Why RDI Railing Beats Wood Railing

When it’s time to replace your existing patio railing or install new deck rails, it’s important to weigh all the choices, plus the pros and cons, to make the right decision. Initial and long-term costs, maintenance, structural integrity — and most importantly, safety and performance—are all prime factors in choosing the best railing system for a patio, deck, porch, balcony and stairway. 

Let’s Talk Value

While wood railing typically costs less upfront, the ongoing hassle of maintenance, repair and replacing rotting wood are prices you’ll pay over the long run. Factor in the valuable time spent on continual upkeep and surging material prices, and you’ll find that initial lower wood railing cost keeps inflating year after year. 

Unlike wood railing, with RDI Railing you’ll never have to worry about painting, staining, sealing, sanding and replacing damaged rails again. Only RDI Railing has more patents, proven performance, and an industry-leading warranty that guarantees you’ll pull the wallet out only once. 

Smarter Materials

Being outside 24 hours every day of the year takes endurance. Heavy rain, freezing temperatures, humidity, insects and the intense UV rays cause wood decks and wood railing to deteriorate and become eyesores — and sometimes dangerous. The best way to endure these unrelenting weather conditions is to outsmart Mother Nature with materials superior to wood.

What makes RDI Railing a better choice?

• Multiple vinyl, aluminum, composite and steel options outperform wood. 
• No ongoing wood repairs. 
• No complete deck and railing replacement every few years. 
• Moisture easily wicks away. 
• 10,000+ hours of extreme salt spray testing ensures durability. 
• Third-party testing ensures fade resistance. 
• Unaffected by gnawing insects. 
• Won’t crack or split in extreme temperatures. 
• Comprehensive warranty coverage. 

Lower Maintenance

If you’re looking for deck railing that minimizes the ongoing maintenance costs and nagging workload, RDI Railing has a solution for you. We’re the leaders in beautifully engineered railing options that, unlike wood railing, need only soap and water to maintain.

Stronger Reinforcements

Most deck installers use screws and nails to keep wood railing in place. Once those connections cause cracks and loosen and rust, the rails will sag and collapse one by one. We addressed that challenge by reinforcing the structural integrity of our railings with high-quality materials and virtually seamless connections.

• Unlike other vinyl brands, our top and bottom railing systems are strengthened with metal and hidden stainless-steel connections. 
• All steel rails are pre-assembled and welded firmly in place. 
• Screwless, rackable aluminum panels go up quickly and remain upright. 
• Patented ProLock® and ClickConnect™ innovations provide quick and secure connections. 

How RDI Railing Stacks Up Against Wood

Wood vs. Aluminum

Wood vs. Vinyl

Wood vs. Composite

Wood vs. Steel

There are many benefits to choosing RDI Railing over wood. Our railing pays for itself with minimal maintenance and high-performing durability over the long run. Explore the many ways RDI Railing brings your outdoor space to life by locating an experienced railing contractor to install the right railing for you.