Railing News

What is a Railing Baluster?

Deck Railings | December 17, 2020

If you are thinking about updating the railing on your front porch or back deck, getting to know all of the various components used in a railing system, such as balusters, will help you make an informed decision about which type of railing material and style will work best for your particular wants and needs. If you are unsure what a railing baluster is or if you would like to learn more about the other components used in a railing system, the expert team from Vista Railings would be more than happy to answer any questions you might have.

Find out what the best deck railing material is for your wants and needs.

What is a Baluster?

Balusters, also known as spindles or pickets, are the series of short, vertical decorative posts that support the top rail in a railing system. Balusters are available with a wide range of stylistic options for you to choose from. While balusters can be created using a variety of different materials—wood, stone, concrete, iron, aluminum, or vinyl—aluminum balusters tend to be one of the most popular options because they can provide a classic look and do not require as much maintenance and upkeep as other materials do. Aluminum balusters are also extremely versatile and durable, making them a great option for homeowners who are looking for a more modern or unique aesthetic.

Why are Balusters Important?

One of the most obvious benefits of using balusters in a railing system is that they provide additional style and structure; however, while balusters can be used to add an attractive stylistic element to any railing system, they also serve a variety of purposes within the overall structure of the railing. Balusters are specifically designed to provide support and structure to the top rail or handrail, while also closing the gap between posts in the railing system. By closing the gap between posts, balusters act as a safety feature, eliminating any excess space in which a child or pet could fall through the railing and hurt themselves.

If you would like to learn more about what a railing baluster is, or if you are interested in learning about our selection of available baluster styles and materials, please contact Vista Railings at 1-800-667-8247. Our team of railing experts would love to help you select the best baluster style to match the specific aesthetic you have in mind for your new deck railing system.


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We are Washago Timber Mart and we've been a stocking dealer for nearly 15 years. Vista Railings are the absolute #1 best choice when it comes to Aluminum & Glass Railing Systems.

Chris Denne
Washago Timber Mart

James is wonderful! He continuously supports us and our Customers by ensuring that we receive our stock promptly and efficiently. He helps in rectifying issues that arise and at times he is known to personally drop off product either to our store or job sites to make sure we over deliver to our Customers! We appreciate you James and your team for all of your support!!

Rona Filsinger

The BEST railing in Canada… Customer Service is amazing. Thanks Team Vista the look of Vista railing is a beautiful sleek design it compliments any home and definitely increases the value of your home.

Brad Vermolen
Castle Niagara Building Centre

Top notch, sturdy and easy to install railing. Always a great experience dealing with James, Dwayne and Jim. From product knowledge, to solving any issues, they are always eager to help and on stand-by… Great working with them.

Mr Duncan

Vista has been a dream to work with, the program makes life so much easier and efficient to do quotes. Dwayne, Jim and the rest of the team I have dealt with are always willing to answer questions and go the extra mile to help fix any issues or getting pieces and parts to us promptly.

Matt Walker

We love working with the Vista Team! HF Smith Lumber in Cookstown, Ontario has been a proud stocking dealer since day one, carrying their four top colours. Vista’s quoting program is super easy to use and saves us a ton of time. The sales team is fantastic – always friendly, quick to help, and great to work with! We also love seeing the new products they continue to add. It’s exciting to expand our offerings and keep things fresh for our customers! Keep up the great work

Kim Ytsma
HF Smith Lumber

I purchase many different types of items in the building industry and have been at all levels from putting away lumber, customer service management and purchasing at wholesale level. The Vista railing company by far has been the best company to deal with in my entire 41 years in the industry. It’s just unbelievable the support and quality they produce from all levels — from manufacturing, pulling the product, design team and of course the sales support. Railing is a very difficult item for some yards to sell due to the complexity, but Vista makes it real easy with the least complicated quoting system, the Vista planner.
Thank you Team Vista for all you do for me and the industry!!

Randy Muentener