Whether indoors or outdoors, railings can protect you, your family and friends from high places. Every railing installed inside and outside your home must meet strict building code standards to ensure your safety. 

These requirements can include:

1.Railing height

2.Post Spacing

3.Materials

4.Fasteners

Railing system material can be：

Stainless Steel

When it comes to strength and durability, stainless steel is hands-down, the winner. Despite, stainless steel, is an expensive railing material.

Stainless steel railing systems can be made entirely of steel components of posts, top rails and pickets, or they can be combined with other materials such as cables and glass. However, the weight of stainless steel makes it difficult to install for the average by themselves.

Finally, stainless steel railings are almost maintenance-free and more resistant to corrosion (if properly maintained). Homeowners concerned about durability and longevity can consider options like the AISI316. They are suitable for corrosive environments near the ocean.

If you’re concerned about the look of a stainless steel railing system, it can be PVD coating in different colors. You need to make sure that the color you want is available in metal-compatible paint. Also, be prepared to repaint, especially outdoor railings.

Aluminum

Aluminum makes a great alternative to stainless steel. It’s better for DIYer because it’s lighter and easier to move and install than steel. In addition, aluminum railings also tend to be cheaper than steel, while sacrificing little strength and durability.

Many aluminum balustrade suppliers offer finishes in a variety of colors. Before the railing finishes in the color of your choice, it is pre-treated to help improve the overall corrosion resistance of the aluminum. The handling as well as the color options make them a flexible option to suit any design aesthetic.

Glass

From a maintenance point of view, glass inserts are relatively inexpensive to maintain. For exterior balustrades, you can clean them as often as you clean exterior Windows. However, they will become cloudy over time. For indoor applications, wash them as needed, such as when you find fingerprints after a guest visit.

Glass can be heavy and may crack during installation if not handled properly. Therefore, you are advised to hire professionals to manage the installation.

Finally, once installed, aluminum railings are virtually maintenance-free and have a greater life value than wood and vinyl. 

Cable

Cable rail systems are becoming more and more popular. These high-voltage cables are typically made of stainless steel to balance safety needs while limiting visual distractions. They are perfect for indoor and outdoor use.

Cable railing systems are suitable for almost any type of post material, including aluminum, steel, composite casing and wood.

Material choices, such as grade 316 stainless steel, make cable railings resistant to corrosion and ideal for seaside environments. Grade 316 stainless steel contains chromium, nickel and 2-3% molybdenum, which is resistant to pitting and corrosion of most chemicals, as well as salt water corrosion.

Also, like other metal railings, cables only need to be cleaned occasionally to maintain a good appearance.

The cable is relatively light compared to other railing components, and the hardware is fairly easy to use. However, the key to conforming cable railing systems is to achieve the necessary tension; You may need to hire a professional to install it.