Whether you’re building a porch or upgrading your current one, getting the porch railing right is trickier than some people realize. There are so many options out there between the different materials, colors, and styles that it’s tough to pick one that looks the best.
And what if you’re tired of the traditional-looking options and you’re more interested in something unique? Well, we’ve pulled together seven different porch railing ideas to help inspire you. Check out these creative options before getting your porch railing installed and transform the look of your home.
1. Blend in With Nature
If you’re lucky enough to live somewhere with a view, you don’t want your house to detract from the beauty around you. Instead, take elements from your surroundings and incorporate them into your porch railing design.
While many people think of wood porch railings when they think of a natural-looking porch, that’s not your only option. There are many different types of materials used in deck and porch railings. Even if you live in a historic home, such as a Victorian or Colonial, you can find something that mimics the look of traditional railing materials.
For instance, composite railings look like wood but don’t require as much maintenance.
If you want to blend in and give your porch a woodsy look, consider choosing a railing style that mimics wood. If you want to stand out more, pick a complementary color in a warm tone. Reddish wood railings look natural while still standing out from the natural greenery.
2. Mix Materials
If you find traditional railing boring, you might want to consider mixing materials. Combine composite or vinyl and metal to create a unique and modern front porch railing.
Wood tends to have a “warm” look and metal a “cold” look, so combining the two produces an interesting effect. Composite posts, combined with metal slats or bars, is a common look used in more contemporary homes.
This style is natural, but modern. It can enhance the look of your home and update an old or outdated porch.
3. Bring a Color Scheme Together
You’re not just limited to white or black for your railing. There are many different colors and styles you can choose, including natural wood tones and grey. Plus, you can mix materials for an even more unique look.
One way to ensure your porch blends in with the rest of the house is to pick a color scheme and work with it. Consider the color of your house’s exterior.
What type of material frames the windows and doors? How can you bring those elements through to your porch?
If you’re stuck, check out an online gallery to get an idea of what works well together.
Match your porch railing to the siding or the framing around your windows and door. Choose colors that complement one another rather than detract.
If you’re updating an old porch, consider painting it. Between a fresh coat of paint and new railings, you’ll want to spend the entire day outside!
4. Upgrade to Wrought Iron
Wrought iron fences and railing often bring to mind opulent and historic homes. This classic look hasn’t faded in popularity over the years, and for good reason.
If you want to upgrade your home, installing a wrought iron porch railing can certainly give your house an upscale look.
There are even different designs and spindle types you can get in wrought iron, though custom designs tend to cost more. But if you have the perfect design in mind, or have always dreamed of a decorative railing leading up to your home, you can’t go wrong.
5. Cocktail Railings
If you prefer the modern look of broad and flat porch rails, you might want to consider a cocktail rail. These types of railings have a flat top, perfect for setting a drink on. And while you don’t have to use them as a makeshift table, they’re great for social gatherings.
If you love having people over, cocktail railing makes a lot of sense. Use them to place drinks or decorations or just to lean on and enjoy the outdoors.
The best part is that this type of porch railing comes in a variety of different designs so you can choose the style you like best. Go with pure white for a clean, beachy look or choose to mix wood with metal for that industrial-chic vibe.
6. Composite as an Alternative to Wood
As we mentioned earlier, composite railings make an excellent alternative to wood. Composite railings are comprised of PVC and recycled wood.
Wood railings, while beautiful, are difficult to maintain. Wood can rot, crack, and warp over time.
Composite materials look like wood but are easier to take care of and leave a smaller carbon footprint. You won’t need to stain or seal them, and composite railings are waterproof, so they last longer. Vinyl and composite railing are practically maintenance-free.
Plus, composite railings come in a variety of styles, so you’re almost guaranteed to find one that suits the look of your home.
Choosing the Perfect Porch Railing for Your Home
From contemporary to classic, you’re bound to find a porch railing out there that you’ll love. Consider the color and style of your home to ensure you choose a railing design that blends in well.
Hopefully, these seven creative ideas inspired you to build your dream porch. If you’re ready to get started, contact us to talk about installation and the different options available to you.