Purpose of Raling Systems
The railing and handrails are important safety features on commercial staircases and balconies. Architects/contractors have to use the right materials to ensure they work properly and provide the necessary protection. In some cases, the material used has to be both aesthetically pleasing and functional. There are various types of railing materials available on the market. To select the railing material, you must first understand its characteristics, its cost, durability, maintenance requirements etc.
Railings are used on stairs, balconies, galleries, decks, ramps, walkways and so on as a means of providing separation, support and safety. Railings can be made from a very wide range of materials.
TYPES OF RAILING SYSTEM
ALUMINIUM RAILING
Aluminium is a naturally occurring metal with a lower density than the majority of other metals used in commercial applications. This makes it a better alternative to steel, especially when weight is a huge consideration. Aluminium is one of the most cost-effective metals that can be 100% recycled without compromising on the quality of the finished product (Misra, 2017). Aluminium also has the added advantage of being resistant to rust and corrosion from common elements and corrosive materials without the need for additional Treatment.
Gypsum board is majorly utilized as surface material and its uses are important in wall and ceiling preparations. The board has higher features like Fire resistance, soundproof and light weight. It is used as drywall. It is the best construction material for wall, ceiling, and partition walls in residential and commercial spaces
BENEFITS OF ALUMINIUM RAILING
Railing costs usually vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but aluminium railing is more affordable and less expensive than other types of railings
Unlike other types of railings, aluminium railing does not corrode or deteriorate. If cleaned and maintained properly, powder coated aluminium railing can last 20 to 40 years.
Aluminium railing installation is simple and does not require the use of heavy equipment. Aluminium is lightweight and is easy to transport to construction sites. Miter saws are ideal for cutting aluminium.
Aluminium makes for beautiful railings. Aluminium railing is available with powdered coating, which adds luster and protects it from environmental factors. It is available in a variety of colours to match the interior décor of your house.
Aluminium railings require minimum maintenance. They do not rust or flake, as aluminium is a non ferrous material. You don’t have to worry about repainting the railing. If it appears dirty, simply clean it with soap and water. Aluminium railings tend to corrode in coastal areas. When coastal salty airs come into contact with aluminium, it forms a white coating of aluminium oxide and unpleasant pitting is formed on the surface of Aluminium. Powder coating is an effective way to protect aluminum from salt water and air
STAINLESS STEEL RAILING (S.S)
Steel, along with cement, remains one of the most popular and widely used building materials. It is strong, despite being much denser than many of the other metals used in industrial applications. Steel’s versatility allows it to be used in industrial staircases, egress stairs, and stair stringers
The one downside to using steel is that it is prone to rust. This means that contractors have to use stainless steel in applications where the metal will be exposed to the elements. Steel is made more rust-resistant by incorporating nitrogen, nickel, molybdenum, and chromium into it.
BENEFITS OF ALUMINIUM RAILING
The cost of steel railing ranges from INR 400/ feet to INR 1200/feet, depending on the grade of steel used. Stainless steel is costlier as it requires less maintenance
Steel railings are stronger and more stable than wood railings because of their higher tensile strength. It can withstand heavy loads without sustaining any damages. Steel railings can last a lifetime with proper care.
The maintenance of steel railing depends on the grade of steel used in it. Stainless steel requires less maintenance than other metals. Low grade steel is more susceptible to corrosion. Steel railings need to be repainted as the paint can flake over time. If the railings appear dirty, simply wipe them down with a damp cloth and they will be as good as new. Steel does not bend, warp or crack. Steel railings can endure inclement weather
Steel railings are heavy and difficult to install. Transportation and handling sometimes require heavy items. Skilled welders are required for the installation of steel balustrades. Due to the weight and complexity of installation, it is recommended that the steel railings are installed by professionals.
Steel railing instantly gives your structure a modern, sleek and minimalistic look. Many modern houses use stainless steel railings as they have a gleaming surface. It easily combines with glass or wires without complicating the design. However, there is not much scope for customization in the design of steel railings
GLASS RAILINGS
Although glass is commonly used in residential settings, it has seen greater adoption in commercial settings such as resorts and stadiums in recent years. Glass might not appear to be a safe or obvious choice because it is brittle and therefore prone to shattering, but it is far tougher than it is perceived to be. Glass can be clear, transparent, frosted or etched.
In normal stair applications, other types of railing materials, such as metal or wood, are used for the handrails, while glass is used for the main structure. Stainless steel handrails are most common with glass railings. The glass can also be framed to add rigidity and improve aesthetics, or it can be left unframed
BENEFITS OF GLASS RAILINGS
Glass railings are more expensive than other types of railings. If common glass is used, the cost of glass railing in India ranges from INR 1200/feet to INR 2200/feet. Toughened or tempered glass, which is expensive, is used for high safety.
Float glass railing has a long lifespan for indoor applications. Toughened or tempered glass railing, on the other hand, is more secure. It is three times stronger than float glass.
Glass railings do not require a lot of upkeep. Glass can withstand environmental factors. It does not show signs of wear or cracking. It can be restored to like-new condition by simply cleaning it with soap and water. Cleaning glass railings becomes more important in high-traffic areas as fingerprints are imprinted on the surface on a daily basis.
It is critical to take precise measurements of the space when installing glass railings, so it is best to hire trusted professionals. The quality of the hardware holding the glass should never be neglected because it affects the overall safety of the railing system.
Glass railing adds openness and visibility wherever it is installed. It allows natural light, which brightens the interiors. It complements the minimalistic style of interior design perfectly. Glass railing systems offer a variety of designs to meet your requirements. Transparent glass is commonly used, but the design cannot be customized. If you want more privacy, you can opt for frosted glass or lacquered glass. Glass railings add a modern touch to your interiors.
CABLE STAIRCASE RAILINGS
Cable stair railings use high tension, horizontal or vertical metal cables instead of pickets or panels to provide a barrier on the side of the stairs. Cable railing can be used with a variety of different handrail and newel post materials including steel, aluminum and wood.
Cable railing has become a modern staple in the building industry, for a number of reasons. Chief among them are its modern, minimalist look, durability, and safety. Cable railing has quickly risen as the most popular and highly sought modern railing system on the market.
Also made from stainless steel, the posts for cable railing are as easy on the eyes as they are to install, and come in a variety of powder coat finishes and mounting options. With simple components and distinct hardware, cable railing is ideal for indoor or outdoor projects.
BENEFITS OF CABLE RAILINGS
Cable railing is often used to replace traditional wood railing and is refreshing, sharp, and modern solution. It immediately improves the overall aesthetic and curb appeal of your home.
Using a large variety of tension kits , post types and finishes, cable railing is easily configurable tp your unique space.
We have streamlined the installation process , making cable railing relatively easy for DIY’ers and professionals alike. This is reinforced with a complimentary step-by-step binder of installation instructions for your unique order , as well as the companion.
A beautiful , head turning cable railing system is more than an “upfront cost”, it is a growth investment into the value of your home.
The flexibility of cable and the fact that it comes in a spool gives the project a lot of flexibility both in design and installation.
