For several years now, there has been a lot of talk about the many advantages offered by aluminum outdoor structures. Many homeowners are therefore attracted to this durable and maintenance-free material, which is quite understandable! However, when it comes to choosing an aluminum railing model, there are many options on the market. So many that it can sometimes be difficult to navigate!
That’s why Balcons Verdun decided to offer you an article that will help you define your needs and choose the best railing based on them. After reading it, you’ll see that choosing your new railing will be much simpler!
Safety: the First Criterion for Choosing your Aluminum Railing Model
Even before looking at the visual aspect of aluminum railing models, you can guide your choice based on the different safety measures to be respected. Indeed, the Building Code provides certain criteria that must be met to ensure the safety of residents and passers-by.
These safety measures primarily allow you to define the height of the railing, which will vary depending on its function and location:
1. Ground Level and 1st Floor:
Although it may seem surprising, a railing installed on the ground floor must also comply with certain safety rules. Because even when close to the ground, there is always a risk of falls and injuries! Thus, if you need to choose an aluminum railing model that will be on the ground floor or 1st floor, a railing with a minimum height of 91.5 cm (36 inches) is required.
2. 2nd Floor and above:
Obviously, if the aluminum railing is located on a higher floor, the safety standards are also intensified. A height of 106.5 cm (42 inches) is therefore required for aluminum railing models installed on upper floors. This standard applies from the second level and remains the same for all higher floors.
3. For Pool Access:
In Quebec, the law requires that pool access points be well protected to prevent drownings and other unfortunate accidents. Thus, when choosing your aluminum railing model, keep in mind that pool fences and gates must be a minimum height of 1.2 m (48 inches).
Criterion Number 2: the Model and Aesthetics of the Aluminum Railing.
Now that you know the safety rules to follow when choosing your railing, you can finally choose your preferred railing model and its aesthetics. You then have the choice between two main categories of models: the aluminum railing with glass or the railing with aluminum pickets. Please note that each aluminum railing model can be modified according to your preferences, to create the perfect arrangement for your property!
When to Opt for an Aluminum Railing with Glass?
Very popular over the last 2 years, the aluminum railing model with glass is mainly used for:
1. Fencing a Pool:
Glass is indeed very practical for supervising children when they play in the pool. Choose safety without compromising on aesthetics!
2. Waterfront Properties:
This model is ideal for marking the boundaries of your property while preserving the charm of the place. You certainly don’t have to deprive yourself of your water view!
3. A Rooftop Terrace:
Once again, the aluminum railing model with glass allows you to combine safety and the “wow factor”!
4. A Restaurant or your Property’s Terrace:
No need for a view to admire to enjoy the very chic effect and ease of maintenance provided by the aluminum railing with glass!
When to Choose Aluminum Railings with Pickets?
Less spectacular than glass aluminum railings, aluminum railings with pickets can nevertheless blend wonderfully with the property. Their more advantageous price allows them to minimize expenses while obtaining excellent quality. For example, they are highly appreciated by income property owners who often have several railings to purchase.
Criterion Number 3: Options and Design of the Aluminum Railing.
As mentioned previously, you can fully customize your aluminum railing. Here are the choices you will have to make:
the Design of the Pickets:
If you choose the aluminum railing model with pickets, the possibilities are numerous! Different dimensions and designs of pickets are offered, and you have as many choices for the handrail (the support where you place your hand) as for the posts that will be at the ends of the railing.
Railing Colors:
To ensure your aluminum railing model perfectly matches your environment, we offer several color options for the metal. Choose from white, black, khaki, commercial brown, or charcoal!
Criterion Number 4: the Manufacturing Method of the Aluminum Railing!
Once you have chosen your aluminum railing model, you only have one decision left to make! Indeed, depending on your needs and the specificities of your property, 2 different manufacturing methods are offered.
“Mechanical” Aluminum Railings:
The term “mechanical” refers to an aluminum railing whose different materials are screwed together. When there are no constraints imposed by municipal standards or related to space, this is the standard model that is most often used.
Welded Aluminum Railings:
With this manufacturing method, the different materials of the railing are assembled by welding and there are no screws. Only slightly more expensive than the mechanical model, this aluminum railing is generally chosen when a city has requirements regarding heritage preservation. They allow for a look very similar to wrought iron, which is sometimes required in old neighborhoods, but without the rust! Furthermore, the welded railing allows for the creation of round sections and for stairs that take up less space!
Now you know everything there is to know to choose your aluminum railing model well! Feel free to visit our website to better visualize the different choices available to you or to contact our team with your questions! At Balcons Verdun, we are always happy to put our expertise at your service!
