You’re thinking about upgrading your outdoor space, and specifically considering aluminum deck railings in Calgary. It’s a big decision with factors like weather, aesthetics and lasting value needing to be weighed. Maybe you’ve been putting off calling deck companies because you haven’t done the research on the best ones.
This guide provides practical insights to assist your selection process of aluminum deck railings in Calgary. Aluminum railings are known for their ability to take a beating from the elements.
Unlike wood, aluminum doesn’t rot or need constant staining and upkeep.
Why Choose Aluminum Deck Railings for Your Home?
Calgary’s weather can shift dramatically throughout the year. This is a city where you get to see all four seasons for their intensity.
Aluminum stands up strong against snow, ice, rain, and intense sunshine without degrading. This is a major benefit of using this versatile material.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Aluminum’s inherent properties make it resistant to corrosion and rust. This gives aluminum railings a major edge, because of the moisture, freezing, and thawing we get in Calgary.
Suppliers like to build their railings specifically to last. This lasting strength of aluminum provides long-term structural support, without requiring replacement of material.
Low Maintenance Benefits
Nobody wants to spend their precious weekend time doing outdoor maintenance. With wood railings, you’re committing to regular sanding, staining, and sealing just to fight a losing war of attrition.
Aluminum is different. A simple wash is all you need to keep them looking like they did when installed.
Design Options that Stand the Test of Time
There’s an aluminum railing that’s perfect for anyone in terms of aesthetics. Manufacturers create railings in different colors and looks. These can include powder coating for added protection and style, as well as stainless steel options for a modern touch.
| Aluminum Railing Styles in Calgary | ||
|---|---|---|
| Style | Description | Best For |
| Picket Railings | Vertical posts, many colors. | Traditional homes |
| Glass Panel Railings | Clear glass panels held by aluminum frame, variety of panel shapes | Homes with scenic views, modern |
| Cable Railings | Thin stainless steel cables run horizontally, gives modern open feeling. | Modern/minimalist style |
| Metal Railings | Offers a blend of durability with diverse design potential. | Versatile Applications |
| Custom Railings | Welded then built from scratch for you by suppliers for unusual designs | Unique needs/spaces, personalized ideas |
Different companies use slightly different design details. Finding someone you align with on their designs is part of the process.
Aluminum Deck Railings in Calgary: Installation Considerations
Installing a railing yourself presents the obvious potential downside of you not having an experienced team of installers taking care of it. You won’t need advanced equipment.
For most railings, companies use straightforward posts, panels, and connectors, with different approaches between brands. Some use a component based system. This makes it easier to repair, as if one gets scratched you only have to replace that one and not have to do a tear down.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Weighing the do-it-yourself path against professional installation is crucial. DIY may seem cost-effective initially, but the job may not be perfect if the task is outside your usual ones.
With professionals you get efficiency, accuracy, and peace of mind, despite increased initial costs. Professional installers can catch minor issues before they get worse and are well equipped to solve problems, if they do happen.
Having your aluminum deck railings installed by a pro ensures that they’re put in correctly. The use of proper tools, building materials, and a thorough understanding of techniques is the reason.
Understanding Building Codes and Safety Standards
Calgary has specific requirements for deck railings to keep everyone safe. Local rules require that railing designs, materials, and dimensions (for railing gaps, etc.) meet certain regulations for building new and making renovations to structures. These standards are crucial for safety and structural integrity.
The main intention of safety codes, as they relate to railings, are around safety. Working with experts helps prevent issues before they are revealed by an inspector later. Meeting these standards not only guarantees the longevity of your deck but also contributes to the well-being of those who use it.
Choosing the right supplier that offers various select options is vital for aligning with building standards. These may include special order items that are manufactured to meet specific safety and design criteria.
Exploring Options for Aluminum Deck Railings in Calgary
From finding providers, all the way to making design choices, being thorough upfront can help streamline the selection process. Different manufacturers have slightly different ways of doing things, based on customer requests and best engineering.
Comparing Local Suppliers and Manufacturers
Start with asking local suppliers if they use any specific partners to help fabricate what is needed for the designs.
Visiting a showroom lets you get hands on. Look for options with warranties and how involved projects are handled, from quoting all the way to delivery.
Consider suppliers that are locally owned, emphasizing their commitment to the community. You can learn a lot from asking to speak to their leadership team.
Customization and Design Choices
With customization you open up creative possibilities. Some of these would be with things like wind walls, staircase setups and combining elements in your environment that you wouldn’t normally connect in your mind. Options may include various colors like black sand or features to match your home’s interior finishings.
Some providers can adjust things like panel sizing, textures, heights and custom shapes. This includes adding decorative elements that help it complement your existing space or desired atmosphere.
It can extend beyond your deck to interior finishings as well, creating a seamless design transition. Things like your interior mouldings, shaker doors , or even barn/sliding doors. This can all work together, extending visual themes, for instance having door hardware that has a complimentary color and feel as what you did with the railings.
Cost Factors and Budgeting for Your Railing Project
Several factors dictate what you end up needing to pay in terms of final expenses. Basic picket models often come in the lowest on costs because they take the least effort to fabricate.
Premium systems and anything custom like a gate in an atypical shape can add expenses. While aluminum costs a premium to wood initially, the costs are different. This includes taking into account the benefits of powder coating for enhanced durability.
Consider options like treated lumber decking or advanced PVC decking for their own unique benefits. For example, bamboo decking could provide a unique aesthetic appeal.
Maximizing Your Investment: Maintaining Your Aluminum Deck Railing
Maintaining aluminum takes minimal work and effort. With your railings, it just becomes an extension of what you were already planning to take care of with a usual cleanup.
Cleaning and Upkeep Tips
Simple things like preventing debris from accumulating makes a difference to minimizing maintenance. For routine care of your railings all you need is to apply a hose of water periodically.
A bit of mild soap can break down things like pollen or bird droppings when hosing alone is not enough. Using non-abrasive products on aluminum can help you get to enjoy their looks longer. You may want to add deck lighting as well for ease of maintenance and safety.
Long-Term Value and ROI
Aluminum’s inherent value comes in that there is little chance for major unexpected expenses. When things go badly on older deck projects, the worst case scenario is it becomes unusable.
Aluminum offers predictability in long term costs. Its visual appeal will improve what others think of a property, increasing both the potential sale value and your own joy with the space. The wide array of available building materials opens up a whole world of opportunities when designing the look and functionality of a space.
FAQs about aluminum deck railings in calgary
How much does aluminum deck railing cost?
The cost will vary based on factors, the choice of style (picket, glass, or cable), height, the complexity of the design and if there’s unique design work involved in it. Working directly with a local manufacturer might save you money because their pricing may be more competitive. Options like black railing and those with multiple variants will affect pricing.
Is aluminum good for deck railing?
Aluminum is an ideal material choice for deck railings in Calgary. Its main appeal comes down to its blend of visual possibilities, without sacrificing ongoing care demands. This makes it perfect for both residential and commercial properties.
What are the disadvantages of aluminum railings?
Some higher-end options have higher initial expenses compared to simple alternatives. But, this often pays off in long term usage because there’s so much less to deal with over time with this kind of material.
When thinking about a major construction project like this, also think about complimentary needs too. Will your project also require spruce lumber , plywood/sheet goods or other building supplies. This also goes for renovations, like finishing a basement, you’d also have to consider interior elements too.
Are aluminum railings cheaper than wood?
The material and labor cost for aluminum is typically going to come in more expensive to begin with compared to basic pressure-treated wood. Aluminum’s savings show over time because it needs less ongoing repair. This long-term benefit is important when making a decision.
Conclusion
Aluminum deck railings in Calgary represent a wise approach to enhancing your space. It combines style, safety, and a reduced need for maintenance into one.
By thinking about aspects like designs, the company and their setup, as well as, local rules, property owners can make informed decisions. For those in Calgary, aluminum deck railing is a route to upgrading their outdoor living areas.