Stainless Steel vs. Timber Handrails: Which Option Should You Choose?

25 June 2021

Handrails are typically part of balconies, decks, and staircases as they can provide safety benefits to the people around a property. One safety benefit of handrails is that they provide support to the people who will be ascending or descending the staircases. They can provide a barrier to people who are around balconies and decks, preventing them from falling and injuring themselves. Children, the elderly, and those who might have some physical disabilities can all take advantage of handrails.

These essential components, however, can only be great if they are made from durable and long-lasting materials. Fortunately, the materials used for handrails often boast the mentioned features. Two of these materials are stainless steel and timber.

Both materials are great options for handrails. But if you need to choose between them, then you may want to consider some of their notable characteristics and potential drawbacks.

Stainless Steel Handrails

Stainless steel handrails have been used by many buildings and properties due to their remarkable strength. Even with a strong force, these handrails do not get damaged easily. They can even remain stable throughout their service life, which is truly helpful for people who have to rely on the handrails daily for the safe use of stairways. They are also long-lasting given the durability of the stainless steel material. With the proper surface finish, stainless steel handrails can easily withstand damaging elements such as heat and moisture. Corrosion will not be a problem with stainless steel handrails.

Cleaning and maintenance of stainless steel handrails are also easy and seamless. As long as they are painted or coated well, property owners do not have to repaint or reseal them again anytime soon. Cleaning is also not a problem as these handrails can be cleaned easily just by wiping some cloth that is soaked in cleaning product or disinfectant.

One possible downside of stainless steel handrails is that they can be expensive since they have to be processed and fabricated accurately.

Timber Handrails

Timber handrails, on the other hand, are preferred by owners of home properties due to their outstanding appearance and design. Their natural looks enable homeowners, their respective families, and even their guests to appreciate the handrails. The astonishing looks of the timber handrails can even blend well with the existing style of the properties, minimising the need for a revamp of the whole property aesthetic.

Stainless steel handrails may be more durable than timber handrails, but the latter can still resist elements from their surroundings. With proper cleaning and maintenance, timber handrails are expected to last for several years. They can likewise last longer if the right type of wood will be maximised. Local or native wood materials are often the best wood types for handrails and other vital timber components.

Perhaps, one more benefit of timber handrails is that they are lightweight. Timber handrails can be easily installed on home properties due to their weight and form factor. The integration of these handrails prevents home properties from dealing with extreme stress and force.

Both handrail options can be suitable for a lot of properties. If you want to acquire the best handrails for your property, just contact us at Planet Stairs.

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