Vinyl deck railings have long been a staple in the alternative decking category, and according to industry experts, there is a definite demand for them from homeowners. Many homeowners, especially those in the Midwest, New England, and the Southeast, simply prefer the clean, crisp appearance of a white railing with their decks — no matter what the decking material is.
Even though vinyl railings currently hold a larger share of the railing market than composite railings, composites are starting to grow in popularity. Composites offer several properties that hollow vinyl railings do not — components have a more solid feel, sport low-gloss finishes, and provide the appearance of natural wood. Also, composite railings have improved in terms of architectural style since their introduction. Many homeowners with composite decks are choosing railings that match their decks' texture and color. Several composite manufacturers now offer matching railing systems with decoratively milled handrails, post caps, balusters, and accessories.
“They're a lot more elaborate than they were even two years ago, when everyone was offering just a straight dimensional lumber profile,” says John Long, VP of sales and marketing for Kadant Composites.
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