In the summer, the porch is like an outdoor living room, the perfect space for parties, casual gatherings, and late-night chats. If you enjoy spending time on your front or back porch, consider contacting a fence contractor to install railings along its length and steps for the following reasons.

Why Install Porch Railings?

1. Safety

Probably the best reason to install railings along your porch and its stairs is to provide a safe environment. The railing will keep children and aging loved ones from falling, either on the steps or off of the porch itself. A railing can provide a visual barrier for pets, encouraging them to stay on the porch, and it can also help protect outdoor furniture from blowing away during high winds.  

2. Building Code

In the U.S., any porch that is higher than 30 inches off the ground is required to have a railing for safety reasons. This code commonly mandates a railing height of 36 to 42 inches. For best results, don’t have the top of the balustrade higher than the first-floor windows, so that a view from inside isn’t blocked or cut off by the railing. Talk to a fence contractor about what will look best with the home’s architecture as well as meet the federal code.

3. Aesthetic Appeal

The type of railing you install on a porch should match the architecture of the home and the type of preferred decor. A professional fence contractor will work with you to get exactly the look desired. If you have a historic home and aren’t sure where to start, consult photographs of similar styles, walk around a historic neighborhood and look at options, or talk to a local preservation society. Take landscaping, maintenance, and durability into consideration when choosing the design and materials of porch railings. The end result will turn the porch into a secure open-air room where it’s a pleasure to while away the time.

Porch railings add appeal to the home and may also be required by building codes. Holman Fence in Kernersville, NC, is a full-service fence contractor, offering customized fencing and porch designs, custom and automated gates, and fence repair. Choose from a variety of materials such as PVC, metal, or ornamental steel and aluminum. Call (336) 650-9613 for service in the greater Triad area or visit the website to see a full range of services.