Porch railings are a vital component of a house. The reason is not only because they provide safety by preventing your pet or kids from falling off the porch. They will also complete your home’s outdoor living area, giving it a definite frame. As a result, your house will look more appealing.
Porch railings can be made of various materials, such as wood, metal, and concrete. Plus, they come in numerous styles or designs. Fortunately, we can provide you with a list of porch railing ideas. Hopefully, this guide can help you choose the best style that matches your preferences.
Types of Porch Railing Design
Metal Railing Ideas
1. Traditional Home with Stone Columns and Vertical Aluminum Railings
A vertical metal railing has a simple design. However, it can give your porch an elegant and modern look. This is especially true when combined with the earthy colors of the wood and stone columns.
Aside from being stylish, this type of porch railing is also sturdy and economical. Plus, it doesn’t block your view, so you can enjoy your surrounding while relaxing on your porch. Lastly, this type of porch railing requires regular maintenance. As such, you have to clean and recoat it from time to time to prevent water from damaging the metal.
2. Bricked Porch with a Wrought Iron Railing
Wrought iron railings are popular nowadays because of their stylish and classy design. As you know, this material is strong yet malleable; thus, it can be transformed into various shapes or designs. When used as a railing, it can make your porch look stylish and sophisticated.
Aside from that, wrought iron is also low maintenance because it can resist corrosion. In fact, you only need to paint this type of porch railing once every three to five years. However, a wrought iron railing is quite expensive. Even so, you’ll get all your money’s worth because of its many benefits.
3. Modern-Looking Porch with White Arched Baluster Railings
Arched baluster railings have subtle curves that can add a touch of elegance or sophistication to your porch, making it look more attractive and valuable. Typically, this design is well-suited for a contemporary or Victorian home.
This type of porch railing can be made of powder-coated aluminum or stainless steel. Both materials are strong; however, powder-coated aluminum is preferred because it lasts longer. To be specific, it is rust and corrosion-free, so it is long-lasting and low maintenance. However, this type of material is pricey, but it is less expensive compared to stainless steel.
Wood Railing Ideas
4. Porch with Traditional Vertical Railings
The traditional vertical railing is great for traditional homes that have porches with scenic views. The reason is that it doesn’t block the view. Because this type of porch railing is made of wood, it complements the traditional elements of the house. The best part is that wood is a budget-friendly material.
Wood railings are a popular choice because they are inexpensive and easy to install. Plus, you can stain or paint the wood. That way, the railing will match the overall design of your porch. Despite its great qualities, this railing material is not long-lastings. As such, it requires regular maintenance.
5. A Classic Turned Baluster Railings
Another great porch railing for traditional homes is a turned baluster railing that is made of wood. The reason is that it exudes a traditional look, and it can make your porch more cozy or homey. Aside from that, you can also apply a waterproof coating to make the wood more appealing and long-lasting.
Compared to a wooden vertical railing, turned baluster railings are more stylish and expensive. Because it is made of wood, it can’t withstand the various elements. Still, there are ways to make it last longer, like applying a waterproof coating.
6. Front Porch with Classic Horizontal Wood Railings
Wood railings can make your home inviting because it exudes warmth and comfort. Additionally, this porch railing material is also a great choice if you have a garden because it can easily blend with nature.
In the image above, the porch and stairs have similar railing material, which complements its surroundings. The wood railing is also stained and coated, making it an inviting and charming entrance even though it has a modest design.
Like other wood railings, this type of porch railing is budget-friendly. However, regular maintenance is necessary to make it long-lasting.
7. Traditional Home with Red Plank Railings
Plank railings are wider and thinker compared to standard wood railings. As such, they are sturdier. So, if you have some extra planks, you can use them as porch railings. You can also paint the railing to make it more appealing. Remember, paint can hide the imperfections of wood, making it look brand new.
Because plank railings are made of wood, they are not resistant to elements. However, you can make this porch material last longer by applying a wood sealer, a protective coating that prevents damage. Aside from that, paints with darker colors fade fast, so you need to recoat the railing to maintain its beauty.
8. Wooden Porch with White Sawn Balusters
Sawn balusters come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and patterns. As such, you’ll be able to pick a style that will complement the overall appearance of your house. You can also coat the railing with white paint to make it more attractive. Plus, waterproof paint can protect your railings, making them long-lasting.
Sawn balusters have eye-catching designs that will lure you to pick them. However, this type of porch railing is not meant for all kinds of houses. To be specific, most sawn bluster designs are best suited for Victorian homes because they can give them a classy and timeless look.
9. A Tropical Porch with Sawn Baluster Railings
Typically, sawn balusters are compatible with Victorian homes. However, you can also use this type of porch railing for other kinds of houses, depending on its design. For instance, you can use it to add a tropical touch to your porch, like the image above. The sawn baluster railing has a simple yet alluring design. The green and red linings on the wooden wall, on the other hand, completes the tropical theme.
Like paint, wood coatings can protect the railing from various elements. Another benefit of applying a wood coating is that it brings out the attractiveness of wood, making it look more valuable.
10. The Classic X-Shaped Porch Railings with Vertical Lines
X-shaped porch railings are excellent for various houses, including farm-house style, traditional, and contemporary homes. The addition of the vertical lines made the railing look interesting while keeping it simple. The white paint, on the other hand, provides a touch of elegance to the porch.
As mentioned, applying paint on wood railings can offer several benefits. Aside from enhancing its attractiveness, paint can also make wood last longer, especially if you use waterproof paint. However, regular cleaning and recoating are necessary to maintain the railings’ beauty.
11. A Contemporary Home with X-Shaped Porch Railings
As mentioned, an X-shaped railing can be used for a modern home. In the image above, the porch floor, railing, and the posts were painted with a dark color. This hue creates an excellent contrast with the white color of the walls. The result is a modest porch with a touch of sophistication.
When using dark-colored paints, always remember that they will fade fast. For this reason, you have to repaint the railings and posts to ensure the uniformity of color. Plus, it can also protect the wood from water and other elements.
12. Wooden Porch with Chippendale Railings
A Chippendale railing is an X-shaped railing with smaller lines filling the space. Because it has a modern appeal, this type of railing is great for contemporary homes. If you have a traditional house, a Chippendale railing can also be installed. The reason is that it blends well with the classic elements of your home, making it look timeless.
In the above image, the Chippendale railing is coated, revealing the natural beauty of the wood. Plus, the coat protects the wood from various elements. Still, the wooden floor and railings need constant recoating to make them last longer.
13. A Water-Front Porch with Horizontal Plank Railings
Plank railings can be arranged so that you can create uniform space between the lines or planks. This design can fit water-front porches because it allows you to enjoy the view of the beach while you’re on your porch. Plus, its simple and rugged design is appropriate for the beach setting.
Wood railings are not often used for water-front porches because water can easily damage the wood. Even so, you can use a wood sealant to protect your wooden porch. However, the coat should be applied regularly.
14. Wooden Porch with Horizontal Railings
Wood railings can blend well with nature. As such, it is a great material if your home is surrounded by nature. In the image above, horizontal railings were used on the porch, making it homey and appealing. Plus, it complements the brown walls of the house.
Like other wood railings on this list, this type of porch railing requires regular maintenance to make it long-lasting. Even so, wood is an affordable porch railing material. Plus, it can enhance the overall appearance of your home.
15. Wooden Porch Railing with Geometric Patterns
Wood railings can also have geometric patterns. For the image above, the porch railing has a rectangle with intersecting curves at the center. Aside from being unique, this design is also eye-catching. As such, it can enhance the appearance of your porch.
To add aesthetic value to the railing, you can paint it with a striking color that blends well with the overall appearance of your home. Additionally, you have to repaint the railing once its color starts to fade.
16. Custom-Made Railings
If you can’t pick a baluster design that will complement your house, you can always opt for a custom-made railing. With this type of railing, you can add a dramatic effect to your porch. However, it should match the style of your house. In most cases, custom-made railings are suitable for old-fashioned house or Victorian homes.
Custom-made railing can be made of various materials. Wood is typically used because it can be easily molded into your preferred design.
Glass Railing Ideas
17. A Cozy Porch with Plexiglass Railings
If your home has a scenic view, glass porch railings are highly recommended. The reason is that they can provide enough support while allowing you to enjoy your scenery. Plus, they can add a contemporary touch to your porch, depending on the design of its frame. For glass railings, you can either use wood or metal as support or frame. You can also paint the railings to make it look more attractive.
Despite its great qualities, glass railings are easy to scratch. Aside from that, it requires constant cleaning. Lastly, some birds may also run into it because it is unnoticeable.
18. Modern Porch with Glass Railings
To give your porch a modern look, you can use a glass railing with a wooden frame. In the image above, the wood was coated with a dark brown varnish. This coating doesn’t only enhance the attractiveness of the railing. It can also protect the wood from the damaging effects of water and other elements.
With this type of wood railing, you will not only clean the glass often. The wooden frame will also require regular maintenance. For example, you need to reapply the varnish every two to three years.
Concrete Railing Ideas
19. Water-Front Porch with Knee Wall Railing
Concrete is the ideal material for water-front porch railings because they are durable and long-lasting. In the image above, the porch was framed with a knee wall with a lattice design.
As its name implies, a knee wall is a short wall with a height of less than three feet. One benefit of using this type of porch railing is it provides some privacy. Aside from that, you can also design the railing so that it will reflect a modern style.
All kinds of concrete porch railings are expensive. Nonetheless, they can withstand the damages caused by water and other elements. Still, you need to check it regularly for cracks. Also, you should repaint it once its color fades.
20. An Elegant Home with Turned Baluster Railings
Aside from wood, turned balusters can also be made of concrete. In fact, this type of porch railing is often used for colonial and Victorian homes because of their strength and beauty. Plus, they pair well with concrete columns, a common feature of colonial houses. You can also paint the railings to add sophistication to your porch.
Compared to wooden balusters, concrete balusters are more expensive. Additionally, they are not easy to install. Nevertheless, a lot of people choose this type of railing because it is elegant-looking, durable, and long-lasting.
21. A Stone House with Turned Baluster Railings
Aside from colonial houses, concrete balusters are also well-suited for stone houses. The reason is that they complete the overall appearance of the house. White balusters are preferred because they are stylish and elegant. You can also paint the railings with other colors; however, the color should match the earthy tones of the stone walls and columns.
There are various ways to preserve baluster railings. For one, you have to check the railing for cracks regularly. If there are cracks, you need to patch them before they become bigger. For painted railings, you also need to repaint them every five years.
Cable Railing Ideas
22. Modernize Your Porch with Cable Railings
Cable porch railings are popular nowadays because they offer numerous benefits. For one, this type of railing is easy to install. Aside from that, it is compatible with numerous home designs, and it requires minimal maintenance. Also, it doesn’t obstruct your view. Best of all, it makes your porch more attractive.
Despite its advantages, cable porch railings have a major drawback. To be specific, it is not strong enough to support heavy weights and prevent falls. Aside from that, loose cables may also cause accidents.
Chain Railing Ideas
23. Unique yet Stylish Chain Railings
If you’re looking for a unique porch railing, you can opt for chain railings. Because they are attractive, they can enhance your home’s appeal. Plus, they are inexpensive, and they won’t block your view.
Like the cable railings, this type of porch railing can’t prevent falls. Aside from that, it is also prone to rust and corrosion because it is made of metal. To prevent these types of damages, you can paint the chains. Plus, paint can enhance the appearance of your railings, making them look beautiful.
Vinyl Railing Ideas
24. A Chic Colonial Home with White Porch Railings
A lot of homeowners choose vinyl porch railings because they are durable, long-lasting, and inexpensive. As shown in the image above, this type of railing is elegant-looking, despite its budget-friendly price. Plus, the white picket fence and vinyl balusters are a good combination, which increases the appeal and value of the house. Lastly, vinyl railings are low maintenance.
Like other types of porch railings, vinyl railings have disadvantages. For instance, you can’t paint it. Aside from that, it is vulnerable to the sun’s rays. With continuous sun exposure, it will eventually crack and fade.
25. Simple yet Elegant White Vinyl Railing
The most common type of vinyl porch railings is the traditional vertical railing. Although it has a simple design, it exudes beauty and elegance. As such, it is compatible with various kinds of houses, including traditional and modern homes.
Because you can’t paint vinyl porch railings, they may not blend well with some house designs. So, you have to make sure that the white railings will look pleasant on your porch before buying and installing them,
Composite Railing Ideas
26. Keep it Simple with Composite Railings
Composite porch railings are a combination of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and recycled wood flour. The end product is a railing with exceptional strength, beauty, and durability. As such, if you’re looking for a simple and durable railing, you can opt for vertical composite railings.
Compared to wood railings, composite railings are not prone to damages caused by termites. However, this material is more expensive than wood.
Mixed Materials
27. Concrete Porch with Wrought Iron Railings
Wrought iron railings can fit into various styles of homes. In this image, the combination of concrete and metal results in a modest yet aesthetically pleasing porch. Plus, concrete and metal are strong and durable, and they can withstand the various elements. As such, you’re guaranteed that your porch will last long.
A downside for this type of porch railing is its price, which is quite expensive compared to pure metal railings. Additionally, the wrought iron part of the railing would require occasional repainting to maintain its beauty. Ideally, repainting should be done every three to five years.
28. Spacious Porch Framed with Traditional Straight Post Railings
Another great porch railing is the combination of wood and metal. In the image, the railing has a wooden frame with iron rods. The result is an elegant-looking railing.
Aside from being attractive, this type of porch railing is also strong. However, the materials used are prone to damages, like rust and corrosion. As such, the white and black coatings of the railings can help prevent these damages. Still, regular maintenance is required to retain the beauty of the railings.
29. A Mixture of Wood and Metal Railings
Another great porch railing idea is the combination of wood railing and iron railing. In the picture above, the frame of the railing is made of wood, while iron rods were used to fill the spaces. Additionally, the wood and metal were painted in two colors, enhancing its attractiveness.
Like the other wood and metal railings, this type of porch railing needs regular maintenance to prevent damages. Other than that, this porch railing idea is great for traditional and contemporary homes.
30. A Combination of Concrete and Wood
Combining wood and concrete can result in a strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing porch.
In the picture, the porch has wood railings. Plus, there are also columns are made of concrete and wood. Also, the railings and columns are painted white and blue. The result is a stylish porch that can last long, especially if maintained properly.
