There are many options for beautiful and durable deck railing systems, but it’s hard to turn away from the classic aesthetic of wood, especially in the Northeast. Wood deck railing fits perfectly with the region’s four-season climate, crafting a marvelous deck to enjoy nature comfortably.

While more modern materials like vinyl, steel and aluminum receive praise for their durability, wood can be just as durable if you choose the correct type for your project. 

Considerations For A Wooden Deck Railing in the Northeast

When choosing a high-performing wood for your deck railing, several factors come into consideration like the climate, maintenance requirements and more. 

Climate and Environmental Factors

The Northeast’s climate is generally humid and characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot, and winters are cold, with a pleasant spring and fall. While the four-season climate is sought after by many and is part of the region’s natural mystique, the changes over a year can be hard on some wood types.

Heat and cold affect wood by causing expansion and contraction, which can cause warping, cupping and cracking over time. This is more of an issue in humid climates like the Northeast than the Mountain West’s drier climates.

Wood Deck Railing Maintenance Requirements

Regular maintenance is the best way to keep wood decking physically strong and visually vibrant, even when using the highest quality species for outdoor use. 

The best way to properly maintain wood deck railing is to ensure it is clean and reapply penetrating oil when needed. 

Over time, the sealant will naturally degrade due to a combination of UV light and temperature variations and any physical contact the deck railing receives. Keeping the deck railing clean and resealing every few years (unless damage is obvious earlier), can help keep the wood pristine. 

Another good maintenance task is to keep the deck itself clean from debris and any foliage that may be brushing up against the deck railing. This will help from impact damage, however slight, that can build up over time. 

While its penetrating oil will protect the railing from a pile of wet leaves, it’s much better to simply clear that off to prevent potential damage.

Budget Considerations for Wood Deck Railings

The highest quality wood for a deck railing will be more expensive, but homeowners must consider these costs in the long and short term. 

While homeowners may save money by selecting lower-quality wood for deck railings, the railing will be more susceptible to annual climate variances. It also won’t be as durable against normal wear and tear, meaning maintenance costs will be higher and replacement will be sooner.

The good news is that with high-end wood, homeowners get a more durable railing that lasts longer and is usually more aesthetically pleasing.

The 3 Most Durable Wood Solutions for Deck Railing

Western Red Cedar, Thermory and Ipe are ideal for deck railings due to their durability. 

Deck railing is critical to a deck because it keeps occupants safe from falling. The stronger the material, the less likely of an accident. These woods’ durability ensures that their strength will carry on long into the future, which also helps reduce maintenance and replacement costs.

Resistance to weather and decay is also a major factor in the wood’s durability. Natural resistance within some wood types can limit the amount of warping, cracking, cupping and rot. Natural oils and tannins in specific species protect against decay-causing fungi, insects and moisture penetration.

While resilience is a top priority for deck railings, you also want a solution that offers aesthetic appeal. Thankfully, high-end wood solutions like Western Red Cedar, Thermory and Ipe don’t compromise beauty for strength — this gives homeowners the best of both worlds for their deck railing design. 

1. Western Red Cedar

Western Red Cedar is a beautiful hardwood species that is naturally resistant to insect damage, decay and rot thanks to its natural oils and extractives. 

Cedar has long been used in exterior applications due to these characteristics and its solid durability. Western Red Cedar offers a luxurious reddish-brown to light pinkish-brown color with a distinctive grain pattern, making it an excellent choice for various architectural styles. 

Thankfully, Western Red Cedar is also a sustainable building material and is harvested from well-managed forests in the Pacific Northwest region. Its perfect balance of beauty, durability and cost makes it our top choice for deck railings. 

The only real downside is the species requires sealing and potentially a refinish, but this is a small price compared to most wood species used in outdoor applications.

2. Thermory

Thermory wood is thermally modified to enhance longevity and durability without compromising the stunning natural look of wood. 

Each Themory board is modified to its core through a process of heat and steam. This creates a 100% real wood solution with incredible stability and rot resistance — no chemicals or additives are needed.

Thermory boards are also highly sustainable, as they are responsibly harvested and sourced only from naturally renewing forests.

3. Ipe

Carefully sourced for increased sustainability, Ipe is a truly exotic wood species known as one of the hardest and most durable. 

Ipe’s high-end aesthetic comes from its rich brown coloring and tight grain pattern, offering a darker look than Western Red Cedar and Redwood. Its natural resistance to decay, rot and insects is so strong that it does not require sealants or stains. Maintaining Ipe is simple — just clean it routinely and oil the surface occasionally to maintain its deep color and reduce surface checking.

Choose Russin for Your Deck Railing Lumber

At Russin, we pride ourselves on providing the most luxurious and durable wood products for outdoor applications in the Northeast region. We love the look and capabilities of wood, and it’s our mission to offer products that enhance any architectural style, traditional or modern. 

Reach out to us today to learn more about our Western Red Cedar, Redwood and Ipe solutions and see how we might complement your new deck with a magnificent wooden deck railing built to impress and last. From custom milling to factory finishing, our team of experts can provide you with the perfect lumber for your next deck build.