Aluminium Balustrade Guide : Pros, Cons and FAQs

An aluminium balustrade is a popular choice for both residential and commercial properties because of its durability, low maintenance, and sleek appearance. It is a functional and aesthetically pleasing addition to any property that can provide safety and security while also enhancing the overall look of the space. However, like any building material, aluminium balustrades have their pros and cons and it's important to consider all factors before making a decision. In this guide, we will explore the pros, cons, and frequently asked questions about aluminum balustrades to help you make an informed decision about whether they are the right choice for your property.

1. Why should I choose an Aluminium balustrade?

One of the main advantages of aluminium balustrades is their durability. Aluminium is a strong and sturdy material that is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it ideal for use in outdoor applications where it will be exposed to the elements. This means that aluminium balustrades can withstand harsh weather conditions and will not degrade over time, making them a long-lasting choice.

Another benefit of aluminium balustrades is their low maintenance requirements. Unlike some other materials, aluminium does not require regular painting or staining to maintain its appearance. This means that once your aluminium balustrade is installed, you won't have to worry about ongoing maintenance tasks.

In addition to their durability and low maintenance, aluminium balustrades also offer a sleek and modern appearance. They are a popular choice for use in contemporary buildings and can help to enhance the overall look of your property. Aluminium balustrades are also highly customizable and can be powder coated in a range of colors to suit your specific style preferences.

2. How do you install Aluminium balustrades?

Before beginning the installation process, it is important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. This may include things like screws, bolts, drill bits, a drill, a saw, a hammer, a level, and a measuring tape. You will also need to make sure you have enough aluminium balustrade components to complete the installation, including posts, rails, and balusters.

Once you have everything you need, you can begin the installation process by first marking out the area where the balustrade will be installed. This will help you determine the placement of the posts and ensure that the balustrade is straight and level.

Next, you will need to install the posts. This typically involves drilling holes into the ground or attaching the posts to an existing structure using screws or bolts. The posts should be spaced evenly and secured firmly in place.

Once the posts are in place, you can then attach the rails and balusters to the posts using screws or bolts. It is important to make sure that the rails and balusters are evenly spaced and properly aligned to ensure the balustrade is stable and secure.

Finally, you may need to attach any additional features such as handrails or decorative elements. These can typically be attached using screws or bolts, following the manufacturer's instructions.

3. Pros and Cons of Aluminium Balustrade

Pros:

Durability: Aluminium is a strong and sturdy material that is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it ideal for use in outdoor applications where it will be exposed to the elements. This means that aluminium balustrades can withstand harsh weather conditions and will not degrade over time, making them a long-lasting choice.

Low maintenance: Aluminium does not require regular painting or staining to maintain its appearance. This means that once your aluminium balustrade is installed, you won't have to worry about ongoing maintenance tasks.

Sleek appearance: Aluminium balustrades offer a modern and contemporary look that can enhance the overall appearance of your property. They are highly customizable and can be powder coated in a range of colors to suit your specific style preferences.

Customization: Aluminium balustrades can be customized to meet your specific design needs, allowing you to create a unique and visually appealing balustrade that fits your style and budget.

Cons:

Cost: Aluminium balustrades can be more expensive than some other materials, such as wood or vinyl. However, the long-lasting nature of aluminium may make it a more cost-effective choice in the long run.

Weight: Aluminium is a relatively heavy material, which may make it more difficult to transport and install than lighter materials.

4. Different types of Aluminium balustrade

Glass balustrades: These balustrades feature a frame made of aluminium and panels of tempered glass. They offer a modern and minimalistic look and can be used to create a seamless, uninterrupted view.

Cable balustrades: These balustrades feature thin cables or wires stretched between aluminium posts. They offer a sleek and contemporary look and can be used to create an open and airy feel.

Picket balustrades: These balustrades feature aluminium posts with horizontal rails and vertical balusters, similar to a traditional wooden picket fence. They offer a classic and traditional look and can be used to add a decorative touch to your property.

Custom balustrades: These balustrades can be designed and fabricated to meet your specific design needs. You can choose the style, size, and shape of the balusters, rails, and posts to create a unique and customized balustrade.

5. What is the Australian standard for Aluminium balustrades?

In Australia, the installation and construction of aluminium balustrades is regulated by the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and the Australian Standard for the Design of Balustrades and Stairways (AS 1170.1-2002). These standards specify the requirements for the design, construction, and testing of balustrades to ensure they are safe and compliant with building regulations.

According to the BCA, balustrades are required on any part of a building that is more than 1 meter above the ground, including balconies, decks, landings, and stairways. The purpose of the balustrade is to provide a physical barrier to prevent falls from the building, and it must be able to withstand a load of at least 1.5 kN/m.

The AS 1170.1-2002 sets out specific requirements for the design of balustrades, including the height, strength, and spacing of the balusters, as well as the materials that can be used. For aluminium balustrades, the standard specifies that the minimum thickness of the material should be 1.6mm for balusters and 2.0mm for handrails.

6. What are the 3 main advantages of extruded aluminium balustrades?

Strength and durability: Extruded aluminium is a strong and sturdy material that is resistant to rust and corrosion. This means that extruded aluminium balustrades can withstand harsh weather conditions and will not degrade over time, making them a long-lasting choice.

Low maintenance: Extruded aluminium does not require regular painting or staining to maintain its appearance. This means that once your extruded aluminium balustrade is installed, you won't have to worry about ongoing maintenance tasks.

Customization: Extruded aluminium balustrades can be customized to meet your specific design needs. They can be fabricated in a range of shapes and sizes, and can be powder coated in a range of colors to suit your style preferences. This allows you to create a unique and visually appealing balustrade that fits your specific needs.

7. What are the aluminium handrails and balustrades?

Handrails are the top portion of a balustrade that is used to provide support and guidance for people as they move around a property. They are typically made of aluminium and are attached to the top of the balusters, which are the vertical supports that hold up the handrail. Handrails are typically designed to be comfortable to grip and easy to use, and they may also be designed to meet specific accessibility requirements.

Balustrades are the complete system that includes both the handrail and the balusters. They are used to provide a physical barrier to prevent falls from balconies, decks, landings, and stairways, and they must be able to withstand a load of at least 1.5 kN/m. Balustrades may be made of various materials, including aluminium, wood, glass, and more, and they may be designed in a range of styles to suit specific design preferences.

8. How to clean Aluminium balustrade properly

Aluminium balustrades are a popular choice for both residential and commercial properties because of their durability, low maintenance, and sleek appearance. However, like any building material, aluminium balustrades need to be properly cared for to maintain their appearance and function. Here are some tips for cleaning your aluminium balustrade properly:

Begin by removing any loose dirt or debris from the surface of the balustrade using a soft brush or cloth. This will help to prevent any scratches or damage to the surface during the cleaning process.

Next, mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water in a bucket. Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the surface of the aluminium.

Using a soft cloth or sponge, gently scrub the surface of the balustrade to remove any dirt or stains. Be sure to pay particular attention to any corners or crevices, as these areas are prone to accumulating dirt and grime.

Once the surface of the balustrade is clean, rinse it thoroughly with water to remove any soap residue. Use a hose or a bucket of water to ensure that the entire surface is rinsed thoroughly.

Finally, dry the surface of the balustrade using a clean, dry cloth. This will help to prevent water spots and streaks from forming on the surface.

Overall, cleaning your aluminum balustrade regularly will help to maintain its appearance and ensure that it continues to function properly. By following these simple steps, you can keep your aluminium balustrade looking clean and shiny for years to come.