A perfect railing for any house or shop was always matter of debate. Still, here are four who lead candidates: wood, iron, aluminum, and stainless steel. Since every one has merit and demerit, stainless steel has got place in modern world architecture by its strength and durability also sense of aesthetics according to its preference of choice for the owners, builders, and architects.
However, is stainless steel the best for my railing? It explores several factors that determine whether stainless steel is the best for that next railing project.
1. Durability and Strength
The hallmark of stainless steel is strength and durability. It is stronger and much more resistant than wood or aluminum. This is why it can be used in areas of high traffic flow or outdoors where the railing is subjected to all elements at all times.
The presence of chromium in the alloy also makes stainless steel rust-proof due to the creation of an oxide layer on its surface, thus protecting it. Hence, stainless steel railings may be able to withhold extreme weather conditions and humidity, plus rain and saltwater, especially in coastal properties or in locations with heavy moisture.
For example, wood warps, splits, or rots over time. Stainless steel has its strength built-in. This is because it maintains form and functionality for many years even in hostile environments. Stainless steel thus becomes an investment in the long run since there is a lesser tendency to replace and repair.
2. Appearance
Stainless steel railings will make almost any style of design: from minimal and industrial, to modern and sophisticated; they add a shiny modern look. Polished stainless steel elegance and luxury offer a clean, shiny look that adorns both the indoor and outdoor settings. This can either be for the stair railings, balcony railings, or even in your outdoor deck, it is one of the very attractive yet very durable solutions regarding the aesthetic appeal of your house.
Also, the material used is steel, which is also versatile in design. You can combine that material with other elements like wood or glass for the other sets of railings that you will use. Stainless steel with glass panels allow one to have a full view that is not obstructed that could be great for those ocean front or scenic properties homes. A stainless steel has a very streamlined, minimalist profile in search of a very modern look that only best fits modern houses and structures.
3. Low Maintenance
Abundance in the use of stainless steel railings is also brought by its minimal or no requirement to maintain them. While compared with wood, it has to be sanded, stained, or painted regularly to avoid decay, stainless steel does not require this; its surface may just be wiped clean with mild soap and water to remove dirt, salt, or grime.
Since stainless steel does not rust or corrode easily, one is spared bother with routine treatments or pricey repair and refinishing. Only an occasional quick polish brings back the shine. Otherwise, stainless steel railings will endure exemplary wear with minimal maintenance saving time and money over time.
4. Safety and Strength
First and foremost, while considering the material for the railing, special safety considerations should be made regarding staircases, balconies, or decks. The stainless steel railing is very strong and would hold on to anyone leaning on or hanging onto it. Unlike these light materials, stainless steel can even withstand a huge pressure and impact without bending or breaking.
Other things being equal, stainless steel can be touched or leaned up because there’s an almost completely smooth surface free of edges. Families with little kids or pets appreciate their safety, and stainless railings will not splint, neither warp like wood for example. For commercial uses where it matters most in a particular place, to adhere to safety factors matters the most. This makes stainless steel railings such an essential thing to serve purposes as required.
5. Eco-friendliness
The material stainless steel is much more environment-friendly compared to the other non-recyclable materials because it can easily be recycled in full without degrading or weakening at the end of its life cycle. This reduces the further need for raw material, and this is how stainless steel railings ensure durability while adding up to sustainability, which becomes a tremendous factor for the conscious individual and business.
Except for that, stainless steel is non-toxic and will never leak toxic chemicals to the environment for ever. As much as stainless steel railings are very strong too, this yet saves more resources in the long run since you only replace them very few times as opposed to other materials.
6. Cost Factors
Though stainless steel is stronger and more beautiful than aluminum or wood and longer lifespan, it might not be cheap to start. The production cost and manufacturing cost is too high, therefore a high starting investment.
In large infrastructure projects we need to ensure that railing costs are not too expensive that is why we need to select a material that is strong, durable and comes in economical budget. Stainless steel railing can be deployed both for indoor or door railing purposes.
However, the cost of stainless steel and it may add value to your property can be offset against the initial cost. A property with stainless steel railings gives a very modern and elegant look that can be used as a sales pitch.
Disadvantages of Stainless Steel Railings
Apart from many advantages there are some cons while using stainless steel that are discussed as given bellow:-
- SS railing get Scratches and Fingerprints: Stainless steel when touched can get fingerprint marks easily that are highly visible due to polished surface. This is not a weakness in strength or function but might clean more frequently to remain sparkling clean.
- Cold Touch: Stainless steel railing can be quite cold. It can be very nipping cold especially in extremely high temperatures. This can be a demerit to someone seeing a house and wanting it to feel warm to the touch. That, however, is something that is easily substituted with the combining of stainless steel and other elements like wood that has a softer touch.
- Professional Installation: To have stainless steel railings work out all right, they have to be installed by professionals. Some Do It Yourselfers might erect some not so complex railings, but bespoke stainless steel designs will require precision in measurement, welding, and technical know-how.
Conclusion: Is Stainless Steel Suitable for Your Railings?
Durability and strength have remained the best attributes for aesthetic, low-maintenance requirements up until now. Stainless steel is a great choice for railings because it very well serves in residential, as well as commercial usage, especially in coastal places or in severe weather regions with absolutely splendid corrosion-resistant properties. Modern sophisticated looks, the improvement of property value after some years, and a minimum of upkeep, this is what stainless steel railings offer.
All said, though, the actual price must be weighed by how long the material stays strong. In case of railing materials, if someone looks for one that’s durable enough and does not demand much maintenance, he goes with stainless steel. A perfect investment that pays up by adding style as well as functionality to it.
If you want that railing style that is at the same time strong, fashionable, and low maintenance, then stainless steel would be the one to use.
