When it comes to choosing railings, Vaughan residents are spoiled for choice in terms of design. Railings form an important component of any renovated space, and can have a dramatic effect on the overall aesthetic of the space. There are so many interesting and attractive designs to choose from, and making sure you get it right can be one of the more enjoyable parts of the planning process. It is important, however, to give serious consideration to the material you choose for your railing design. Choosing the right material is not just about how it looks and feels – you need to consider the effects of wear and tear, and your expenditure in both the short and long terms. Here we’ll take a look at the best materials for railings Vaughan has to offer.
How Do Different Materials for Railings in Vaughan Compare?
Aside from how they look and feel, most buyers are interested in how much they need to spend on new railings. The overall cost, however, is never limited to your initial outlay. Most materials available for railings in Vaughan require some degree of maintenance, and some have longer lifespans than others. All of this affects the total amount you will spend on new railings. In terms of long-term savings, some materials are more attractive than others, and here’s why:
Aluminum Railings – These railings are popular in humid climates, as aluminum is a non-ferrous metal that is highly resistant to corrosion and rust. While it is more expensive than wood, aluminum typically requires less maintenance in the long run. It is not as strong and sturdy as some other materials, such as iron, for example.
Glass Railings – Certain homes are constructed in a way that means outside railings can obstruct the view from inside the house. One way of getting around this is to use railings built of transparent glass. They are not usually cheap and require regular cleaning, however. There are also a couple of hazards associated with glass railings – perhaps the obvious one is accidents and breakages. If you have pets or young children, serious accidents could happen easily. Sometimes the glass is broken by birds flying into it. A further hazard is the focusing and concentration of heat that can be trapped by the glass, causing the temperature to rise out of your control.
Wrought Iron Railings – These are probably the strongest and sturdiest railings you will find. They require little maintenance and last for many decades without having to be replaced. Modern wrought iron railings can be moulded into elaborate and beautiful designs which enhance the appearance of an otherwise bland exterior. In terms of safety, they are probably the best option for surfaces which may become slippery during the winter months.
There are, of course, many more options in terms of materials for railings, but if your main concern is long-term expenditure, wrought iron railings undoubtedly win the contest – all around us we can see examples of wrought iron railings built decades ago that still look beautiful and stand strong.