Ah, the great outdoors. There’s nothing quite like stepping out onto your deck to soak up some Calgary sunshine or to enjoy a serene evening under the stars with friends and family. But if your deck feels a little lacklustre or if you’re dreaming of an upgrade that adds both safety and style, focusing on your deck railing can make all the difference. From the practicality mandated by the Calgary deck railing code to the aesthetic appeal of various materials, there’s a world of options to transform your deck into a stunning outdoor retreat.
Let’s dive into some creative ideas for deck railings that not only meet the City of Calgary deck railing height requirements but also add that “wow” factor to your outdoor space.
Table of Contents: Enhancing Your Deck: Creative Ideas for Railings That Wow
- Keeping the Calgary Deck Railing Code in Mind
- 11 Creative Ideas for Deck Railing in Calgary
- Glass Railings
- Cable Railings
- Metal Balusters with Wood
- Horizontal Wood Slats
- Lattice Panels
- Wrought Iron Railings
- Rope Railings
- Mixed Materials
- Planters as Railings
- Bench Railings
- Privacy Glass Deck Railings
- Crafting Calgary Deck Railing Masterpieces with Mountain View Sun Decks
Keeping the Calgary Deck Railing Code in Mind
| Calgary Deck Railing Code | |
| Requirement | Details |
| Deck Height | Railings required if deck is more than 60 cm (24 inches) above ground. |
| City of Calgary Deck Railing height | Minimum 90 cm (36 inches) for decks under 1.8 meters (6 feet) high; 107 cm (42 inches) otherwise. |
| Gaps and Openings | – Maximum gap under railing: 10 cm (4 inches).<br>- Baluster spacing: no more than 10 cm (4 inches). |
| Structure and Materials | Must withstand certain force levels; materials should be durable and outdoor-appropriate. |
| Handrail Requirements | Required on both sides of stairs with 4+ risers; height between 86.5 cm (34 inches) and 96.5 cm (38 inches). |
| Permits | A building permit may be required depending on the project’s scope. |
| Compliance and Verification | Check with the City of Calgary for specific and up-to-date requirements. |
*Note: For detailed planning and execution of your deck project, including railings, always refer to the latest local building codes or consult with experts in Calgary’s building regulations.