Are you looking for a barrier solution for your balcony, staircase, or office walkway? If so, a balustrade may just be the solution you’ve been looking for. Your next step will be to choose the most effective material that suits your space and, of course, your budget.
If you’re looking for a solution that’s not only transparent but also stylish and modern, then glass balustrades should make it to the top of your shortlist. Alternatively, if simplicity and affordability are key factors on your must-have list, then a more conventional aluminium approach may be better suited to what you need.
Defining Aluminium Balustrades
Simply put, aluminium balustrades are defined as low-maintenance safety barriers used for decks, balconies, staircases, and pool fencing. In a commercial setting, they can also be used to cordon off office walkways and as public area barriers.
These popular barrier solutions are constructed using corrosion-resistant, anodised or powder-coated aluminium and can feature vertical slats, glass panels, or Hampton styles. Aluminium balustrades are popular because they don’t rust or rot, and at the same time provide a long-lasting, low-maintenance alternative to steel or timber.
Furthermore, these variations are designed and constructed to meet Australian regulations, which include meeting a minimum height of 865mm for staircases and 1000mm for balconies. Specifically measured opening gaps between the slats ensure that small children and pets can’t accidentally fall through. Since these balustrades are highly versatile, it’s simple to mount them to concrete or timber.
Most professional installers have a variety of aluminium balustrades on offer. The more common options to consider include the following:
- Visor: Ideal for minimalistic design approaches, as this option doesn’t require welding and has 90mm gaps. Suitable for both traditional and modern settings.
- Barr: These have 50x25mm pickets with a “floating” look.
- Aire: These are powder-coated and can have pickets or slats and are excellent for adding as a renovation addition.
- Premium perf: This version boasts perforated aluminium panels that are highly durable.
Simple, but Effective Choice
There are a few good reasons why you should opt for a simple, traditional barrier solution such as aluminium. Our experts have listed a few of the more prominent.
Highly Versatile
One of the more common reasons to invest in aluminium as your material of choice is that it’s a highly versatile material that can easily be customised to suit any shape and size handrail. Furthermore, aluminium is also well-suited to complex and intricate designs where angles or curved patterns are needed. As we’ve already mentioned, aluminium balustrades can be installed at home as well as in commercial and industrial areas where walkways need to be cordoned off.
Maintenance is Quick and Easy
Another huge plus point to opting for aluminium balustrades is that all their styles are super easy to maintain and keep clean. In fact, it’s not uncommon to have an aluminium balustrade that can last for years without needing to be maintained.
This is in stark contrast to balustrades made from materials such as glass or timber. Over time, these materials may develop scratches or need to be treated with specialised oils and coatings to sustain their original appearance.
You won’t have this hassle with aluminium, which you can just rinse off or repaint every few years. Having your balustrade professionally installed will ensure that only the most durable materials are used, making it easier to maintain.
An Eco-Friendly Option
Ideally, every new addition to your residential or commercial space should be as sustainable as possible. This involves choosing a material that’s not only durable but also sustainable. Ultimately, this reduces the carbon footprint you use to improve your space, and you’re left with a material that can be recycled into something else if you ever want to upgrade or change the design.
Easy to Install
Certain balustrades can sometimes be challenging to install, especially if they need to be placed in an awkward position or you’ve selected a complex material. Fortunately, aluminium balustrades are one of the simplest materials to install. This is especially true if you opt for the recommended professional installation.
Your professional installer will not only use the right tools for the job but will also know exactly how to measure and fit each slat along the frame. You’ll also have the peace of mind that any specialised tasks, such as welding, painting, and powder coating, are done according to local legislation. This will leave you with a professional-looking balustrade that not only looks amazing but that you and your family, guests, and customers can safely use for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Adding aluminium balustrades to your residential or commercial setting will see you enjoying the many benefits that come with having durable and long-lasting barrier solutions. Some of the top reasons to opt for aluminium for your balconies, decks, or even indoor staircases include simple installation and easy maintenance.
In addition to this, aluminium balustrades are also eco-friendly and can easily be recycled at the end of their lifespan. Keeping your family, guests, customers, and pets safe on your property or in your home has never been simpler!