When a homeowner wants custom railings for their home, there are several options. Take some time to learn more about the possibilities. Here are examples of types of custom railings. You can also use the internet to compare costs and quality.
Styles
When installing custom railings, you have several different options when it comes to style. Each style has its characteristics, and each will control the appearance of your railing. For example, a railing style may specify the height of the rails and the distance between posts and rails. It might also select different first and last posts or custom components.
Choosing a style is essential, as trends in design may shift from one year to the next. However, some classes remain timeless and continue to add value and beauty to homes. Traditional styles often incorporate Victorian-style ornamentation and feature solid and curved profiles. These designs are also quick to install and complement most interior styles.
Materials
The materials you choose for your custom railings can be essential for their aesthetic appeal and cost. Steel and wrought iron can make excellent materials for a railing. Both are strong and durable, but they do have disadvantages. Metals can rust, which decreases strength and appearance. It can also be costly to have railings galvanized.
Before choosing a material for your custom railings, do your research first. Learn as much as possible about the manufacturing process, the warranty, and the material’s durability. In addition, you should know which finish you want to choose. If you want a classic look, go for wood railings. However, wood can rot over time, so you need to pay attention to its maintenance. Alternatively, you can opt for aluminum, which is durable, weatherproof, and relatively easy to install.
Regulations
Several rules have to be followed when building custom railings. First, the railings must resist vertical and lateral loads. The railings also have to be investigated for their structural safety. This is determined by looking at the stability of the railing and its connections and anchor points. If necessary, invasive structural testing may be conducted.
Second, the railing must conform to local and state codes. The rules and regulations are different for residential and commercial buildings. For example, the laws and regulations are other for residential and commercial buildings. Also, the code differs between different states.
Costs
The cost of custom railings can vary widely. Prices are based on the railings’ style and finish, including material, fabrication, installation, and a one-year labor warranty. Prices are often more affordable for smaller railing jobs, but the more customization you need, the higher the costs.
When selecting a material for your railings, choose a material that will match the elements. For example, cedar wood is a popular choice, but it requires regular staining and maintenance, which can dramatically shorten the lifespan of the rail. Other cheaper materials, like treated wood, may be a good choice, but they often warp or twist, causing fasteners to pull out of place. Also, treated wood is not suitable for use with baluster connectors.
Another option for custom railings is prefabrication, which can help both the contractor and the customer save time. This method enables the contractor to use industrial shop tools and paint the railings inside a controlled environment before installing them on-site. This way, the custom railings can be made to the exact size and shape you want.
Installation
If you want a beautiful, custom railing on your balcony or deck, you should consider hiring a professional to install it. The pros will know how to install your railing and what materials are needed. For example, choosing quality materials and ensuring the area is level before applying adhesive to secure it. You can also visit home centers to purchase materials.
Custom railing installation can be a straightforward process. If you have some experience with metalwork and welding, you can save anywhere from $300 to $1,000 on labor costs. However, you may need special tools and materials, increasing the cost. Professionals charge per project and vary in price depending on the materials used pre-existing installations and the type of railing you’re installing.
