The best handrail materials depend on the purpose, position, and artistic appeal of the required handrail. The ideal handrail material for commercial use will be very strong, rust-proof, easily cleanable, and weatherproof. Handrails for domestic use will not be exposed to so much wear-and-tear so the material can be less durable and you can select from many different designs. If the handrail is to be located outdoors, you can check handrails here, the durability and resilience of the material is of the utmost importance.
Materials For Outdoor Handrails
Materials for outdoor handrails must be able to stand firm against the natural elements of rain, sand, snow, sun, and the wind to look great for a long time. Let’s look at the variety of materials that fit this description in alphabetic order.
Aluminium Handrails
Aluminium handrails are not prone to corrosion or rust, this makes aluminium a durable, long-term selection of material. aluminium works exceptionally favourably for commercial use because it can endure brutal use in addition to heavy traffic. The material has a long lifespan even under these conditions. One of the greatest advantages of using aluminium handrails is that they can be easily cleaned and disinfected with a single wipe.
aluminium can be the selected material for domestic installations as well because it is more affordable than stainless steel, yet so elegantly beautiful and durable at the same time. aluminium handrails are available in a variety of designs.
Stainless Steel Handrails
Stainless steel handrails are more durable than other materials on this list because they have high tensile strength. Stainless steel handrails have anti-rust properties that help them withstand many different weather conditions. Some of the weather conditions that stainless steel handrails can withstand include hail and the scorching heat of the sun. Stainless steel handrails come with a high price tag because of their durability.
The colour of stainless steel might not be easy to imitate by other materials on this list. Stainless steel handrails might not be the best choice if you are looking for different colours.
Wooden Handrails
Wooden handrails have a vintage look that can be incorporated into many different designs. Wood is a durable option but it requires regular maintenance. Wooden handrails can develop splits or splinters. Wooden handrails must be sanded and coated with a durable polish before they can be used outdoors.
Another concern with using wooden handrails outside is that if the wood is not treated properly it will not be able to withstand an extremely wet or humid environment. Wooden handrails are also difficult to manage if the design includes non-standard angles such as a joggle or an unconventional bend. Wooden handrails can warp if it receives constant sunlight and another part of the same handrail doesn’t.
Wrought Iron Handrails
Wrought iron handrails deliver a timeless look with the safety of a handrail. Wrought iron is a flexible material that is convenient if the staircase flexes or heaves. The only problem with a wrought iron handrail is that it is not rustproof. The wrought iron surface can attract moisture leading to rust.
Powder coating wrought iron handrails helps protect them from corrosion. Wrought iron handrails provide an antiquated look. Wrought iron handrails require regular maintenance to keep them in the best of shape.