A metal railing isn’t a risk; it is a durable, attractive, and timeless product that could be a great addition to your home or business. From reliable aluminum to colorful copper, there are a lot of options – options that can be overwhelming if you’re new to the exterior construction game. We’ve created a beginner’s guide to metal railings to help you choose the right railing for your project and keep it in good condition.
The Proper Handrail Height
From young children to fully grown adults, handrails assist people of all heights and abilities. You might have memories of reaching up high to grasp a handrail as a child, or maybe even attempting to slide down one when your parents weren’t around. Now, years later, as an adult, you might find your hand has been conditioned to automatically reach for a certain spot to find the handrail as you ascend stairs or a ramp. You can thank the International Code Council (ICC) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for this, as they set guidelines for the proper handrail height for residential and commercial buildings.
Where to Use Handrails
Wondering where to use handrails? Although this may seem like a daunting task, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) have laid out very detailed standards regarding the installation of handrails. Although they’re somewhat easy to overlook, handrails are an important safety consideration that can help make your building more accessible, comfortable, and welcoming.
If you’re exploring how handrails might fit into your new construction or renovation project, you can rely on the expertise of your contractor, architect, or engineer. These experts can help you understand where to use handrails, how to select the right railing product, and other safety considerations you need to keep in mind. To start these conversations with a little knowhow, review the information below.
How to Maintain an Aluminum Handrail
So you’ve made the decision to invest in an aluminum handrail for your business or residence. Great! Aluminum handrails are incredibly durable – they don’t rust like steel, and they don’t break down even after years of use. However, just like any other structural investment, you’ll need to know how to maintain an aluminum handrail to keep it looking great and functioning well for years to come.
When Are ADA Handrails Required?
If you’re installing a handrail at your business, it’s easy to become distracted by color and style options. However, handrails are crucial when it comes to making your business or public space accessible for individuals with disabilities. For that reason, it’s important to make sure you’re complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). So when are ADA handrails required? Read on for more information.
What to Look for in a Handrail Warranty
A handrail is both an aesthetic element and a safety feature. You want to feel confident that it will retain its attractive appearance and its integrity, so knowing that your handrail comes with a robust warranty is reassuring. However, not all handrail warranties are created equal. When shopping, it’s wise to take the time to read the details of the product’s warranty. Do you know what to look for in a handrail warranty? [Read more…]
Effects of Salt Water on Aluminum
It’s common knowledge that salt water doesn’t tend to play nice with metal, so you don’t have to be an expert sailor to guess that the effects of salt water on aluminum can be a little unpleasant. However, aluminum boats are a popular choice among anglers, pleasure boaters, and watermen, so this particular metal can clearly handle exposure to salt water with proper care. In fact, aluminum can be a smart choice whether you’re planning to make waves in a boat or enjoy the ocean breeze in a seaside home with aluminum handrails. [Read more…]
How Strong Is Aluminum?
If you were asked to name a strong metal, would aluminum spring to mind? It’s unlikely. After all, Superman is known as the Man of Steel, and Ironman doesn’t fight evil by donning high-tech aluminum armor. Of course, perception and reality are often very different. Just how strong is aluminum? While this material is used for countless applications, that question is not often explored, and answering it can be surprisingly tricky. However, one fact is clear: Aluminum is the metal of choice in many situations because it’s strong enough to get the job done. [Read more…]
Types of Railings
Merriam-Webster defines a railing as “a barrier consisting of a rail and supports,” but anyone who has spent a little time contemplating the possibilities that these functional features offer understands that railings can be more than the sum of their parts. That’s why there are two distinctive types of railings. Selecting the right railing for the situation ensures that you’ll enjoy the perfect blend of purposefulness, practicality, and aesthetic appeal. [Read more…]
Painting an Aluminum Handrail
Aluminum handrails are low-maintenance, sturdy, durable, affordable, and available in an impressive range of styles. They’re a popular choice for interior and exterior spaces where a convenient handhold is desired. If you’re renovating or freshening up one of these spaces, you might be intrigued by the notion of changing the handrail’s appearance with a coat of paint. Is painting an aluminum handrail an option? It is certainly possible. However, it’s probably not your best choice. [Read more…]
