Building codes are often interpreted and implemented locally and may not be uniform throughout an entire state. Check with your local municipal or county inspector before you commit to building a particular design. If you do not get a satisfactory answer, consider using BOCA standards as a guide.
International Residential Code requires a guard rail once a deck is over 30" off grade.
A railing normally is not required unless the deck is more then 30 inches off grade, your town may set it's own rules. Check with your building inspector's office. 36 inches is the required guard height.
OSHA specifies that walkways over 4'-0 above ground or surrounding surface require railing. International Residential Code requires a guard rail once the deck is 30" or greater above grade.
The minimum requirement for a deck railing is 36 inches, or three feet. Anything height less than this would be dangerous. If this would impede on your sight lines, consider using higher chairs.
There are codes in some areas for minimum railing height, but it can vary according to your location. Generally, most areas require at least 36" height above the deck. Generally, most railings are from 38"-42" high. Many builders prefer 42" heights and up to 52" for deck levels that are a greater distance from the ground. If you are designing smart, you want to make sure that your railing is greater than 1/2 the height of a taller person of 6'4". This would make it more difficult for a taller person to "flip" over the rail because of railings less than 1/2 their height.
Yes you do if it is over 30 inches high. ideas-for-deck-designs.com
I don't believe there is a maximum height of a guard rail, just a minimum of 36 inches. Handrails on stairs have a max and min height of 34 to 38 inches according to the IRC.
the railing on the forecastle overlooking the main deck
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Some of spectacular wood decks are the following: Wooden Deck Railing, A sunburst and Vinyl Deck Railing. Those are some of spectacular wood decks. You can also visit http://www.backyard-design-ideas.com/deck-railing.html for more wooden decks for your yard.
Balusters are the series of vertical posts that support a stair banister or deck railing.
Many websites offer `pre-fab`plans that will support building a stock deck. Before purchasing such a plan, make sure the plan takes into account any local building codes that apply to decks in your area- things like height off the ground, type and size of footings and height of any required railing.
If your deck is low to the ground, railing may not be necessary. Juridictions vary, but if your deck is less than about 30 inches from the ground, railing may not be required by your local building code. As always, check the building code in your area before deciding.