features We Can Add

Beyond basic railings and stairs, there are other safety upgrades worth considering:

LED lighting in stair risers and along railings improves visibility at night and prevents trips and falls. Non-slip stair treads add traction in wet conditions. Gates at the top of stairs keep small children from accessing stairs unsupervised. Post caps protect the tops of posts from water damage and provide finished look. Corner and end bumpers on railings prevent injuries from sharp edges. These small additions make your deck safer and more functional for everyday use.

Railing and Stair FAQs