Composite-Railing Roundup Shawnee OK

Options abound, whether you select a kit or separate components

by Theresa Coleman

Along with the growth of the synthetic-decking industry has come a spate of new railings made from similar materials in practically limitless styles and colors. Knowing the universe of choices available will help you meet your clients’ needs and may even allow you to sell some upgrades to boost your bottom line.

So what are composite-railing manufacturers offering these days? Their main approach continues to be kits (Figure 1) — all the companies listed in this article sell them (see “Composite-Railing Manufacturers” ), and most also sell packages made specifically for stairs. New styles and options are popping up, including “mix-and-match” kits that allow you to vary, say, what baluster goes with which railing, for a custom look. Installation guides have improved — some manufacturers even provide online video instruction. And one company guarantees 48-hour delivery from its warehouse.


Figure 1. Most manufacturers supply railing kits that include the newel, rail, balusters, and hardware needed to install either 6 feet or 8 feet of railing. Everything is there, but you may end up buying more than you need.

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