Aluminum Railing Systems vs. Vinyl Railing Systems
Deck Railing Materials, Deck Railings | April 27, 2022
If you are looking to purchase a new railing system for your deck, you have likely been comparing various products and trying to determine which option is right for you. With so many railing styles, sizes, and materials to consider, it can be difficult to narrow your options down and make a final decision. As a leading provider of high-quality glass, cable, and aluminum railing products, Vista Railing Systems knows how difficult it can be to determine which option will provide lasting quality and appeal for your deck. That is why we have provided some information to compare aluminum railing systems vs. vinyl railing systems to demonstrate the benefits of aluminum and how it can suit any home.
Learn why you should choose aluminum railings for stairs.
4 Elements to Consider When Comparing Vinyl vs. Aluminum
When comparing vinyl railing systems to aluminum railing systems, it is important to consider the following elements:
1. Appearance
Both vinyl and aluminum are available in a variety of standard colours. Some of the more popular and common colours include black, white, grey, and bronze colours. VISTA also offers the option of custom colours to match just about anything. While vinyl systems can be painted durability of a powder-coated aluminum railing systems which provides a far more durable and resilient paint coating the paint found on vinyl systems. The colour options for aluminum systems can also suit any home design or colour scheme, making them a great choice for any setting.
2. Durability
While vinyl is more resistant to rot and insects than wood, it is more sensitive to extreme heat and can expand/warp over time. In addition to being immune to rot and insect damage, aluminum railing systems are exceptionally durable despite their low weight, allowing them to withstand harsh snow, ice, rain, and prolonged UV exposure without issue. Unlike other metal materials, aluminum also will not rust, corrode, splinter, or crack, ensuring lasting appeal, durability, and safety.
3. Maintenance
While both options require less maintenance than wood, a quality aluminum railing system with a powder-coated finish will only need to be cleaned once or twice a year with soap and water to keep it looking like new. Vinyl railing systems will need to be cleaned every 3-4 months depending on the colour/design to maintain their appearance.
4. Cost
Vinyl can be a relativity cost-effective railing system option, but this low cost comes at the price of a shorter usable life. While aluminum railing systems are typically more expensive than vinyl, they are one of the most durable options on the market. Aluminum may require a slightly larger investment up front, but their increased usable life and reduced maintenance requirements more than make up for this.
To learn more about our selection of aluminum railing products or for assistance choosing the perfect solution for your deck, get in touch with the team at Vista Railing Systems. We can be reached by call or text at 1-800-667-8247 and will work with you to determine the perfect solution for your needs.
If you are looking to purchase a new railing system for your deck, you have likely been comparing various products and trying to determine which option is right for you. With so many railing styles, sizes, and materials to consider, it can be difficult to narrow your options down and make a final decision. As a leading provider of high-quality glass, cable, and aluminum railing products, Vista Railing Systems knows how difficult it can be to determine which option will provide lasting quality and appeal for your deck. That is why we have provided some information to compare aluminum railing systems vs. vinyl railing systems to demonstrate the benefits of aluminum and how it can suit any home.
Learn why you should choose aluminum railings for stairs.
4 Elements to Consider When Comparing Vinyl vs. Aluminum
When comparing vinyl railing systems to aluminum railing systems, it is important to consider the following elements:
1. Appearance
Both vinyl and aluminum are available in a variety of standard colours. Some of the more popular and common colours include black, white, grey, and bronze colours. VISTA also offers the option of custom colours to match just about anything. While vinyl systems can be painted durability of a powder-coated aluminum railing systems which provides a far more durable and resilient paint coating the paint found on vinyl systems. The colour options for aluminum systems can also suit any home design or colour scheme, making them a great choice for any setting.
2. Durability
While vinyl is more resistant to rot and insects than wood, it is more sensitive to extreme heat and can expand/warp over time. In addition to being immune to rot and insect damage, aluminum railing systems are exceptionally durable despite their low weight, allowing them to withstand harsh snow, ice, rain, and prolonged UV exposure without issue. Unlike other metal materials, aluminum also will not rust, corrode, splinter, or crack, ensuring lasting appeal, durability, and safety.
3. Maintenance
While both options require less maintenance than wood, a quality aluminum railing system with a powder-coated finish will only need to be cleaned once or twice a year with soap and water to keep it looking like new. Vinyl railing systems will need to be cleaned every 3-4 months depending on the colour/design to maintain their appearance.
4. Cost
Vinyl can be a relativity cost-effective railing system option, but this low cost comes at the price of a shorter usable life. While aluminum railing systems are typically more expensive than vinyl, they are one of the most durable options on the market. Aluminum may require a slightly larger investment up front, but their increased usable life and reduced maintenance requirements more than make up for this.
To learn more about our selection of aluminum railing products or for assistance choosing the perfect solution for your deck, get in touch with the team at Vista Railing Systems. We can be reached by call or text at 1-800-667-8247 and will work with you to determine the perfect solution for your needs.
