At What Height Should You Install Decking Banisters? 

 Elevated decking for balconies or sloped gardens instantly raises safety concerns, which is why many homeowners are looking to install decking banisters. Thankfully, the installation of NeoTimber® composite balustrades can help to border and protect these projects from hazards such as drops, as they are specifically designed (and building regulations compliant) to be used on both low-level and high-level deck projects.

Safety is of paramount importance for a secure balustrade, but at what height should you install composite decking banisters onto your project? In this article, we will outline the safety regulations and requirements to consider when building your balustrade project.

A balustrade height of at least 900mm is required for a deck up to a height of 300mm. This is classed as a low-level deck. You may think that a low-level deck may not even need a rail system, but even small drops can prove dangerous for anyone not confident in their footing, such as toddlers and the elderly. NeoTimber’s decking banisters sit at 1100mm high and acts as a dependable barrier to prevent any unnecessary falls, even at these low levels.

Any raised deck project more than 300mm high will require a balustrade, with a handrail of no less than 1100mm height from the floor or parapet wall, where the parapet creates a step. On top of this, if the steps leading to your decking are 1 metre wide, you will need to install hand railing on each side of the stairs. NeoTimber’s composite decking banisters are strong, safe and building regulations compliant for levels greater than 600mm. They are also easy-to-install and adapt to suit the specifications of your space. The hybrid system allows users to install the same product on both a straight and stair application.

If not treated and preserved regularly, timber can warp, splinter and rot, making it a potentially hazardous material to use for a balustrade install. It could prove disastrous should someone reach for a timber railing only to have it break underneath their weight. A balustrade railing can only be seen as a worthwhile protective feature if the material can withstand different pressures over a sustained amount of time, and due to the metal core and strengthened quality of the composite product, NeoTimber’s balustrade system is a reliable, trustworthy addition to any garden space.

NeoTimber’s composite decking banisters are a hybrid system, meaning that there are many applications where they can be used. Our balustrade posts and composite railings are suitable for balconies, stairs, raised decks and low-rise roof terrace builds, and can be installed onto existing decking or onto concrete. The handrail attaches to the post through a bolt fixing, which can then be set at any angle, making it the perfect choice for any garden build requirements. Available in five stunning colours, it is easier than ever to find a balustrade option to match your garden design.