How Much Does It Cost to Replace Deck Railings in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

The cost to replace deck railings ranges from $900 and $1,800 with an average cost of $1,100. The cost per linear foot can vary widely—from $15 to $600—depending on the materials you choose. Factors like material type and labor charges will influence your total cost. Budgeting carefully is key, and hiring a decking professional can ensure a safe and high-quality installation.

Deck Railing Replacement Cost Factors

Factors like your location, the deck’s location, and any required permits can affect your total deck railing replacement cost. Here’s a breakdown of the cost factors associated with replacing your deck railings.

Railing Length

Deck railing costs are measured by linear foot. On average, deck railings cost between $15 and $600 per linear foot.

Labor

Labor charges typically range from $50 to $150 per hour, but some contractors may charge per linear foot. Before you hire a deck builder for your project, be sure to ask multiple contractors how they calculate their rates so you can accurately estimate the cost of your deck railing project.

Permits

Remember any required HOA or city permits, which typically range from $300 to $2,000. While this is usually less than the cost of a building permit, it's still an important factor to consider. Talk to a local pro about the exact rules and fees in your area.

Location

Labor costs can vary depending on where you live. Before hiring a contractor, it's a good idea to find a few railing installers near you and compare their quotes. You should also consider the location of your deck. The total cost to build a deck may be more expensive depending on foundation requirements, height, and ease of access.

Deck Railing Costs by Material

The material you choose for your deck railings will impact your project’s cost. Here are the average costs per linear foot of common deck railing materials.

Wood

Wood deck railings typically cost between $40 and $50 per linear foot, but the price can vary depending on the type of wood you select. The main factor affecting the price is the cost of the wood itself, including these common types used for deck railings:

• Pine

• Cedar

• Mahogany

• Ipe

• Tigerwood

• Redwood

Pine tends to be the cheapest wood for deck railing, while tropical woods like mahogany and ipe are more expensive.

Vinyl (PVC)

Vinyl or PVC decking prices range from $20 to $40 per linear foot. For a 10-foot section, railings cost $200 to $400. 

Aluminum

Aluminum deck railing costs between $40 and $70 per linear foot. Installed, the average cost is $80 per linear foot.

Composite

Composite deck railings cost between $15 and $30 per linear foot, making them an affordable and low-maintenance option.

Trex 

On average, Trex brand deck railings cost $20 to $35 per linear foot. Trex products include powder-coated aluminum, composite, and composite wood-like railings.

Cable 

Cable railings range from $50 to $ 200 per linear foot, depending on materials and design.

Glass 

Glass railing prices fall between $100 and $600 per linear foot. Labor costs are significant for this type of railing, with a minimum charge of $75 an hour. Despite the name, the handrail is usually a metal frame that holds glass panels, forming the face of the railing system.

Wrought Iron

Wrought iron railings cost an average of $50 to $120, and decorative railings fall on the higher side of that range.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel deck railings are more affordable than wrought iron, costing between $30 and $80 per linear foot.

Poly or Plastic

Polyurethane railings cost between $25 and $70 per linear foot. This less common type is similar to PVC pipe and is sometimes considered a composite material.

DIY Deck Railing Installation vs. Hiring a Pro

When deciding whether to hire a pro or install railings yourself, consider the following:

• Your experience working with the material.

• Your availability and time.

• The cost of local handypeople.

• The product’s warranty—some manufacturers won't warranty a product unless it's installed by a pro.

• Permits and local code compliance.

While a skilled DIYer may consider tackling a deck railing replacement project, hiring a professional decking company is wise to ensure safety and a quality finish. Professional railing installation maintains your deck’s integrity and ensures safety, code compliance, and the warranty of your railings.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.