Frequently asked questions

The best material depends on your design goals and maintenance preferences. Aluminum offers sleek durability and corrosion resistance. Composite railing with Composicore® provides water resistance and the look of wood without the upkeep. Vinyl delivers lasting, low-maintenance performance, while steel offers bold strength with a slim profile. No matter what your vision, RDI Railing has the railing solutions you need to bring it to life.

Yes. Porch railing can be installed on most existing porches if the framing or surface is structurally sound and meets code requirements. RDI Railing systems are designed for straightforward installation on wood, composite and concrete surfaces, helping pros and homeowners upgrade with confidence.

Balcony railings are typically required to be at least 36 inches high in many residential applications, though some jurisdictions require 42 inches depending on height above grade. Always verify local building codes before installation. RDI Railing systems are engineered to meet code compliance when installed according to guidelines.

The railing on a balcony is commonly referred to as a guardrail or balcony railing system. It includes posts, top and bottom rails and infill components such as balusters, cable or panels. RDI Railing designs complete systems that work together for strength, safety and streamlined installation.

Steel railing is a railing system constructed from high-strength steel designed for residential and light commercial applications. It offers exceptional stability and a slim, modern profile while maintaining code compliance. RDI Railing steel railing systems are finished with durable powder coating to help resist rust and corrosion in outdoor environments.

For outdoor railing, powder-coated steel engineered for exterior performance is ideal. Protective coatings help shield the material from moisture and weather exposure, reducing the risk of rust. RDI Railing steel deck railing systems are designed specifically for outdoor durability, giving homeowners and pros long-term peace of mind.

Cleaning steel railing is simple. Use mild soap and water with a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt and debris. The powder-coated finish is designed for low maintenance, so it does not require sanding, staining or sealing to maintain its appearance.

Yes. Steel deck railing offers excellent strength and a secure feel under hand. Its slim profile maintains open sightlines while delivering reliable performance for elevated outdoor spaces. When properly installed, steel deck railing provides lasting safety with minimal upkeep.

ADA handrail requirements include specific height ranges, grip diameter, clearance from walls and extension lengths at the top and bottom of ramps or stairs. Requirements are defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act and local building codes. RDI Railing ADA compliant handrails are engineered to align with these standards when installed properly.

In most cases, ramps with a rise greater than 6 inches or a horizontal projection greater than 72 inches require ADA handrails on both sides. Local regulations may vary. Always verify code requirements before installation.

ADA handrails are generally not required on flat walkways without elevation changes. They are typically required for ramps and stairs that meet specific rise or slope thresholds.

ADA handrails are typically required to be installed between 34 and 38 inches above the walking surface. Proper measurement and mounting are critical to compliance.

Durable materials such as powder-coated aluminum are commonly used for ADA compliant handrails due to strength and corrosion resistance. RDI Railing systems are engineering for long-term performance and streamlined installation in commercial and residential settings.

Composite railing is a railing system designed to deliver the look of real wood with enhanced durability and lower maintenance. RDI Railing composite railing features Composicore®, a structural material that contains no wood fibers, making it water resistant and resistant to rot, splintering and mold. It offers long-term strength with style flexibility for decks, porches and stairs.

Composite railing is designed with long-lasting finishes that do not require painting. Because the color is engineered into the product, painting is typically unnecessary and not recommended. The low-maintenance surface helps preserve its appearance without the ongoing upkeep that wood requires, so your outdoor design remains consistent over time.

Yes, composite railing can be installed on a wood deck. It pairs seamlessly with pressure-treated lumber, composite decking and other deck surfaces. RDI Railing systems are engineered for straightforward installation, helping pros and homeowners upgrade existing structures while maintaining a cohesive design.

Cleaning composite railing is simple. Use mild soap and water with a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt and debris. Because Composicore® contains no wood fibers, it resists moisture-related issues, helping maintain crisp lines and a polished appearance with minimal effort.

Yes, composite railing can be cut to size using standard woodworking tools. This allows for custom fitting on stairs, corners and unique layouts. Always follow RDI Railing installation guidelines to ensure proper fit, performance and code compliance.