The Best Types Of Materials For Exterior Railings
Stainless steel railings and interior stair railings generally serve the same purpose, as they both help provide safer conditions for people using the stairs. The main difference is that outdoor railings are subject to weather conditions that typically require the use of different materials than those required for interior railings. Our specialty is custom made to order exterior railings for stairs, steps, porches, and balconies.
There are other considerations to keep in mind when choosing exterior stair railings. Some of these considerations may include the following: the design of the staircase, the corresponding color with the external walls and trim of your home, materials that will be resistant to weather and climatic conditions. There are a variety of materials available for outdoor stair railings with different advantages and disadvantages.
Types of materials for exterior railings
Wood and stainless steel railings for exterior
- For exterior stainless steel railings that feature a more classic and rustic look, many choose wood to match them.
- Wood railings can be polished for a more contemporary look, carved with a classic look.
- The more rustic look that comes with the natural stained wood grain look.
- Alternatively, these railings can also be painted. But almost without exception, these outdoor railings will need to be sealed to protect them from weather conditions like rain, snow, heat, and UV rays.
- Weather can not only detract from the natural beauty of wood railings, it can also deteriorate them and create splinters for people gripping the rails for safety.
Metal railings
- Durability
- Endurance
- Less frequent maintenance on your outdoor railings…
- You probably want to consider metal railings.
These railings can also be painted to match the colors and design of the exterior house. Although they are normally used for more contemporary designs. Some are simple and unadorned, while others can be pre-molded into various designs.
Metal railings
Wrought iron and stainless steel railings
Wrought iron railings are typically associated with elegance. You’ll often see them on outside stairs, near glass doors, and they’ll be painted to match the pastel shades of nearby walls and trim. Hollow bars made of wrought iron railings are generally chosen for a lighter and more delicate appearance. Less often, you’ll see stainless steel as an option for outdoor railing. These will generally need to be waterproofed to maintain their polished look.
Stone, marble or granite railings
The most classic look of all railings will generally be granite, marble, or stone. But these will almost always require a professional to railing installation. Not only are they heavier, but they are also more brittle and vulnerable to cracking and breaking. They will usually require special fasteners to hold them in place.
Aluminum, vinyl and fiberglass railings
For cheaper railings, you can usually rely on aluminum, vinyl, and even fiberglass resin to use when a smaller budget requires their use. Although these railings are often more durable in inclement weather conditions, they don’t provide the class and beauty that other stair materials do.