Deck Benches Instead of Railings? Pros and Cons

As homeowners, we're always looking for ways to enhance our outdoor living spaces. And one idea that's growing in popularity is using deck benches instead of traditional railings. This innovative concept takes an essential safety feature - the railing - and transforms it into built-in bench seating along the perimeter of your deck.

But is this practical? Does replacing railings with benches work well in real life? There are good arguments on both sides, which is why we're exploring the pros and cons of this trendy deck design idea.

Deck Railing Overview

Before weighing deck benches versus railings, let's review the purpose of railings.

Purpose and Function

Deck railings serve several vital functions:

• They prevent accidental falls off the deck's edge, especially for kids and pets.
• They provide support for leaning or holding when navigating deck stairs.
• Railings define the deck's boundaries visually.

Common Styles and Materials

Typical deck railing styles include:

• Vertical balusters with top and bottom rails
• Horizontal cable railings stretched between posts
• Glass panel railings for unobstructed views

Deck railing materials span from wood, composite lumber, aluminum, wrought iron, steel cable, and glass. This variety allows homeowners to match their railing choice with the overall deck design and style.

Cost Considerations

On average, homeowners spend around $45 per linear foot to install wood or metal railings. More expensive options like glass panel railings often exceed $100 per linear foot. Factoring in labor, the total cost can range from $1,500 up to $5,000 depending on the railing type and deck size.

Deck Bench Overview

Purpose and Function

In lieu of railings, built-in bench seating around deck perimeters serves several functions:

• Benches define the deck's outer boundary.
• They provide ample seating for entertaining guests.
• Benches add accent details as part of the deck design.

Material Options

Deck benches utilize similar materials as traditional railings like:

• Cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine wood
• Composite lumber or plastic
• Concrete, brick, or natural stone
• Wrought iron or aluminum

Cost Comparisons to Railings

Building a deck bench typically ranges from $25 - $100 per linear foot. So a 10' long bench could cost $250 - $1000. Factoring in labor and design details, deck benches present a cost-effective alternative to standard railings.

Key Differences Between Benches and Railings

Now that we've covered the purpose and costs of both options, let's compare some of the key differences.

Safety and Liability

Railings undoubtedly provide greater protection against falls. So deck bench seating brings increased risks:

• No barriers for kids, pets, or intoxicated persons against falling
• Fewer grab points for navigating stairs
• Greater liability if someone is injured after falling

Seating Capacity

Unlike railings, built-in benches boost seating options significantly. For example, you could add:

• 15' long backless bench seating 5+ people
• 10' long storage bench seating 3+ people
• Curved bench seating 5+ people

Aesthetics and Views

Benches prevent railings from obstructing views off the edge of your deck. And as part of the design, they add stylistic elements through shapes, colors, materials, and accent details.

Who Should Choose a Bench Over a Railing?

Replacing railings with bench seating makes the most sense in certain scenarios:

Homeowners Wanting More Seating

For decks used frequently for entertaining, extra seating is a top priority. Built-in benches add substantial seating capacity perfect for gatherings with 8+ guests.

Properties with View Obstructions

If your property overlooks a lake, beach, valley, or other scenic vista, railings create barriers. Integrating benches keeps those views unblocked.

Locations with Lower Fall Hazards

For ground-level decks less than 2 feet high, the fall risk decreases. Here, benches present a stylish, functional seating choice over railings.

Installation Factors to Consider

While conceptually swapping railings for benches sounds straightforward, the installation entails a few important considerations.

Weight Loads and Footings

Deck benches must withstand greater weight loads than railings. As such, footings may require deeper holes and additional concrete to prevent settling.

Meeting Code Standards

Most building codes mandate standard height railings for any deck surface over 30" high. So ensure your plans meet local regulations before nixing those railings!

Integrating Bench Supports

Proper support blocking between joists needs installation underneath bench seating surfaces. These supports prevent sagging under weight loads over time.

Ideal Deck Bench Dimensions

When designing your built-in benches, consider ergonomics and comfort:

Height

Standard bench height falls between 17-18". This enables most adults to sit comfortably with feet touching the deck boards.

Depth

A depth of 20-24" allows ample room for adults of all sizes. Depth exceeding 24" causes issues getting in and out of the bench.

Length

Benches less than 6' long feel cramped for multiple persons. Optimal length is 8 to 15 feet, depending on available space.

Material Recommendations

Which materials work best for deck benches? Here our top picks based on durability, aesthetics, and maintenance:

Best Woods

Naturally rot-resistant woods that hold up over years of exposure:

• Cedar - rustic beauty that grays naturally
• Redwood - attractive grain and color
• White oak - withstands weather elegantly

Durable Composites

Composite lumber made from recycled plastics/wood resists weathering:

• Trex
• TimberTech
• Fiberon

Easy to Maintain Metals

Powder coated aluminum and steel withstand the elements:

• Wrought iron
• Aluminum
• Steel

Additional Deck Bench Ideas

Customizing your built-in benches creates extra functionality:

Storage Benches

Hinged tops reveal interior storage for patio accessories, toys, and tools. No more clutter!

Planter Bench Combos

Integrating planter boxes, flower pots, or plant shelves makes a lovely addition. Plus the plants help define the boundaries organically.

Backless Bench Options

Simple backless benches with built-in seat padding boost seating economically.

Pros of Using Deck Benches

Let's summarize the many excellent reasons to install built-in benches instead of deck railings:

• Added Seating and Social Spaces: Benches encourage people to relax conversing for hours.
• Fewer View Obstructions: Low-profile benches maximize sightlines off the deck.
• Lower Costs Than Railings: Simple bench construction is cheaper than most railing options.

Cons of Using Deck Benches

The downsides of foregoing standard railings do exist as well:

• Reduced Safety in Some Scenarios: Optimize bench use for low-level decks under 30".
• Less Universal Accessibility: Bench heights and depths may not suit some users.
• Limitations on Placement: Bench seating isn't always possible given build regulations.

Hopefully weighing the pros and cons gives homeowners a complete picture on deck benches instead of railings. When used appropriately for lower decks, benches boost seating and style economically while opening sightlines. But traditional railings still reign for higher decks due to safety and accessibility.

Ultimately both benches and railings serve useful roles in deck design. Evaluate your priorities along with height and code factors before deciding which approach works best!