Can the balusters be cut since the top of my rail needs to be 30 1/2" or are the balusters tapered at each end?

Hi Russ. Thank you for your interest in Trex products and reaching out with your question. The 36" height railing balusters will be 32" in height. From the deck surface to the top of the top railing should measure 36". Therefore, per our guidelines, the balusters will not need to be modified. If you are installing the railing at a different height, this would be a custom fabrication, the balusters can be cut down, in this instance. If you do need further assistance, please feel free to reach back out to Trex. Someone from our Customer Care Team will be more than happy to assist. Kind Regards. -Trex Customer Care 1.800.289.8739 | customercare@trex.com