Exterior Rails
Custom-fabricated metal exterior rails designed for Tahoe's demanding climate. Available in cable, horizontal bar, and vertical picket styles using marine-grade stainless steel, powder-coated aluminum, or finished steel. Built to withstand heavy snow loads, UV exposure, and freeze-thaw cycles while preserving your mountain views. Every system is measured, fabricated, and installed to fit your deck or stairway precisely—no off-the-shelf compromises.
Your deck should be a place to take in the view, not worry about safety. In Tahoe’s demanding climate, where freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, and intense UV exposure test every material, choosing rails built for the environment isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Exterior rails from Mountain Metal Works combine structural integrity with clean, purposeful design. We fabricate cable railings, horizontal bar systems, and traditional vertical picket styles—each engineered to handle mountain conditions while maintaining unobstructed sightlines. Our rails are built from marine-grade stainless steel, powder-coated aluminum, or steel with protective finishes selected specifically for high-altitude performance.
Metal outperforms wood and composite alternatives in critical ways: it won’t warp, split, or rot through Tahoe’s wet winters and dry summers. Cable systems preserve your view of the lake or ski runs while providing a secure barrier. Horizontal tubes and geometric patterns create clean lines that complement contemporary mountain homes and updated classics alike.
Customization sets us apart from catalog suppliers. Every rail system starts with your specific requirements—exact dimensions, architectural style, preferred materials, and budget. Finish options range from brushed stainless steel to powder-coated colors. We can incorporate wood top rails for warmth, lighting channels for evening ambiance, or custom post caps that tie into other metalwork on your property.
Our Truckee shop means we understand what holds up at elevation and what doesn’t. We work directly with homeowners, contractors, and architects—coordinating with your timeline and providing documentation for permit approval.
Ready to explore what’s possible? Reach out to schedule a consultation or request a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
The primary cost drivers are total linear footage, material selection (stainless steel costs more than powder-coated aluminum, for example), design complexity, and site conditions that affect installation. We provide detailed quotes after assessing your specific project so there are no surprises.Most residential rail projects take two to four weeks from measurement to installation, depending on material availability and design complexity. We’ll give you a realistic timeline during the quoting process and keep you updated if anything changes.
Most residential rail projects take two to four weeks from measurement to installation, depending on material availability and design complexity. We’ll give you a realistic timeline during the quoting process and keep you updated if anything changes.
Powder-coated and stainless steel rails require minimal maintenance—typically just periodic cleaning with mild soap and water. We recommend inspecting cable tension annually and checking hardware connections each spring after the snow season. Properly fabricated metal rails won’t need the staining, sealing, or replacement that wood alternatives demand.