Guardrails provide critical safeguards, particularly for children, so proper design and installation are important. Guardrails are required anytime a porch, balcony or deck surface is positioned more than 30 inches above the adjacent floor or grade. Guardrails are also required along stairs with a total rise of more than 30 inches.

Previous versions of the Michigan Residential and Building codes restricted the use of guardrail infill constructed with horizontal rails or other ornamental patterns that resulted in a possible ladder effect. However, the basis for this restriction was thoroughly reevaluated and consequently, the wording was revised. As a result, horizontal intermediate rails are now allowed in the 2003 Michigan Residential Code.

One increasingly common type of guardrail infill system uses low-profile, stainless steel cables instead of the more traditional wood or steel balusters. Tempered glass panels can also be used as infill. Both designs improve aesthetics where views are important (such as along balconies or decks) while maintaining safety.

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