Abstract: A decorative insert body, upper and lower connecting arm sets extending from the body, and upper and lower mounting feet extend from the connecting arms for attachment to upper and lower lateral fence rails. The decorative body has a U-shaped upper section, a U-shaped lower section, and a middle section. The upper connecting arms form a U-shape that is inverted from the U-shaped upper section, and the lower connecting arms form a U-shape that is inverted from the U-shaped lower section. Additionally, side mounting feet can extend from the middle section for attachment to fence vertical spindles.

Abstract: A spindle or baluster for use in a fence or deck railing which comprises a plastic outer shell having a first end section, a second end section opposite the first end section, and a middle section intermediate the first and second end sections. An elongate wood reinforcing element is positioned within the outer shell and extends from the first end section to the second end section.