Tigerwood hardwood deck railing system

Tigerwood Deck Railing

Railing that gets noticed — Tigerwood's dramatic striped grain is especially eye-catching on balusters and rails visible at eye level.

Janka Hardness

2,160 lbf

Lifespan

40+ years

Fire Rating

Class A

Components

Posts, Rails, Balusters

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)

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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

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Balusters

2x2 standard vertical balusters. 1x1 slim balusters for a lighter, more open look. Space 4" max per code (sphere test).

Sizes: 1x1, 2x2

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Bottom Rail

2x4 bottom rail keeps balusters aligned and secured at the base. Same material as top rail for consistent appearance.

Sizes: 2x4

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Need posts? Tigerwood 4x4 and 6x6 posts are available in our Fencing & Timbers categories. 4x4 Tigerwood PostsBrowse All Timbers

Shop All Tigerwood Railing Components

Posts, rails, balusters, and caps with live pricing.

Railing Styles You Can Build with Tigerwood

Classic

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

Modern

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 NameAstronium spp.
Common NamesTigerwood, Goncalo Alves, Jobillo
Janka Hardness2,160 lbf
Density56 lbs/ft³
Durability ClassClass 1-2
Fire RatingClass A (ASTM E84)
Rot ResistanceVery Good
Insect ResistanceVery Good
Expected Lifespan40+ years
Color (Fresh)Orange-brown with dark tiger stripes
Color (Weathered)Silver-gray patina
Baluster Sizes1x1, 2x2
Rail Sizes2x4, 2x6
Post Sizes4x4 (via Fencing)
OriginCentral & 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

FeatureTigerwoodAluminumCableCompositeVinyl
AppearanceRich natural woodModern metallicMinimal, openUniform plasticPlastic
Lifespan40+ yrs30+ yrs30+ yrs15-25 yrs15-20 yrs
Warmth/FeelWarm to touchCold metalN/A (cable)Plastic feelPlastic feel
Matches DeckYes — same speciesNoNoNoNo
Fire RatingClass ANon-combustibleSteel cablesMeltsMelts
MaintenanceOptional oilNoneTension adjustWashWash
CustomizationFully customLimitedLimitedLimitedLimited

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 more

Tigerwood Railing FAQ

Tigerwood railing features bold orange-brown coloring with dark brown to black tiger stripes. On balusters at eye level, the striped grain creates a dramatic visual rhythm across the railing run. Each piece is unique — no two Tigerwood railings look the same.

Yes. At 2,160 Janka — over 6 times harder than pine — Tigerwood easily meets structural requirements for residential and commercial railing systems. Natural rot and insect resistance provides 40+ year durability.

Absolutely. Tigerwood railing works as a striking contrast accent on Ipe, Cumaru, or Garapa decks. The bold striped grain creates a design feature that stands out beautifully against uniform deck surfaces.

Yes. Tigerwood's structural strength exceeds requirements for deck railing. Follow standard codes: 36" height (residential), 4" max baluster spacing, proper post anchoring. Always verify local requirements.

The vivid stripe contrast mellows over the first year. UV oil preserves the original drama. Without treatment, Tigerwood weathers to silver-gray where the stripes remain subtly visible — a refined look at eye level.

Tigerwood railing comes in 1x1 slim balusters, 2x2 standard balusters, 2x4 top/bottom rails, and 2x6 cap rail. Posts (4x4) are available in our Fencing category.

Ready to Complete Your Deck with Tigerwood Railing?

Browse tigerwood railing components with live pricing — or call for a free quote.