What are Balustrades?: Benefits and Uses
Balustrades act as an appealing barrier that prevents people from falling off the side of a building or structure.
This architectural feature is found in various residential and commercial properties due to its beauty, safety elements, and functionality.
With a wide range of balustrades to choose from, there’s something for every preference. Today, WPS handrails will walk through everything you need to know about balustrades, including their benefits and uses, to help you make the right decision.
What are Balustrades?
Balustrades are sturdy barriers that provide safety around a staircase, landing area, or the edge of a building. They typically consist of a series of vertical supports, known as balusters, which are held in place by a top rail and a bottom rail.
While these are primarily used to prevent accidents and falls, balustrades are a large part of both traditional and modern interior design; they have been used for centuries, dating back to the 13th and 7th centuries BC.
With various designs to choose from, balustrades add depth to any interior and elevate the appearance of buildings, both interior and exterior.
The most common materials include:
- Glass balustrades: This transparent design increases light distribution, leading to a naturally bright interior. They’re commonly used in modern interiors for staircases, balconies, or terraces. With a choice between tinted, frosted, or clear glass, glass balustrades offer unobstructed views.
- Wooden balustrades: Wooden balustrades bring warmth and charm, often crafted in ornate designs for staircases or terraces. These are a classic choice for traditional or rustic settings. With proper care and maintenance, they offer both sturdiness and a timeless appeal.
- Metal balustrades: Due to their resistance to weather and corrosion, stainless steel and wrought iron balustrades are popular for both interior and exterior applications. Their sleek lines and strength are perfect for industrial or minimalist settings.
- Stone or concrete balustrades: Stone or concrete balustrades are popular choices for grand, historical, or exterior architecture. Their timeless appeal adds to the authentic beauty of old buildings, perfect for terraces and entryways.
Different Styles of Balustrade
Balustrades can be customised to fit a property's aesthetic and function, ranging from classic, intricate designs to sleek, contemporary structures.
Here are a few common balustrade designs and where they're best suited:
Traditional Balustrades
Traditional balustrades, typically made of wood, feature a simple and refined design. They fit well in modern or contemporary homes and add a soft and minimalistic touch.
Traditional balustrades may also feature hand-carved detailing and rich finishes that bring warmth and character to a home. For period properties, stone balustrades may be used to replicate old-time balustrade designs.
Modern Balustrades
Modern balustrades are commonly designed using metal and glass, achieving that sleek, open, and polished feel.
With streamlined designs and easy-to-clean surfaces, glass balustrades are low-maintenance and perfect for busy homes. They are the perfect choice for open-plan homes or those who wish to disperse natural lighting to dark spots in the home.
Ornate Balustrades
Ornate balustrades are typically reserved for grand buildings like hotels or homeowners looking to create an eye-catching staircase.
These are often seen on staircases, balconies, or false balconies, which are popular around windows in old buildings. Ornate balustrades are typically made from wrought iron and wood and feature intricate patterns and designs.
The Benefits of Balustrades
Whether you’re upgrading your home or renovating your office to appear more professional and sleek, balustrades bring an array of benefits.
Safety and Security
Above anything else, the sole purpose of a balustrade is to add safety and functionality to various properties (save from false balconies, which serve purely as decorative purposes).
This acts as a physical barrier, protecting young children and adults from falling off the edge. They are also used as a handrail on staircases, providing support when travelling up and down the stairs.
Adds Style
Balustrades enhance the visual appeal of any property, with a variety of options to suit different architectural styles.
This can add depth and character to any space, tying different elements of the room together.
Suitable for Interiors and Exteriors
The strength and durability of balustrades mean they can be used both indoors and outdoors, withstanding against harsh weather conditions.
Outdoor balustrades, frequently made of weather-resistant materials like metal, treated wood, or tempered glass, surround patios, terraces, and decks.
Increases Property Value
Balustrades can increase the resale value of residential properties; features like glass balustrades or stainless-steel railings contribute to a well-maintained, polished look that can increase a property’s appeal.
In commercial buildings, such as hotels or restaurants, stylish and functional balustrades can create a professional and welcoming atmosphere for clients and visitors.
Common Uses of Balustrades
While we’ve discussed the main uses and benefits of balustrades, here is a takeaway list of ideas for different application opportunities.
This includes ways to incorporate balustrades into both residential and commercial properties:
- Rooftop terraces
- Balconies
- Outdoor decks
- Staircases
- Landing areas
- Mezzanines
- Patio areas
- Garden pools
- Verandas
- Atriums
- Bridges
How to Choose the Right Balustrade for Your Space
When it comes to selecting the right balustrade for your space, there are some key things you need to consider:
1. Does the balustrade I've chosen match the design of my home?
- Glass and metal balustrades work well with modern interiors, while iron or wooden balustrades naturally fit with traditional interiors.
2. What is the intended use of my balustrade?
- Is it solely for decoration purposes, or is it needed as a safety element? If so, choose robust materials and a practical design.
3. Does the balustrade meet the building requirements and codes?
- Stair balustrades need to be at least 900 mm high, while balcony or terrace balustrades might require a height of 1,100 mm or more. To prevent children from falling through, the balusters must also be around 100 mm in diameter apart.
4. Is privacy a cause for concern?
- If you want to add a layer of privacy to a balcony or patio area, frosted or tinted glass is ideal.
Contact WPS Handrails for Your Balustrades Today
At WPS Handrails, we offer a wide selection of glass and metal balustrades for residential and commercial properties.
From semi-frameless glass balustrades to spigot glass balustrades, we’ve got something for every project.
Contact our team today; we’re here to help you find the perfect balustrade solution, providing professional advice, custom designs, and quality installation you can trust.