Decking Balustrades

Aluminium decking balustrades

A raised deck, a balcony or a set of deck steps needs a guarded edge, and a balustrade is what provides it. Our decking balustrades come from the PuraFence range: powder coated aluminium kits for level runs and for stairs, with matching posts, for a clean, contemporary metal framed edge that suits composite and timber decks alike.

Aluminium is lighter than steel, which makes it easier to handle on site, and it is naturally corrosion resistant. The powder coat adds the colour and a further layer of protection against the weather on exposed sites.

Balustrade railing kits and posts

Everything you need comes in three parts, sold separately so you can match them to the length and shape of your deck:

• PuraFence aluminium balustrade railing kit: a complete level run balustrade with posts, top rail, infill components and fixings, for raised decks, balconies and other guarded edges.
• PuraFence aluminium stair balustrade railing kit: the same complete kit made to follow the pitch of steps, for deck stairs and changes of level.
• PuraFence aluminium balustrade post: the matching post that carries the rail loads into the deck or base, fixed at the spacing set out in the installation manual.

Why choose an aluminium balustrade

An aluminium balustrade gives a raised deck a light, open edge that does not compete with the boards. Because the structure does not corrode in normal conditions and the powder coat holds its colour, there is no painting or staining to do, which suits a low maintenance composite deck. It also keeps the weight on the deck frame down compared with a heavier steel system.

Installing a deck balustrade

Plan the balustrade with the deck, not after it, because the posts need solid fixing points:

• Set out the posts: mark the post positions at the spacing set out in the PuraFence installation manual, which also gives the maximum post centres.
• Fix the posts: fix them to the deck frame or base with fixings suited to what they are going into.
• Fit the rails and infill: assemble the top rail and infill components from the kit between the posts.
• Keep the paperwork: the manual includes documentation for projects where the balustrade forms part of regulated guarding.

Use the PuraFence posts with the kits. They are made for each other, and other posts are not recommended.

Looking after aluminium balustrades

A periodic wash keeps the powder coat clean and bright. Once a year, check the finish for chips, particularly at the base of the posts on exposed sites, so the coating keeps its colour and protection for many years.

Decking balustrades in Dublin and across Ireland

Our balustrade kits and posts are stocked in our Dublin warehouse with the composite decking and decking substructures they are built on, so the whole deck can arrive in a single delivery across Ireland. For trims, fixings and joist tape, see all our decking accessories.