Choosing the right color for your deck railings is an important decision that can dramatically affect the look and feel of your outdoor living space. The railings serve both a practical and aesthetic purpose, providing safety and visual appeal. When selecting a color, you’ll want to consider factors like material type, existing color scheme, maintenance requirements, and personal preference. This article explores popular railing color options, key considerations, and provides tips for choosing the best shade for your deck.
Page Contents
Popular Railing Color Options
While deck railings come in a wide variety of hues, certain shades tend to be more popular choices among homeowners. Here are some of the most common railing color options:
- White – A crisp, classic color that creates a clean, bright look. White railings pair well with many color schemes and materials.
- Black – Sophisticated and dramatic, black railings provide bold contrast. This shade works with a variety of decking colors.
- Gray – Subtle and versatile, gray tones complement myriad deck materials and styles. Options range from sleek steel gray to warm wood-inspired gray.
- Beige – Earthy beige railings deliver a laidback, welcoming vibe. The neutral tone allows deck features to shine.
- Brown – Rich wood shades like cedar and mahogany infuse traditional warmth. Browns emphasize the outdoorsy cabin character of a deck.
These popular standby colors provide a tried-and-true starting point. However, don’t be afraid to get creative and consider bolder hues like navy blue, forest green, or wine red for your railings.
Key Considerations
When evaluating what color to paint or stain your deck railings, keep the following key factors in mind:
Material Type
The material your railings are constructed from will impact available color selection. For example:
- Wood railings can be painted any shade, but are best suited to semi-transparent stains that reveal some of the natural grain and texture. Opaque paints will adhere better if applied over a wood primer.
- Wrought iron and steel railings should be coated with specialized exterior metal paint to prevent rust. Most colors are possible.
- Aluminum, vinyl, or composite railings are limited to the manufacturer’s color palette, but some can be painted. Darker colors may cause more heat absorption.
- Cable railings can’t be painted, but you can choose from metal colors like black, brushed nickel, bronze, or steel gray when installing.
Consult with your railing supplier regarding coloring options for your specific material.
Existing Color Scheme
Your deck railing color will look best if coordinated with the existing color scheme of your outdoor space. Take into account elements like:
- Deck boards
- House siding and trim
- Outdoor furnishings
- Landscaping and flowers
Choose railing hues that complement, without exactly matching, other shades on your deck and home exterior. For a cohesive look, limit yourself to 2-3 colors.
Maintenance
Over time, deck railings are exposed to harsh UV rays, dirt, and moisture that can cause color fading. Consider the amount of upkeep different hues require.
- Light colors show wear but are easily renewed with new coats of paint or stain.
- Darker colors hold up longer but may require more prep work if needing to change the shade.
- Natural wood tones help disguise weathering and aging.
Opt for quality exterior-grade paints or stains that provide protection from the elements.
Personal Preference
At the end of the day, choose a railing color you find attractive and enjoyable. It’s your outdoor living space, so select hues that appeal to your personal taste. If resale value is a consideration, popular neutral tones like white, gray, and tan are safest. But for your own use, any color that makes you happy works!
Exterior Wood Railing Color Ideas
For wood deck railings, staining offers an array of attractive color options while allowing the natural grain to show. Here are appealing hues to consider:
Whitewash
A white pigmented stain evokes a beachy, casual effect. The lighter color neatly shows off wood textures.
Gray
On-trend gray stained railings present a modern, stylish look. Gray beautifully flatters all types of wood decking.
Light Brown
Golden brown tones keep things traditional yet bright. This is a great choice for showcasing natural cedar railings.
Chocolate Brown
Deep chocolate browns lend a luxurious, upscale feel. The dark color contrasts nicely with lighter deck boards.
Redwood
For a vibrant punch, go with bright redwood tones. Red makes a bold statement and pairs well with tan decking.
Green
Emerald and sage stained railings deliver an earthy charm. Green pops against neutral decks but also works with darker shades.
With color options from airy to bold, stained wood railings offer tons of potential for customizing your deck. Consider applying different hues to railings, posts, balusters, and caps to create a striking two-tone scheme.
Metal Railing Color Recommendations
Metal railing materials like steel, wrought iron, and aluminum open up plenty more color choices with the application of exterior paints. Here are eye-catching color ideas for metal railings:
Gloss Black
Sleek and contemporary, black railings make a sophisticated style statement. The deep shade beautifully complements lighter decking materials.
Matte Black
For a more subtle look, flat black tone down railings to seamlessly coordinate with black framed screens and furnishings.
White
Crisp white railings keep things light and airy, allowing bold decking colors or landscaping to stand out. Gloss or matte finishes available.
Dark Bronze
With a classic, old-world appeal, bronze railings infuse antique charm. The rich metallic shade pairs nicely with natural stone.
Galvanized Steel
Let the silvery sheen of steel shine through by coating railings with clear sealer. This allows the modern industrial color to subtly emerge.
Forest Green
Deep green makes a bold, lively accent color. It contrasts beautifully with redwood or cedar decking.
Metal railings offer the versatility to go bold or neutral with your color selection. Combining multiple shades on railings, posts, and balusters can really make them pop.
Tips for Choosing Railing Color
Keep these tips in mind when selecting the perfect shade for your deck railings:
- Grab color inspiration from your home’s exterior, landscaping, and interior decor.
- If your current railings are in good shape, simply cleaning and touching them up with fresh paint or stain can give them a whole new look.
- View color swatches on the railing materials themselves before fully committing to a hue to see the true effect.
- Use accents of brighter colors like railings to inject visual interest against neutral backgrounds.
- Select a color that complements but doesn’t match the decking to make elements stand out.
- Reflect natural surroundings by choosing woodsy hues like hunter green, tan, or dark brown.
- Tie everything together with a cohesive 3-color combo across railings, furnishings, and decor.
- Don’t be afraid to get creative withtwo-tone schemes in complementary colors!
The Best Railing Color for Your Deck
When it comes down to selecting that perfect railing color, the most important considerations are your individual style, current color scheme, and preference. The right choice can liven up your whole deck. Here are some of the best railing color options for common deck styles:
| Deck Style | Best Railing Color Choices |
|---|---|
| Contemporary | Black, white, galvanized steel |
| Craftsman | Gray, brown, black |
| Cottage | Sage green, sky blue, white |
| Tropical | Turquoise, coral, stainless steel |
| Rustic | Redwood, green, brown |
| Mediterranean | Bronze, terra cotta, cream |
Use this general guide, but don’t be restricted to standard color conventions. The right railing color ultimately comes down to choosing a shade you love to complete your ideal outdoor oasis.
Conclusion
Deck railings make a big impact on the look and enjoyment of your outdoor living space. Selecting the perfect color requires balancing practical factors like material type and maintenance with your own unique aesthetic. Popular wood railing colors include natural stained hues from gray to redwood. Metal railings can take on any shade but look especially striking in black, white, bronze, or bold brights. Coordinate your railings with existing deck features and home accents. Most importantly, choose colors that reflect your personality and style to create a deck you love.
With a huge range of colors and the freedom to get creative, you’re sure to find the ideal hue to make your deck railings shine. Use these tips and recommendations to narrow down your options. A coloring decision brings everything together into a cohesive, eye-catching deck design you’ll enjoy for years to come.