Made up of a handrail, spindles, and a baserail, balustrades are vital elements of our staircases.
Primarily, balustrades serve as a safety barrier, preventing trips, falls, and potentially nasty accidents. But they're much more than this - they can provide the biggest opportunity for you to make a statement with your staircase.
But how do you design the perfect balustrade?
Our staircase design specialists at Pear Stairs reveal all you need to know in this ultimate guide!
There are several different styles of balustrades to choose from, including:
When choosing materials for your balustrade, it's important to weigh up the pros and cons of each, as well as your budget and design preferences, to help you make the best decision.
Glass, for example, offers unobstructed views and allows more light to flow freely through your hallway, making it feel much bigger and brighter, which is beneficial for those with a small, dark space. However, as one of the most expensive choices, it may not be ideal for those with a more limited budget.
Timber, on the other hand, is a much more affordable option and can be used effectively to add warmth and character to a range of interiors. However, it requires lots of TLC, like treating and varnishing, as well as regular cleaning, to keep it in tip-top condition - meaning it's not ideal for those who can't fit regular maintenance into their busy schedules.
Metals, like stainless steel and wrought iron, are a great choice if you're on the hunt for something durable yet stylish. There may be better options when it comes to safety, though, as it can be slippery when wet - reducing your grip and increasing the risk of slips, trips, and falls.
When designing your staircase balustrade, it's important to ensure you comply with all local building codes.
This means making sure that handrails are the correct height and spindles are spaced appropriately to prevent falls.
You should also use materials rated for load and impact. If you have small children or pets in the family, you should consider child-friendly design alterations, like vertical spindles or glass panels, to prevent them from climbing and hurting themselves.
Professional installation will ensure your balustrade meets all relevant safety standards, so this is definitely something to consider if you're concerned about safety.
Whether you want to find out more about materials or need help creating a safe, regulation-compliant balustrade, the Pear Stairs team would be more than happy to assist you.
With decades of experience in designing and manufacturing staircases, we're the best-placed team to offer advice and recommendations.
Get in touch with us today by calling 01938 553 311 or emailing [email protected], and we'll respond to your enquiry as soon as possible!
