
Why Choose Tigerwood for Deck Railing
Tigerwood deck railing is the design accent that transforms any deck perimeter into a visual showcase. The bold orange-brown base with dark tiger stripes is especially striking on railing components because balusters and rails are viewed at eye level — the ideal viewing angle for Tigerwood's dramatic grain pattern. Whether matching a Tigerwood deck or adding a contrasting accent to an Ipe or Cumaru deck, Tigerwood railing guarantees that every guest notices the craftsmanship.
At 2,160 Janka, Tigerwood provides more than sufficient structural strength for all railing applications — over six times harder than pine and cedar railing materials. The wood naturally resists rot, insects, and decay for 40+ years, requiring no painting or chemical treatment. Tigerwood railing components stay straight, tight, and visually dramatic season after season.
Tigerwood railing works beautifully as both matching railing (on a Tigerwood deck) and as a contrasting design element (on a darker or lighter deck). The striped grain on vertical balusters creates a rhythmic visual pattern across the railing run that's unlike anything aluminum, cable, or composite railing can achieve.
Complete your deck with matching railing → Shop Tigerwood Decking
Build Your Tigerwood Railing System
Posts
4x4 standard posts. 6x6 heavy/gate posts. Structural anchoring required — set into framing or surface-mount with hardware.
Sizes: 4x4 (via Fencing)
Shop Tigerwood Posts →Top Rail
2x4 standard top rail. 2x6 wide cap rail for a finished top edge. Continuous run for strength and graspable profile for stairs.
Sizes: 2x4, 2x6
Shop Tigerwood Rails →Balusters
2x2 standard vertical balusters. 1x1 slim balusters for a lighter, more open look. Space 4" max per code (sphere test).
Sizes: 1x1, 2x2
Shop Tigerwood Balusters →Bottom Rail
2x4 bottom rail keeps balusters aligned and secured at the base. Same material as top rail for consistent appearance.
Sizes: 2x4
Shop Tigerwood Rails →Need posts? Tigerwood 4x4 and 6x6 posts are available in our Fencing & Timbers categories. 4x4 Tigerwood Posts • Browse All Timbers
Railing Styles You Can Build with Tigerwood
Vertical Baluster Railing
Classic look with vertical 2x2 or 1x1 balusters between posts, plus top and bottom rails. Meets all building codes for residential and commercial use.
Code: 4" max spacing between balusters (sphere test)
Components: 4x4 posts, 2x4 top & bottom rails, 2x2 or 1x1 balusters, optional 2x6 cap rail
Horizontal Rail Railing
Modern look with horizontal 2x2 or 2x4 boards running between posts. Clean, contemporary aesthetic with strong visual lines.
Note: Check local codes — some jurisdictions restrict horizontal infill (climbability concern)
Components: 4x4 posts, horizontal 2x2 or 2x4 infill, optional 2x6 cap rail
Tigerwood Railing Specifications
| Botanical Name | Astronium spp. |
| Common Names | Tigerwood, Goncalo Alves, Jobillo |
| Janka Hardness | 2,160 lbf |
| Density | 56 lbs/ft³ |
| Durability Class | Class 1-2 |
| Fire Rating | Class A (ASTM E84) |
| Rot Resistance | Very Good |
| Insect Resistance | Very Good |
| Expected Lifespan | 40+ years |
| Color (Fresh) | Orange-brown with dark tiger stripes |
| Color (Weathered) | Silver-gray patina |
| Baluster Sizes | 1x1, 2x2 |
| Rail Sizes | 2x4, 2x6 |
| Post Sizes | 4x4 (via Fencing) |
| Origin | Central & South America (Brazil, Mexico) |
Code & Installation Guide for Tigerwood Railing
Standard railing codes apply: 36"/42" height, 4" max baluster spacing, 6' post spacing. Pre-drill all holes — Tigerwood is dense. Use stainless steel fasteners. For maximum visual impact, orient balusters so the striped grain runs vertically for a rhythmic pattern across the railing. Seal cut ends.
Tigerwood Railing vs. The Alternatives
| Feature | Tigerwood | Aluminum | Cable | Composite | Vinyl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Rich natural wood | Modern metallic | Minimal, open | Uniform plastic | Plastic |
| Lifespan | 40+ yrs | 30+ yrs | 30+ yrs | 15-25 yrs | 15-20 yrs |
| Warmth/Feel | Warm to touch | Cold metal | N/A (cable) | Plastic feel | Plastic feel |
| Matches Deck | Yes — same species | No | No | No | No |
| Fire Rating | Class A | Non-combustible | Steel cables | Melts | Melts |
| Maintenance | Optional oil | None | Tension adjust | Wash | Wash |
| Customization | Fully custom | Limited | Limited | Limited | Limited |
Tigerwood Railing vs Aluminum Railing
Aluminum is uniform and industrial. Tigerwood railing is a one-of-a-kind natural artwork at eye level — dramatic striped grain, warm touch, and genuine wood beauty that aluminum can never provide. Both last 30+ years, but only Tigerwood makes a design statement.
Tigerwood Railing vs Ipe Railing
Ipe is harder (3,684 vs 2,160 Janka) with uniform chocolate-brown grain. Tigerwood wins on visual drama. Some designers use Tigerwood railing as a contrasting accent on Ipe decks — the combination is stunning.
Learn moreTigerwood Railing FAQ
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About Tigerwood Wood
Species information & properties
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