Home owners are always looking for new ways to add style and flair to their outdoor projects, especially decks and railings. Custom benches, planters, and finishes are almost passé, but a truly unique twist can be found not only in balusters, but the type of construction material used for them.
First off, what are balusters? According to the architecture experts at About.com, a baluster or “balustrade” is defined as “a row of repeating balusters – small posts that support the upper rail of a railing.” At Toronto Decks and Fence Company, many customers are requesting balusters made from aluminum – often because it’s not a material most people would think of as a first choice.
Look and Feel
Let’s face it, when it comes to deck railings, most people take into consideration functionality rather than style. A deck railing serves a specific purpose; it keeps people from falling off a deck if they’re not paying attention or maybe had a little too much to drink. Consumers often equate style with money – as in, if it’s the latest style, then it’s more than they want to spend. But maybe it should be looked at the other way around. Aluminum balusters are not only stylish, but they’re extremely durable, can be designed with intricate design elements, and blend in with many different styles of decks, building architecture, or landscaping.
Practicality
One of the things we’re obligated to do is remind customers that aluminum balusters are more than a style statement. While they’re aesthetically pleasing and will cause more than a double-take by visitors, they are also stronger than their wood counterparts. This means they provide greater security when people and pets are on the deck, especially if it’s built several feet off the ground. This demonstrates responsibility on the part of the homeowner.
Accessorize
Besides adding to a deck’s overall safety, manufacturers have begun paying attention to trends and have started outfitting aluminum balusters with features that are truly useful, such as lights (regular, LED, low wattage, solar powered) and intricate carvings and architectural details one normally wouldn’t find in exterior deck railings. We fully support a homeowner’s sense of individuality and that a deck should emulate personal tastes, but we also advise our customers that “going overboard” with aluminum balusters or other deck accessories can be beneficial, especially if they’re thinking of selling their residence at some point.
For more information on aluminum balusters or other deck accessories, call Toronto Decks and Fence Company for a free consultation.