Choosing The Right Balustrade For Your Home

A balustrade is a railing that is held up by supporting posts and is typically used on staircases, on balconies, around swimming pools, and as perimeter fencing. Balustrades can be a stunning addition to any home, adding boldness and beauty which can change the property’s appearance and offer a spectacular design wow-factor. Whether you are building a new home or looking to add something new to your current home, here’s what you need to consider regarding balustrading:

It Is Easy to Incorporate Balustrades in Your Home

Incorporating balustrades into your house is an easy fix with a little planning. Use these simple tips to get started.

• Make a design feature of staircases or balconies. Make sure your designs incorporate style and function that can transform your necessary safety feature into an incredible architectural statement.
• Cut out a picture of a representative balustrade in WA from a display home brochure or magazine and keep it in a file. In fact, you may want to cut out several and put together a folder for the styles you like and another for the styles you do not like. This is a great way for suppliers to get a more specific and personalised idea of what you are looking for.
• Head to a reputable supplier who has the product knowledge to guide you in your product selection and help you choose a suitable material and design for your home. Generally, suppliers will recommend tried and proven systems that will offer homeowners peace of mind. Furthermore, they may help you stay on budget or even save money with their alternative recommendations. Make sure the products you choose meet the relevant Australian Safety Standards and the BCA codes. You should never compromise on safety.
• Consider a price range or budget before you begin shopping.
• Take your house’s plans with you so that a supplier can see where the balustrades will be installed and the relevant dimensions.

Different Types of Balustrades

The most common types of balustrades are stainless steel, glazed, aluminium or a combination of the above materials, depending on if the balustrade will be used indoors or outdoors.

When choosing your balustrade there are a range of factors you will need to consider, including strength and durability, outdoor or indoor use, maintenance, safety, aesthetic appeal, and cost.

When you have decided you would like to install a balustrade, prepare answers to the following questions your supplier may ask:

• Do you have a particular style in mind?
• Do you want exterior or interior balustrading?
• Have you brought your house plans with you?
• What style is your home – modern, colonial, industrial-looking, contemporary?
• If you are building a new home, where is it? Is it near the coast? If so, external balustrades should be a marine grade, or powder coated, aluminium which will minimise maintenance. Check the conditions of the warranty.
• What materials will the balustrade be fixed to?
• Different kinds of staircase handrails – have you thought about combining materials? You can do so for a highly unique appearance.

Consider the above questions and options to choose the perfect balustrading for your home.