The Italian Renaissance architects transformed buildings in the 15th century by emphasising symmetry, proportion, and geometry. They were the first to employ balustrades to blend elegance and functionality.
Balustrades have come a long way since then. People are increasingly implementing a wide range of diverse balustrade designs to increase the value of their balconies, steps, decking, pools, and so on. Balustrades appear in several styles due to their versatility, each with its own set of unique benefits:
Mesh Balustrades
These balustrades are great for those who are looking for an eye-catching yet cost-efficient option. Available in a wide array of colours and styles, mesh balustrades are perfect for balconies and stairs. They have no concealed fasteners and are therefore easy to install.
Wooden Balustrades
For those looking for a beautiful addition to their home or office, wooden balustrades are a great choice. While wooden balustrades are much more expensive than other options, they can be customised to fit your property’s interior, an added benefit that cannot be overlooked.
Aluminium Balustrades
With their durable, weatherproof frame and strong, sturdy construction, aluminium balustrades are the perfect choice for balconies and terraces. In addition to its utility, aluminium balustrades come in a range of shades, colours, and styles, making them a desirable option for a diverse range of consumers.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel balustrades are not only aesthetically pleasing, but are also extremely durable and reliable. Available in a wide range of styles, stainless steel balustrades are popular amongst those who are looking for a contemporary and premium quality option.
Glass Balustrades
Glass balustrades, as the name suggests, are translucent, adding a modern and relaxed feel to your property. Consisting of various designs, glass balustrades are ideal for those looking for an eye-catching and alluring addition to their home or office.
Where’s the Best Place to Install Balustrades?
If you’re thinking about adding a new balustrade to your home, you need to decide on the best place to install it. There are several factors you need to take into consideration to make the right choice, including safety, practicality, and aesthetics:
Balconies
Balconies are typically placed at the end of a deck or a terrace. Because of their exposure to the elements, balconies need additional support, making them a prime location for balustrades.
For improved aesthetics, many people opt for wooden balustrades, which are beautiful and last a lifetime. Wood is one of the most popular choices for amateur and DIY homeowners, as it’s easy to install and requires no maintenance.
Stairs
Stairs are an ideal location for balustrades. They add a unique aesthetic to your home, and can also improve the safety of your property. While there are a number of different balustrade options available, aluminium and stainless steel are the most popular for stairs.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, aluminium and stainless steel balustrades are extremely durable and require little to no maintenance. They can also resist the effects of heat and frost, making them reliable options for balconies and stairs.
Decks
Decks are great photo opportunities, making balustrades a popular choice for those looking to enhance their outdoor space. Wooden balustrades are the most popular option because of their inherent beauty and ease of installation.
While wooden balustrades are elegant and can last for decades, they require more time to install. Stainless steel and aluminium balustrades are a better choice for amateur and DIY homeowners as they are more cost-efficient, easy to install, and require little to no maintenance.
Pool Fences
If you’re having trouble making up your mind, a balustrade fence can be a good option for you. A balustrade fence consists of a combination of balustrade rails and balusters, which are decorative supports. Because of their limited size, balustrade fences are not only cost-efficient, but also easy to install.
In addition to their ease of installation, balustrade fences are also very effective at preventing children from falling into the pool.
Conclusion
If you’re considering installing a new balustrade on your balcony, stairs, deck, pool, etc. make sure you get a balustrade that complements the design of your home. At the end of the day, balustrades are aesthetic additions to your home that can make it more appealing.
If you’re planning on putting stainless steel balustrades on your home or commercial space, you’re going to need the help of a reliable supplier and installer. Bear Metals are an award-winning manufacturer of steel and aluminium balustrading and canopies. Our team can easily supply, deliver, and install the balustrades however you want them to be. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.