Which Material Should I Choose for My Staircase Balustrades?
It's important to weight up the benefits of the different materials, here are some tips to point you in the right direction
Whether your home is sleek and modern or old and full of character, a little know-how can go a long way when you’re deciding which balustrade is best for your home upgrade. It isn’t just looks that come into play – durability, cost, and rules and regulations should all be factors in your decision-making process. We’ve done some of your homework for you, so take a look at the examples below and you’ll be one step further towards making a smart selection.
Glass is no barrier to light flow between rooms and levels – a definite plus. On the flip side, glass panels show up every smudge and fingerprint, and require far more maintenance than their timber or metal counterparts.
If you have a clever architect working on your design, he or she may well suggest glass as a way to show off a staircase as an architectural feature.
Before you set your heart on glass as the best choice for you, don’t forget to think about cost – quality glass balustrades are usually on the high-end side. And be sure to factor in the extra glass required for turns around landings in a stairwell.
See how to make your stairs special
See how to make your stairs special
Metal
Metal staircases can work just as well in an industrial space as they can in a more traditional or modern home, and can deliver a lighter-looking result than timber.
Metal staircases can work just as well in an industrial space as they can in a more traditional or modern home, and can deliver a lighter-looking result than timber.
Openings between banisters must be narrow enough not to permit a 100mm sphere to pass through it. That way, no one’s head can get stuck.
Check out more spiral staircases
Check out more spiral staircases
Metal can add decorative touches to a staircase more effectively than any other material, especially if you’re going for an elegant or quirky look.
The choices are endless with metal. These panels combine nicely with timber for an up-to-the-minute look.
This stylish option combines the best of all worlds – timber, metal and glass. The glass wall on the right eliminates the need for a rail on both sides.
A metal screen achieves the same aim at this house. If you’re considering a wire balustrade, keep in mind that wire must be stainless steel and have a minimum diameter of 3.2mm. The maximum space allowed between wires is 100mm.
The wall serves as the balustrade here; all that’s required is a simple handrail. This look lets the lovely timber stairs steal the show, and stairway lighting ensures they look as good in the evening as they do during the day.
Timber
Wood has retained its popularity for a reason – it’s strong, versatile, easy for designers to work with and adds timeless appeal to any house. It can also be an inexpensive option if your renovation budget is tight – pine is a far more affordable option than hardwood, although it is softer and, therefore, less durable over time. Paint can add even more versatility to this balustrade option and the colour can always be updated.
Wood has retained its popularity for a reason – it’s strong, versatile, easy for designers to work with and adds timeless appeal to any house. It can also be an inexpensive option if your renovation budget is tight – pine is a far more affordable option than hardwood, although it is softer and, therefore, less durable over time. Paint can add even more versatility to this balustrade option and the colour can always be updated.
Opting for timber doesn’t mean you can’t have a stylish staircase. This one is a standout.
Just as glass isn’t off limits for an older house, timber shouldn’t be dismissed as an option for the most modern of homes.
TELL US…
What do the balustrades in your home look like? We would love to see a photo in the Comments below.
TELL US…
What do the balustrades in your home look like? We would love to see a photo in the Comments below.
Although modern homes are an obvious choice for glass balustrades, don’t make the mistake of assuming you can’t choose glass for your home if it’s on the older side. Regardless of the space they occupy, glass balustrades keep a home looking beautifully light and airy.