Pick from aluminum, glass, cable, composite, or wood railing options that match your home's aesthetic and your budget.
Most systems are designed for straightforward DIY installation with all hardware included, or we can help you find a trusted installer.
Relax knowing your railing is code-compliant, weather-tested, and backed by industry-leading manufacturer warranties.
Hover over each style to learn more
The gold standard for Saskatchewan. Zero maintenance, rust-proof, and lasts 30+ years.
Rich wood aesthetics without the maintenance. Made from recycled materials for eco-friendly durability.
Frameless elegance that maximizes your view. Perfect for modern homes and scenic locations.
Contemporary cable design for open sightlines. Stainless steel cables provide strength and style.
Affordable and durable vinyl railing. Classic white finish that never needs painting.
| Material | Key Benefits | View Obstruction |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | Zero maintenance, 30+ year lifespan, rust-proof | Low |
| Composite | Wood look, splinter-free, eco-friendly | Medium |
| Cable | Maximum views, modern, marine-grade | Very Low |
| Glass | Premium, wind protection, unobstructed | Minimal |
| Wood | Natural beauty, DIY-friendly, budget option | Medium |
Saskatchewan building code requires railings on decks elevated more than 24 inches (600mm) from the ground. For decks 24"-71" high, you need 36" railings. For decks over 71" high, you need 42" railings. Always verify with your local municipality as some may have additional requirements.
Aluminum and composite railings perform best in Saskatchewan's extreme temperature swings. Both are engineered to withstand -40°C to +30°C without cracking, warping, or requiring maintenance. Aluminum is the most durable and maintenance-free, while composite offers a traditional wood look. Cable and glass also perform well but require more regular maintenance (cable tensioning, glass cleaning).
Railing costs vary by material and complexity. Budget $15-25/linear foot for wood, $30-50/linear foot for composite or basic aluminum, $50-80/linear foot for premium aluminum or cable systems, and $80-150/linear foot for glass railing. A typical 12x16 deck (56 linear feet of railing) runs $1,700-$8,400 depending on material choice.
Yes! Most modern railing systems are designed for DIY installation with all necessary hardware included. Aluminum and composite systems typically use a bracket-based design that mounts to your deck surface or fascia. Cable systems require more technical skill for proper tensioning. Glass systems usually require professional installation. We provide detailed instructions and can recommend local installers if needed.
If you're adding railing to an existing deck, you typically don't need a permit if the deck itself was previously inspected and approved. However, if you're building a new deck or replacing structural components, you'll need a building permit and inspections. Contact Regina Development Services (306-777-7000) or Saskatoon Building Standards (306-975-2645) to verify requirements for your specific project.
Canadian building code requires that no opening in a guard (railing) shall permit the passage of a 4-inch (100mm) diameter sphere. This typically means balusters must be spaced no more than 4 inches apart (center-to-center measurements may be slightly wider depending on baluster width). This prevents small children from getting stuck or falling through.
Absolutely! Mixing materials is a popular design trend. Common combinations include aluminum posts with cable or glass infill, wood top rails with aluminum or cable, and composite rails with aluminum balusters. This allows you to balance aesthetics, visibility, and budget while maintaining code compliance throughout.
Aluminum: None (occasional soap and water cleaning). Composite: Annual cleaning with soap and water. Cable: Annual tension inspection and adjustment, cable replacement every 15-20 years. Glass: Regular cleaning to remove water spots and dirt (every few weeks). Wood: Annual staining/sealing, regular inspection for rot, board replacement as needed.
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