Are stainless steel railings for fences the highest quality solution? Why is the cost of installing stainless steel railings high? How is the installation of stainless steel fences carried out? Is there a possibility of combining stainless steel with other materials?
When it comes to terrace railings and fences, there is a wide range of materials to choose from. Available options include wood, steel, aluminum, PVC, and more. One of the best solutions is stainless steel, also known as inox. It is the highest quality and most durable solution among the mentioned materials, but not the most popular due to its high cost.
The price largely depends on the type of railing and the chosen elements for installation, ranging approximately from $50 to $250 per linear foot with instalation.
Why Are Stainless Steel Railings the Most Expensive Solution?
The high cost of stainless steel railings is, understandably, due to the fact that stainless steel profiles are quite expensive. Additionally, the price rises because the installation and manufacturing process of stainless steel railings is more complex and demanding. For example, working with aluminum is somewhat simpler because aluminum railings are assembled from pre-made segments on site.
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On the other hand, stainless steel railings are joined by both screws and welding, which is a more complicated process requiring grinding and polishing to achieve the expected result. Stainless steel railings are considered a premium solution for both interior and exterior applications, so aesthetics are high on the priority list.
To ensure the expected long lifespan of a stainless steel railing, it is crucial that all components are of high quality. All screws used for connecting elements must also be made of stainless steel, and the anchor bolts and fasteners must also be stainless steel. Otherwise, corrosion will eventually appear in certain spots, negating the use of expensive stainless steel.
What Are the Advantages of Stainless Steel Railings?
If all these requirements are met, you get a railing that is by far the most durable of all the solutions currently available. Due to its corrosion resistance, only aluminum can compare in terms of longevity, but stainless steel railings have the advantage because they offer better mechanical properties. They are sturdier, making them more durable over many years of use.
Stainless steel railings require no maintenance, except for cleaning as needed. Standard steel railings need to be periodically cleaned of rust and repainted. Stainless steel is immune to rust. Experts advise that in coastal areas, due to the increased salt concentration, special attention should be paid to the type of stainless steel used.
Another advantage of stainless steel is that the complete absence of corrosion not only extends the life of the railing itself but also eliminates the risk of rust stains on the building facade.
Manufacturers of stainless steel railings offer profiles in various dimensions, which can be square or round. There is also the option of choosing high-gloss stainless steel or a more discreet matte stainless steel, resembling brushed aluminum.
Combining Stainless Steel with Other Materials
Just like with aluminum, it is possible to combine stainless steel with other materials. The railing infills can be made from thin stainless steel profiles or tensioned steel cables, but transparency can also be achieved by combining with glass. For more privacy, stainless steel sheet panels can be installed, which can be perforated for aesthetic reasons. Infills can also be made from various wood-based panels.
It is very important that combinations are always made in a way that does not compromise the main advantage of stainless steel – durability. Therefore, all elements, for example, glass, need to be fastened with components (screws, brackets) that are also made of stainless steel.
Sources: StainlessFabInc, American Railworks