While city living offers many benefits, one area where it is lacking is the provision of private outdoor spaces. Since most people living in large cities stay in apartments, gardens are not an option. Yet outdoor spaces are important to people’s health and happiness. For example, time outdoors has been shown to improve people’s immune systems, reduce stress, and lead to greater productivity and creativity.
It is for these reasons that many apartment owners are choosing to have balconies installed, and many who already had them are getting theirs upgraded to make them into more pleasant places to spend time.
One important consideration when it comes to balconies is the railing. This is essential for safety, but people also want it to be pleasing to the eye. By choosing carefully, there is no reason to compromise on either safety or aesthetics. Here are some top tips to help you choose the best railing for your balcony.
1. Look for durable materials: The biggest decision you will have to make about your railing is the material. This will have the largest impact on both the visual appeal and the durability of the railing. Durability is important to think about because worn railings will be less safe.
Railings with wooden features often look charming, but woods tend to weather easily. PVC and aluminium are practical modern choices that combine great aesthetics with safety and durability. You can check out Railsafe and similar sites to see the kind of styles that are available in these materials.
2. Think about maintenance: Safety features such as railings can help boost your home’s appeal and value, but they will do so to a lesser extent if you choose high-maintenance railing options. Wooden features, for example, should ideally be sanded and sealed every couple of years to stop them from rotting and breaking down. This may not be work you or any future buyers want to do.
Metals which are prone to rusting should probably also be avoided in favour of low-maintenance options such as aluminium and composite. However, be sure to inspect any balconies, decks, and balustrades around your home regularly to make sure they are still strong and safe regardless of the material they are made from.
3. Match the railings to their surroundings: The railing should be congruent with the overall aesthetic of your property and how you plan to enjoy your balcony. For example, if you expect to use it to enjoy a great view in the daytime, you might opt for cable railings which do not obstruct the view.
On the other hand, if you plan to use the balcony at night you might instead opt for railings with integrated ambient lighting. If it is a feeling of spaciousness you are after, glass panels are a popular choice. And if your building is a modern architectural marvel, you might want to consider a striking contemporary design.
If you’re looking to turn your balcony into an outdoor sanctuary in the midst of a crowded city, then gaining an understanding of different railing materials and their durability, customisability, and functionality takes you much of the way there. Use these tips to make sure you’ve considered all of the important features.
