Railings are a widely spread architectural form. Since ancient times, architects have chosen to use them in a number of the most notable and world-famous buildings and monuments as the wide variety of railings offer functional and aesthetically pleasing solutions for every project they are used in.
We can say that, nowadays, some of the most common types of railings used in the construction industry are the glass railings and the metal railings (aluminum railings, steel railings, wrought iron railings). When we talk about metal railings, the most preferred ones are the aluminum railings because of the properties of the aluminum itself.
Before we point out the differences between the two types of railings (glass and aluminum), let’s see which are the similarities between them.
Anodizing is a process in which the aluminum is processed and a special protective layer is formed on the surface. With its help (the layer) the access of oxygen to the surface is limited, which in turn prevents aluminum oxidation. After anodizing, aluminum is not affected by external weather conditions such as sun, rain, snow, wind, salts and others. It also prevents the retention of dirt on the surface and discoloration of the railing (a common problem with iron railings).
Glass and aluminum railings are being mounted with the usage of anchors – chemical / concrete screws.
Bases made of bricks and aerated concrete slabs are not suitable for glass and aluminum railings as they cannot ensure the strength and durability required for safe usage.
There is a widespread misunderstanding and a lot of people and businesses mistake aluminum railings with glass panels with glass railings.
Yet another difference is that aluminum railings are mainly using vertical aluminum columns, which in a way limits the design possibilities. The glass railings use aluminum profiles (bases), glass holders (spiders), and stainless steel columns with top and side mounting.
An advantage of glass railings is that they can use the so-called point system to hold the glass. This is achieved with the help of special glass holders (also called spiders). They are made of stainless steel and can be used with all glass panel thicknesses which makes them a perfect choice for various projects that require side mounting of the railings.
These are some of the main similarities and differences between two of the most used types of railings. The choice of railing type usually is dictated by the desired final design or / and the budget which the customer is ready to allocate for the project.
Glass railings are a trend that is becoming widespread in the construction and building industry. The implementation of glass railings is not only limited to new buildings but is also often used for renovations and private projects of various sizes. Aluminum railings are still more widely used, they offer easier mount but are inferior to glass railings in terms of design and reliability.
We at Baros Vision can help you to choose the most suitable glass railing for your project. The wide variety of our own systems makes it possible to offer you a solution for your project and still be within the limitations of the budget you have decided.
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