How High Should Garden Railings Be?

Choosing the correct height for garden railings is important for appearance, safety and compliance.

Many homeowners assume taller railings automatically provide greater security, but the ideal height depends on the purpose of the installation.

Common Railing Heights

900mm High Railings

Often used for:

These provide an attractive boundary without dominating the property.

1100mm High Railings

Commonly used for:

This is often a good compromise between appearance and security.

1800mm High Railings

Typically used for:

These provide significantly greater deterrence against climbing and unauthorised access.

Factors to Consider

Security

Higher railings are generally more difficult to climb.

However, design can be just as important as height.

Features such as vertical bars and anti-climb detailing can significantly improve security.

Appearance

Railings should complement the property.

Excessively tall railings can make a garden feel enclosed and may not suit traditional homes.

Planning Restrictions

Height restrictions may apply depending on location.

Railings adjacent to highways often have lower allowable heights than those elsewhere on the property.

Ground Levels

Changes in ground level can affect the effective height of railings.

This should always be considered during the survey stage.

What Height Do We Recommend?

For most domestic front boundaries, 900mm to 1100mm provides an excellent balance of appearance, security and practicality.

For side boundaries and higher-security areas, 1800mm may be more appropriate.

Every property is different, which is why Glenview Steel carries out site surveys before recommending a solution.

Final Thoughts

The best railing height depends on the purpose of the installation.

Choosing the correct height from the beginning ensures the railings look right, perform as intended and comply with any applicable restrictions.