 |
 |
 |
|
Ornamental Metal -- Railings
Custom welded aluminum handrails are lighter than other types of railing and aluminum does not rust. Standard paint techniques do not work well on aluminum, though it can be powder coated, creating a premium look for your project. Many leave their rails mill finish as the natural finish matches well with nearby fixtures. For this reason, aluminum railing systems continue to garner market share. Stainless Steel rail systems are treated in a manner designed to greatly reduce the tendency of iron to rust. The finish is much shinier as compared to the untreated metal, and is often confused with polished aluminum by the untrained eye. Railing fabricated of stainless steel is losing some share to aluminum as of late, but still remains an old favorite among many architects and designers.
Wood is an organic material, and as such is in a constant state of decay. Railing fabricated from properly treated metals will maintain its beauty forever. The cost of ownership, when amortized over the full life of the railing, is meaningfully lower for metal railing as opposed to wood.
Custom Welded Railing vs. Mechanical Railing Railing components can be assembled via mechanical connections or welded connections. Welded joints are generally stronger, resulting in a less flexible rail system, which leads to a longer life. Mechanical railing systems are less costly upfront, as they do not require an experienced welder to fabricate them, and they can be constructed more quickly. Welded railing systems are a hallmark of premium, high-end, exclusive projects, whereas mechanical rail cannot be matched in terms of upfront price.
Powder Coated Railing vs. Mill Finish Railing  Since it does not rust, aluminum railing can be left "mill finish", which is becoming more popular as it matches nickel and brushed aluminum fixtures. It is more economical from the outset and requires no maintenance to maintain its finish. Powder coating involves electrical charging the railing to be coated and then spraying it with dry powder flakes, which are charged with an opposite charge. The resulting attraction sticks the powder crystals to the railing, which then gets cooked in an oven, resulting in a uniform coating of paint. This technique of applying paint is expensive, though extremely durable.
Railing Considerations
Customer Profiles
|
|||||||
