Aluminum Deck Railings vs. Steel Deck Railings
Aluminum Railings, Deck Railings | January 3, 2023
Aluminum and steel are two of the most popular materials for deck railing systems due to their reliable durability and safety. While steel deck railings and aluminum deck railings share a few similarities, they also differ in many ways. Understanding these differences is crucial for determining which material is best for your deck railing needs and budget. That is why the experts at Vista Railing Systems have put together some information to compare aluminum deck railings vs. steel deck railings and demonstrate why aluminum is often the better choice for most homes.
Get the answers to some common questions about aluminum railing systems.
4 Factors to Consider When Comparing Aluminum and Steel Deck Railings
When comparing steel and aluminum deck railing systems, it is crucial to consider the following elements:
1. Aesthetics
While steel and aluminum railing systems feature similar appearances, it is important to consider how each material will look several months and years in the future. Steel railings, if not taken care of properly, can start to rust due to weather damage. Painted steel railings can also become chipped or faded over time due to sun exposure and impacts from deck furniture or other items, further reducing appeal. Quality aluminum railing systems feature a durable powder coating in various colours, allowing you to choose the perfect option for your needs and preferences without worrying about fading or weather damage.
2. Durability
Steel and aluminum are both known for being strong and durable materials. While steel is stronger, aluminum is much more malleable and features a higher strength-to-weight ratio. This means that it is less likely to be pushed to its limits during extreme temperatures. This is extremely beneficial when compared to steel, as it can become brittle in the cold and suffer various forms of damage that will reduce the usable life of the railing system.
3. Maintenance
Aluminum railings require little maintenance to continue looking like new for years to come. Since aluminum railings have a powder coat finish, they will never need to be repainted, have the powder coating reapplied, or require any special sealing treatments. They can simply be washed with soap and water whenever they appear dirty to return them to their original condition. Steel railings require a lot more attention and maintenance than aluminum railings do as they will rust over time if they are not regularly cleaned and cared for. Any rust that begins to develop on the steel railings will need to be removed as soon as possible or else it will corrode the railing, compromising its integrity.
4. Installation
Due to its heavy weight, steel railings can be much more difficult to install than aluminum railings. Steel railings also require the use of heavy-duty power tools to install, especially if they need to be cut to fit the shape and size of the deck. Aluminum railings, on the other hand, are lightweight and much easier to install.
To learn more about our aluminum railing systems or for assistance choosing the right option for your home, get in touch with our team. Vista Railing Systems can be reached at 1-800-667-8247 by phone or text and will be happy to help you choose the perfect solution for your needs.
Aluminum and steel are two of the most popular materials for deck railing systems due to their reliable durability and safety. While steel deck railings and aluminum deck railings share a few similarities, they also differ in many ways. Understanding these differences is crucial for determining which material is best for your deck railing needs and budget. That is why the experts at Vista Railing Systems have put together some information to compare aluminum deck railings vs. steel deck railings and demonstrate why aluminum is often the better choice for most homes.
Get the answers to some common questions about aluminum railing systems.
4 Factors to Consider When Comparing Aluminum and Steel Deck Railings
When comparing steel and aluminum deck railing systems, it is crucial to consider the following elements:
1. Aesthetics
While steel and aluminum railing systems feature similar appearances, it is important to consider how each material will look several months and years in the future. Steel railings, if not taken care of properly, can start to rust due to weather damage. Painted steel railings can also become chipped or faded over time due to sun exposure and impacts from deck furniture or other items, further reducing appeal. Quality aluminum railing systems feature a durable powder coating in various colours, allowing you to choose the perfect option for your needs and preferences without worrying about fading or weather damage.
2. Durability
Steel and aluminum are both known for being strong and durable materials. While steel is stronger, aluminum is much more malleable and features a higher strength-to-weight ratio. This means that it is less likely to be pushed to its limits during extreme temperatures. This is extremely beneficial when compared to steel, as it can become brittle in the cold and suffer various forms of damage that will reduce the usable life of the railing system.
3. Maintenance
Aluminum railings require little maintenance to continue looking like new for years to come. Since aluminum railings have a powder coat finish, they will never need to be repainted, have the powder coating reapplied, or require any special sealing treatments. They can simply be washed with soap and water whenever they appear dirty to return them to their original condition. Steel railings require a lot more attention and maintenance than aluminum railings do as they will rust over time if they are not regularly cleaned and cared for. Any rust that begins to develop on the steel railings will need to be removed as soon as possible or else it will corrode the railing, compromising its integrity.
4. Installation
Due to its heavy weight, steel railings can be much more difficult to install than aluminum railings. Steel railings also require the use of heavy-duty power tools to install, especially if they need to be cut to fit the shape and size of the deck. Aluminum railings, on the other hand, are lightweight and much easier to install.
To learn more about our aluminum railing systems or for assistance choosing the right option for your home, get in touch with our team. Vista Railing Systems can be reached at 1-800-667-8247 by phone or text and will be happy to help you choose the perfect solution for your needs.
