Railings are a vital part of both commercial and residential buildings. If you look around, you will notice their vast use in both indoor and outdoor spaces. The primary purpose of installing railings in these structures is for safety. They play an essential role in protecting the occupants from falling, which could result in the loss of life or irreversible damage caused by injuries. The other role that railing plays in buildings is that of decoration.
The history of railings is characterized by the use of wrought and cast iron. With time, things changed, and other materials like wood and glass are being used for this job. Choosing the right material for your railing is essential.
When should you use a railing made of wood?
1. When a huge budget is available
Both the cost of installation and maintenance of wood is high. Wood railings are expensive. They are beautiful and bring nature to your home. However, you need to have a huge budget to be able to install them. Also, note that they will require maintenance from time to time, which will cost you both in labor and materials. This option is ideal if you are willing to spend.
2. When have hard-working workers to keep it clean
It is important to note that wooden hardware requires maintenance. The wood railing will require specialized stain removal from time to time. A fresh layer of varnish, and if it is painted, you will require to add a new coat of paint. Wood is appealing, and to keep it that way; you need to give it attention and proper handling. If you have a proactive maintenance team, then this may be a good option or you.
3. When already have an enlarged space
Wood tends to be bulky and can occupy a significant amount of space. If you have a small house or staircase, things may appear cramped if you use railing made of wood. This makes the material ideal if you have enough space in your commercial or residential property.
4. When the temperature in your home is controlled
When wood is subjected to extreme temperatures, it can warp, expand, or shrink. The expansion and shrinkage can also lead to the formation of cracks. Unless your home or residential property is temperature regulated, a wood railing may not be able to last as long as you may want it to.
When should you use Glass railing?
The other alternative for a railing system is the use of glass. Modern homeowners and commercial property owners are increasingly using these tempered glass railings in their structures. Here are the reasons why homeowners prefer these railings with sleek designs.
1. When have a limited budget
Compared to a wood railing, that made of glass is more affordable. This is in terms of the cost of materials, labor, and maintenance. Note that in the long run, you will only need soap and water to keep it looking good. You will not be required to hire a cleaning team or purchase unique cleaning materials and paints. If you are on a budget, the glass will offer you an affordable and very functional option for railing.
2. When has less home space
The railings are usually six millimeters to ten millimeters thick. This means that they can be used even in homes that have limited space. They occupy less space, and unlike solid structures like wood, they do not create harsh breaks, which can make your house look small. The transparency creates an illusion of space, making your home or residential property look more spacious than it actually is.
3. When you want low maintenance work
Unlike wooden railings that require constant polishing and attention, glass ones are pretty easy to maintain.
Remember that wood railings only thrive in temperature and weather-controlled environments. Railings made of glass can be used both indoors and outdoors with no extra attention required. It does not weather when exposed to water and sun. Also, it does not require a fresh coat of paint from time to time. It only requires a micro-fiber cloth, soap, and water to look as good as new.
4. Durability
Railings made of tempered glass are durable. They are not affected by temperature changes, and they are great for outdoor use, as elements of weather do not destroy them. They can withstand different environmental factors and protect your home from winds and other elements. More so, it will look new for an extended period.
Which option is better for your home?
When choosing the railing material for your home, you should consider budget, durability and ease of maintenance. You want something that will serve you for a long time without the need to do a replacement. Also, an option with low maintenance is suitable as it will save you time and money. Glass railings are not only affordable but also save on space, making them ideal for any home. More so, they require low maintenance and durability. So why not give your balcony and deck or stair side the look and feel it deserves by utilizing glass railing today. Get in touch with
https://www.fabglassandmirror.com/glass-railing to get hooked up with the best quality glass rails and give your home a look of a lifetime.
The misconception about railing made of glass
The biggest misconception about glass railing is that it can break easily and will not protect your children from falls. This has caused many homeowners skeptical about installing them. The truth of the matter is, railings made of glass are able to withstand impact and provide your family with safety. Balustrades made of tempered glass undergo certain treatment that makes them four times stronger than the regular glass. Breaking is hard and almost impossible. More so, it is a safe option because it breaks into harmless granules. You cannot be injured by tempered glass particles.
Compared to other materials like wood, railings made of glass are beneficial. For one, they are a great option if you are on a budget. On installation, you will not be required to give them attention other than periodic cleaning using soap and water. Tempered glass is a durable material that will stay looking good for years. Additionally, it can enhance the aesthetics of your space by giving it a polished and modern look.
