Deck railings and stairs
Railings and stairs get the hardest use on any deck. Here's what Wisconsin requires and what a solid job looks like.
A railing is only as strong as its posts, and a post is only as strong as its connection to the deck frame. On many older decks, posts were notched and nailed to the rim joist, and after years of weather they rock. Stairs take a beating too: snow, shovels, and everyone carrying groceries and coolers up and down.
When does Wisconsin require a guard?
Wisconsin's deck code is stricter here than many people expect. Appendix B to the Uniform Dwelling Code requires guards on open sides of a deck more than 24 inches above grade, with a minimum deck guard height of 36 inches. Openings in the guard can't let a 4-inch sphere pass through. Stairs with more than three risers need at least one handrail, set between 30 and 38 inches above the tread nosings.
What makes stairs safe?
- Risers no taller than 8 inches and treads at least 9 inches deep, per the state deck code
- Consistent steps: the deepest tread may not exceed the shallowest by more than 3/8 inch
- Stringers attached to the deck with a connector and resting on a solid landing
- A handrail you can actually grab, and light at the top and bottom
Railing choices
| Type | Good for | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | Matching a wood deck at lower cost | Needs finish; balusters loosen over time |
| Aluminum | Clean lines and little upkeep | Usually a system with its own posts and brackets |
| Cable | Keeping a view of the river or yard open | Needs stout end posts and periodic tightening |
| Composite / vinyl | Matching composite decking | Sleeves slide over structural posts |
Warning signs
- A post or top rail that moves when pushed
- Balusters that are loose, missing or spaced wide enough for a child's head
- Treads that bounce, crack or tip toward you
- Stringers that are soft or split at the bottom
Pricing comes from the builder after they've walked the yard, measured, and talked through materials and layout with you. We don't quote prices, and any figure you hear before a site visit is a ballpark at best.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Can I replace a railing without replacing the deck?
Usually, if the frame is solid enough to anchor new posts. The builder will check how the posts attach and whether the rim joist is sound.
Does my low deck need a railing?
Under Wisconsin's deck code, guards are required where the deck is more than 24 inches above grade. Below that, a railing is optional but still often a good idea.
Related services
More background: Eau Claire deck guide.
Spongy boards, a railing that gives, or a deck you've sketched on a napkin?
Call now and a Chippewa Valley deck builder will help you figure out the next step.