Handrails vs. guardrails – there is no difference. Right? Not according to their definitions. Most people do not pay much attention to the handrails and guardrails that line stairs. However, ignoring railings completely is never a good idea for your home or business. Just ask your building’s inspector. A complete railing system that is reliable and maintenance free is an investment worth making for yourself and your guests. But how do you know which railing is best for your situation? In this post we will look at the key differences between handrails and guardrails.
Getting a Grip on When Handrails Are Required
Can you imagine walking down a steep set of stairs or inching toward a balcony edge without handrails? We often take them for granted, but railings are a commonplace safety feature in most homes and office buildings. They provide architectural interest and security in a multitude of situations. This guide provides you with highlights of when handrails are required as derived from the United States Access Board. However, because communities often adopt and then adapt this code, you also need to check with your local permitting agency before installing railing or guards. Staircase railing and guard construction (new or remodel) may also adhere to permit requirements. Furthermore, railings that must comply with ADA requirements have additional codes to follow that dictate characteristics such as the handrail height and wall clearance. Before you get started, get a grip on when handrails are, in fact, required.
[Read more…] about Getting a Grip on When Handrails Are Required
Powder Coating vs. Painting
When selecting a finish for your new handrail, remember that appearance is important – but it’s far from the only factor that counts. What about durability, maintenance, cost, and your impact on the environment? As you explore your material options, consider the differences of powder coating vs. painting. Which method best suits your needs? [Read more…] about Powder Coating vs. Painting
Aluminum vs. Steel Handrails
We often get questions from our customers about why they should go with aluminum vs. steel handrails for their home or business. We get it. You want to invest your hard-earned money in the right product. Let us help you wade through the research and reach a decision that makes the most sense for you. Today we are comparing the two materials according to their aesthetics, durability, maintenance requirements, ease-of-installation, and cost. The final decision is yours to make.
Touching Up Powder Coating
It’s tough, it looks great, and it lasts a long, long time. In addition to being durable, powder coating is an attractive choice due to its environmental advantages. For example, powder-coated metal products are more resistant to moisture, chemicals, ultraviolet light, and other extreme weather conditions. The coating acts as a protective layer that reduces the risk of scratches, chipping, abrasions, corrosion, fading, and other wear issues. Ultimately, touching up powder coating when it’s chipped is essential to the longevity of your product. Plus, it’s exceedingly simple to do.
How to Assemble an Aluminum Handrail System
An aluminum handrail system offers both safety and style, and there are countless situations where having a handrail handy is beneficial. Handrails along a stairway or ramp can help prevent a simple slip from turning into a tragic fall. Handrail systems can even be installed along lengthy stretches of hallway to provide extra security for those with limited mobility or balance issues. When you know how to assemble an aluminum handrail system, you have the power to make your home or business a safer, more accessible place. [Read more…] about How to Assemble an Aluminum Handrail System
Best Materials for Outdoor Handrails
Especially in certain areas of the country, the great outdoors – while beautiful and irreplaceable – can tear apart your belongings if you’re not careful. Mother Nature might take a swing at a window during a storm or bleach your building’s vinyl siding on a hot summer’s day. For this reason, we encourage you to peruse the best materials for outdoor handrails before making your final selection. Subjected to harsh weather conditions, these supportive structures must remain durable no matter what the world throws at them.
[Read more…] about Best Materials for Outdoor Handrails
ADA Handrail Requirements
If your building is not accessible to people with disabilities, you’ve got a problem on your hands. The standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) establish design and construction requirements that must be followed by public accommodations covered by the ADA. This includes all public and private businesses. Existing buildings must remove architectural barriers and new construction must be built to be accessible to individuals with disabilities. If your facility must comply with these standards, you will likely need to explore ADA handrail requirements.
Handrails play a crucial role in ADA-equipped facilities, after all, and are found above stairs, ramps, and some sloped walking surfaces. To better understand the purpose of ADA handrails and the demands they must meet, please scroll down.
[Read more…] about ADA Handrail Requirements
