If you’re thinking about upgrading your home, one of the most important choices you’ll need to make is how to frame and secure your space. Your top options for interior fencing in Sydney are likely to be balustrades and railings.
Balustrades and railings are not the same, even though many people use the words interchangeably. Each has its own design, function and cost, and knowing the difference will help you choose the best option for your home.
Before making a decision, you need to understand how these two options compare. In this article, we’ll discuss both balustrades and railings in depth, we’ll talk about their key differences as well as which one might be the perfect fit for your home.
Balustrades
A balustrade is a type of barrier made up of vertical posts (called balusters) that support a handrail. They look like a row of small columns, all lined up and connected by a railing on top.
You’ll often see glass balustrades or other types of balustrades on balconies, staircases, decks, and even some bridges. They serve both a safety function, which is preventing falls, and an aesthetic one, as they can be made from a variety of materials, including glass, wood, metal and stone.
The term “balustrade” comes from the Italian word “balaustra,” which refers to the shape of the balusters, originally inspired by the blooming flower of the pomegranate tree.
Pros and Cons
Here are some of the pros and cons of balustrades:
Pros
- Enhances the aesthetics of any space.
- Available in various materials for different styles.
- Offers better visibility compared to solid railings.
- Provides a high level of safety.
- Can be custom-designed for unique architectural needs.
Cons
- Generally more expensive than railings, especially the glass and stone options.
- Requires more maintenance, particularly for intricate designs.
- More complex installation process compared to simple railings.
Railings
A railing is a broader term that refers to any horizontal or vertical barrier designed to provide support and safety. Unlike balustrades, railings don’t necessarily have balusters. They can be made of solid panels (such as glass or metal), cables or even a simple metal or wooden bar.
Railings are commonly found on staircases, decks, walkways, and platforms. While balustrades have a more traditional and decorative look, railings can be sleek and minimalistic, especially when made of glass or stainless steel.
Pros and Cons
The following are the advantages and disadvantages of railings:
Pros
- An affordable and practical way to stay safe.
- Easier to clean and maintain.
- Offers privacy if designed with solid panels.
- Fast and simple to install.
- Available in different materials to suit various aesthetics.
Cons
- Less visually appealing compared to balustrades.
- Can look plain and lack decoration.
- Fewer design options than balustrades.
Key Differences Between Balustrades and Railings
Here are the major distinguishing factors between railings and balustrades:
Designs and Appearance
Balustrades are often fancy and stylish. They are made to look beautiful while still keeping people safe. If you’ve ever seen a staircase with elegant glass panels, fancy metalwork, or wooden posts with carvings made by fencing contractors, that’s a balustrade.
Some balustrades have detailed patterns or decorations, while others, like frameless glass, give a clean and modern look. Many high-end buildings, hotels, and luxurious homes use balustrades because they add a touch of elegance.
Railings, on the other hand, are much simpler. They are mainly built for safety and not for decoration. Most railings have straight metal or wooden bars placed either vertically or horizontally.
Their main job is to act as a barrier, stopping people from falling off stairs, balconies or decks. They don’t usually have any fancy designs or patterns, making them look plain but practical.
Strength and Durability
Both railings and balustrades in Sydney are built for safety, but balustrades are usually stronger. Since they have more support posts and a solid structure, they can handle more pressure.
This is why glass or metal balustrades are often used in commercial buildings, shopping malls, and high-rise apartments. They can withstand strong forces, making them a safer choice for areas where many people walk or lean against them.
For added security, some property owners work with fencing contractors to ensure their balustrades are reinforced and compliant with safety standards.
Railings are still safe, but they may not be as strong as a full balustrade system. If a railing only has horizontal bars, it might not be the best option for homes with small children because kids can climb on them like a ladder.
Balustrades with vertical balusters or solid glass panels prevent this problem, and this is what makes them a safer choice for families.
Costs
Balustrades are usually more expensive than railings. Since they are designed to be decorative as well as functional, they require more materials and more work to install.
For example, a glass balustrade needs strong, thick glass panels, while a wrought iron balustrade requires detailed metalwork. Because of this, balustrades are often used in luxury homes, hotels, and office buildings where appearance is just as important as safety.
Railings, on the other hand, are more affordable. They are simple to install and don’t require as much material or labour. If someone wants a cost-effective safety barrier, working with home builders to install a simple metal or wooden railing is a great option. They don’t need much maintenance and are practical for homes, public spaces, and workplaces where looks aren’t the main concern.
Which is Better For Your Building?
Balustrades and railings both provide safety, but they serve different purposes. If you want something stylish and elegant, a balustrade is the better choice. If you just need a simple, budget-friendly safety barrier, a railing will do the job.
You can consult the fencing contractors at Boresi Fencing to discuss your considerations and preferences. We can help you make the right decision for your space.
One of the reasons to work with Boresi Fencing experts is that we understand how to stretch your budget without cutting corners. We provide the highest quality workmanship while keeping costs as low as possible.We will walk you through the design, material selection and installation process. Whether it’s for a home, business or public space, we’ll make sure you get a high-quality, durable solution that is best for your space. Get in touch with us today.
