Even when properly maintained, wood railing products will eventually deteriorate after long-term exposure to the elements (moisture is enemy #1). Railing deterioration, of course, can pose a serious safety risk to anyone who spends time on the deck, because the structural integrity of the railing system will be compromised.

To ensure a safer outdoor living space that serves up lasting performance and style points, many homeowners and building professionals are turning to durable outdoor railing materials like aluminum. This weatherproof railing material extends the expected service life of deck railings and is inherently low maintenance.

Available in a wide range of design aesthetics, aluminum railing systems can withstand the damaging effects that are typically associated with Mother Nature without compromising a homeowner’s unique vision for their outdoor living space.

Powder-coated aluminum railing resists water damage

Like we mentioned, water poses a threat to traditional deck railing materials. But tough and resilient, aluminum railing will sidestep the problematic issues typically associated with moisture absorption. Further preserving the integrity of the deck railing, industry-leading aluminum railing systems, like those from Fortress Building Products, feature a powder-coated finish for enhanced corrosion resistance. This can help ensure lasting performance season after season.

The durable nature of aluminum railing also translates to its low maintenance appeal. Homeowners can simply wash the railing with soap and warm water and dry with a soft non-abrasive towel.

A harsh climate railing that withstands sun and quickly dissipates heat

Moisture is not the only hazard deck railing faces. Extreme heat fluctuations and long-term exposure to intense UV rays can cause wood railing and some protective coatings to fade over time. When this happens, homeowners have to resurface and reseal or repaint their deck railing. Doing so is both cost- and labor-intensive.

Aluminum offers an ideal harsh climate railing solution for projects in hot and sunny locations. Not only does the coating technology from Fortress® resist fading, but the railing material itself quickly disperses heat, reducing heat expansion and maintaining a safe-to-touch temperature even on hot days.

Durable outdoor railing with timeless style for beachfront properties

Ocean spray and the salty atmosphere (all things you’d experience on a beachfront locale) can speed up the deterioration of wood products installed in outdoor applications. But the protective powder coating that top aluminum railing manufacturers use will provide the corrosion resistance that is necessary in coastal environments.

Further, in addition to the standard infill options, these durable outdoor railing systems are often customizable, so the homeowner can choose a distinct infill or top rail option. For example, with a powder-coated aluminum railing system from Fortress, infill options include vertical cable, full glass panels or glass balusters. Any of these three options can minimize sightlines and improve views of the surrounding beachscape beyond the edge of the deck.

Weatherproof railing that is easy to install

What’s more, aluminum railings from Fortress are also easy to install because they are panelized systems, which are pre-welded and pre-assembled at the factory to save valuable time on a project. Posts with pre-attached brackets further support a quick installation process. For peace of mind, the nature of a panelized aluminum railing option also maximizes system strength and lowers the risk of missing parts, contributing to a safer outdoor living space.

Discover weatherproof aluminum railings from Fortress here.