Selecting new railings for the porch, the deck, the stairs or the balcony can be difficult. There are so many styles to choose from and if you consider custom designed railings then the number of styles is practically limitless. If you’re like most people you want railings that are aesthetically pleasing, strong, durable, safe and low maintenance. You’ll also want to be sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck. In which case your choices are narrowed to various types of metal. Below we’re going to do a quick comparison between aluminum and steel railings.

Choosing the Right Metal Railings for Toronto Homes

We’re omitting wrought iron from this head to head because we believe it to be in a category all its own. Which leaves us with the two other popular types of metal railings in Toronto: aluminum and steel.

• Installation – Aluminum railings are relatively light (when compared to steel and wrought iron anyway). And the less a railing weighs the easier it should be to install. Steel railings by contrast weigh considerably more than aluminum which typically means more men are required to set them properly. Also, if adjustments need to be made during installation it will be easier to do so to an aluminum railing than a steel one.
• Costs – 9 times out of 10 steel is going to cost you more than aluminum. There’s no doubt about that. But it’s also stronger and will likely last longer if properly cared for. Which one you choose for your home shouldn’t be based solely on price however, as there are aesthetic considerations that have to be taken into account.
• Looks – Aluminum and steel have very different and distinct profiles with aluminum actually being able to assume a more traditional aspect that mimics wood, while steel often feels right at home in a more overtly modern setting. Steel exudes a cool, rational air while aluminum is often considered a “warmer” material.
• Durability – Both aluminum and steel are extremely long-lasting so it’s difficult to categorically state that one is more durable than the other. It often depends on where the railing is installed and whether or not the homeowner is willing to invest in regular maintenance to keep their railings looking good and corrosion free.
• Maintenance – Speaking of maintenance… Stainless steel railings, especially when installed indoors will last for decades with only minimal attention. If they’re installed outdoors however you’ll need to keep an eye on them because their lustre will fade after lengthy exposure to the elements. Aluminum will also corrode if left on its own outdoors while indoors you’re going to need to pay more attention to them than you will stainless steel. How much more will depend on the finish of the aluminum.

There is no clear cut winner in this head to head simply because aesthetic considerations cannot be swept aside just because one may be easier to install than the other. To learn more about metal railings in Toronto call the experts at Master Iron.