Deck railings and stairs
Railings and stairs take the hardest use on any deck. Here's what the code asks for and what a solid job looks like.
A railing is only as strong as its posts, and a post is only as strong as its connection to the deck frame. On many older decks, posts were notched and nailed to the rim joist, and after years of weather they rock. Stairs take a pounding too: snow, shovels, sandy feet coming up from the beach and everyone hauling coolers.
When is a guard required?
Garfield Township's deck handout, based on the Michigan Residential Code, requires guards where the walking surface is more than 30 inches above grade, at least 36 inches tall on the deck. On stairs with a total rise over 30 inches, guards must be at least 34 inches high measured from the tread nosing. No opening in a guard may let a 4-inch object pass through.
What makes stairs safe?
- At least 36 inches wide, with risers no taller than 8¼ inches and treads at least 9 inches deep, per the township handout
- Consistent steps: the largest and smallest risers or treads can't differ by more than 3/8 inch
- A graspable handrail on any stair with four or more risers, 34 to 38 inches above the nosings and running the full length
- No open risers on stairs more than 30 inches high
- Stringers fastened to the deck and resting on a solid landing
Railing choices
| Type | Good for | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | Matching a wood deck at lower cost | Needs finish; balusters loosen over time |
| Aluminum | Clean lines and little upkeep | Usually a system with its own posts and brackets |
| Cable | Keeping a view of the bay or a lake open | Needs stout end posts and occasional tightening |
| Composite / vinyl | Matching composite decking | Sleeves slide over structural posts |
Warning signs
- A post or top rail that moves when pushed
- Balusters that are loose, missing or spaced wide enough for a child to slip through
- Treads that bounce, crack or tip forward
- Stringers that are soft or split at the bottom
Pricing comes from the builder after they've seen the house, measured, checked the soil and access, and talked through materials with you. We don't quote prices, and any number you hear before a site visit is a guess at best.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Can I replace a railing without replacing the deck?
Usually, if the frame is solid enough to anchor new posts. The builder will check how the posts attach and whether the rim joist is sound.
Does a low deck need a railing?
Under the Michigan Residential Code as summarized in Garfield Township's handout, guards are required where the deck surface is more than 30 inches above grade. Below that, a railing is optional but often still a good idea.
Related services
More background: Traverse City deck guide.
A deck that's gone gray and soft, or one you've only pictured over the bay?
Call the number above and a Grand Traverse area deck builder will talk through what makes sense for your house.