If you are looking to purchase a new railing system for your deck, you have likely been considering aluminum railings or wood systems. Though both options are popular, it is important to understand their differences. When comparing aluminum railings vs. wood railings, there are several key advantages that aluminum offers over wood systems. Understanding these benefits will ensure that you are getting the best possible solution for your needs. To expand on these benefits, the team at Build Rite LLC has compiled some information based on the comparison of aluminum vs. wood railings systems.
In most areas, cable railings meet and exceed building and safety codes. Cable railing is a reliable and widely-used railing option, and when installed properly, it’s very safe and effective.
Comparing Aluminum and Wood Railings
Aluminum and wood are both commonly used for railing systems, but they are completely different materials. Though wood has been used for decades, aluminum is a modern material that offers enhanced benefits in the following categories:
Durability
Our aluminum railing systems are powder-coated and built to last. Aluminum has an incredible strength-to-weight ratio that makes it a durable choice for nearly any environment. The powder coated finish is highly resilient and will not require any repainting, staining, or sealing. Wood, on the other hand, is susceptible to mold, decay, and rot. This means that wood is not a great choice for humid environments or climates with heavy rain and extreme changes in temperature. Wood can also crack or splinter, damaging paint and weakening the integrity of the system over time.
Maintenance
Wood railing systems require staining and paint to help protect them against the elements. They also require regular cleaning to reduce the risk of rot or damage to the paint. If the paint is damaged, it will need to be touched up. With no painting/sealing requirements, aluminum railings are virtually maintenance free and require little to no cleaning. This allows you to spend less time on maintenance and more time simply enjoying the view.
Installation
Our aluminum railing systems are lightweight and easy to install, reducing installation time and costs. Wooden railing systems are often heavier and require adjustments or additional cuts during installation, resulting in additional costs. Wood systems are often exceptionally difficult to install for most individuals. Our aluminum systems are designed for simple installation and feature detailed instructions for a hassle-free experience.
Stability and Safety
With aluminum railings, they can provide outstanding stability and security. The installations are straightforward, and the railings do not take much time to install. Aluminum railings are known for their strength, which means they can provide adequate support and will not be easily damaged by harsh weather conditions. Cable railing systems are heavy, so they will act as an anchor if there is an earthquake, allowing people to hold on to the railing during the earthquake event.
Appearance
Aluminum has been used in outdoor building applications since early times mainly because of its lightweight properties, which make it easier for anyone to move around. Its color is also widely used because it blends well with the environment. With a cable railing system, you can feel it’s heavy and make your stairs look unsightly. Therefore, you will not want that to happen to your stairs.
Installation Cost
The installation cost is one of the most important factors when purchasing safety railings. Aluminum rails are usually more expensive than cable railings. However, it’s still worth buying an aluminum railing system as it provides superior quality compared to plastic and metal railings.
Material Cost
Aluminum railings are lightweight, which leads to cheaper material costs. Aluminum railings are the most versatile option for any home or building construction because it does not only look good but also add a lot of value to your home or building.
Choosing The Best Railings
While wood does look good and can be inexpensive to use when building railing systems, it is however high maintenance requiring treating or painting every two or three years. This, in the end, can end up being a chore, safety vulnerability and an expensive venture. Wood is also a fire hazard and is under threat of spitting or splintering presenting a safety hazard. Aluminum, however, does not splinter and neither is it a fire hazard and thus tends to be a safer alternative. Besides, aluminum and especially powder coated aluminum requires no chemical treatment and hence safeguards health at no extra cost. The fact that it requires no treatments which might inadvertently find their way into the air or environment means that it is not a threat to the environment and human health.
To learn more about the benefits of cable, aluminium and wood railings, feel free to reach out to our team. Our experts Build Rite LLC can be reached through our online contact form and can answer any questions you may have.