Deck Railings, Stairs & Safety Upgrades

The railing system you choose affects both safety and aesthetics. Here are the most popular options we install for Waco area decks:

• Wood railings: Classic choice that matches wood decking beautifully. We can build traditional square balusters, decorative turned spindles, or custom designs
• Composite railings: Low-maintenance option that resists weathering and never needs painting. Available in many colors and styles to complement any deck
• Cable railings: Modern, minimalist look with horizontal stainless steel cables that preserve your view while meeting code requirements
• Aluminum railings: Durable, powder-coated metal systems that work well with both wood and composite decks. They come in various colors and styles
• Glass panel railings: Sleek, contemporary option that provides an unobstructed view and modern architectural appeal

Each material has different maintenance requirements, costs, and visual characteristics. We'll show you examples and help you pick the option that fits your style, budget, and how much maintenance you want to do.

Building codes exist for good reason, and they're especially important when it comes to railings and stairs. Here's what current codes require in Waco, and what we make sure every installation includes:

Railings are required on any deck that's more than 30 inches above the ground. The top rail must be 36 to 42 inches high, and the space between balusters can't be more than 4 inches. This prevents small children from squeezing through or getting their heads stuck. Posts must be strong enough to withstand 200 pounds of force in any direction.

Stairs have their own requirements. Treads must be at least 10 inches deep, and risers should be between 4 and 7.75 inches high. All the risers on a staircase need to be within 3/8 inch of the same height to prevent tripping. Handrails are required on stairs with more than three steps, and they need to be graspable and mounted at the correct height.

We stay current on all code requirements and build everything to pass inspection the first time. If you're considering upgrading other parts of your deck, you might also want to look at composite decking materials or repair and restoration services for the rest of your structure.

Deck stairs take more engineering than you might think. The stringers that support the steps need to be properly sized and secured. The treads need to be the right depth, and the rise between steps needs to be consistent. Even a small variation in step height can cause someone to trip.

We build stairs that are comfortable to use and safe for everyone. That means calculating the exact rise and run for your deck height, using sturdy stringers, and creating wide, stable steps. We also make sure there's proper landing space at the top and bottom, and we add lighting when needed to improve visibility.

For taller decks, we sometimes build landing platforms that break up long stair runs. This makes the stairs easier to use and safer, especially for older adults or anyone with mobility concerns. We can also design stairs that go in different directions or split into multiple runs to fit your yard layout better.