There are practically as many varieties of front porch stair railings as there are front porches. Colors, building materials and styles available can be combined in so many different ways that each front porch can be unique and individual.



The first thing to decide upon when you are creating a front porch railing is what materials you want to use. There are many different materials available for railings. PVC and vinyl are some of the best choices of materials for front porch railings for a number of reasons. PVC and vinyl are slip resistant, do not splinter and have no dangerous sharp edges (if they are properly installed). These materials are very long lasting, and offer other benefits as well. PVC and vinyl do not retain heat and so will not be too hot to touch on a hot day, as metal railings are. PVC is resistant to ultravioilet light, and so will not fade as some materials do. Water cannot permeate PVC, and the material is just about maintenance free. It is also available in a variety of colors so you can let your imagination run wild. If you like the look of wood, but want the easy care of PVC, you can even get PVC railings in a wood grained pattern.

Wood, is of course, another popular material for porch railings. For a traditional, classic look, many people choose wood. Different woods create different looks, so you can be imaginative here as well. Cedar is a naturally preserved wood that is resistant to decay and insect infestation. Cedar endures even in the most moisture prone environments. You can also make front porch railings out of composite materials. The advantage of composite materials is that they look like wood products, but are easier to care for. They resist rot, insects, UV rays and moisture better than most wood products. They will not splinter as wood will, a quality many consider important.

You may also consider using iron as a material for your front porch railings. Many people like the rich look of iron railings and they are very durable. Iron railings can add an elegant touch to your home. If you have your iron railings custom made, you can have very beautiful designs that may be unique to your home. People have had such things as animal designs or family crests incorporated into the design of the railing. Iron railings can take a lot of abuse and can weather almost any storm.

If you choose the right material for your front porch stair railings, you will assure yourself years of enjoyment from your front porch.