|
Aluminium |
Stainless Steel |
Framed Glass |
Semi-frameless Glass |
Frameless Glass |
Strand Wire |
Suitable for |
All applications |
Balconies, stairs, fencing, pool fencing |
Balconies, pool fencing, stairs, privacy screens, fencing |
Balconies, pool fencing, stairs, privacy screens, fencing |
Balconies, pool fencing, stairs, fencing |
Balconies, stairs |
Style/colour options |
Extensive range of designs and powdercoat colours.
Choice of handrails |
Option of stainless steel balusters or stainless steel with glass.
Choice of handrails. |
Extensive range of designs and powdercoat colours.
Choice of handrails. |
Extensive range of designs and powdercoat colours.
Choice of handrails. |
Fixed to aluminium channel or straight to concrete.
Extensive powdercoat colours for base channel.
Choice of handrails. |
Choice of handrails |
Safety |
Must not contain a ‘toe-hole’ or anything that enables climbing
A 125 mm sphere must not be able to pass through the balustrade openings. |
Same BCA codes apply as aluminium.
Very safe when paired with glass, as cannot climb balustrade |
Very safe, as cannot climb balustrade |
Very safe, as cannot climb balustrade |
Very safe, as cannot climb balustrade |
Need a lot of wires to meet current BCA codes, therefore can look very busy. |
Wind/Weather Protection |
Limited |
Excellent, when paired with glass. |
Excellent |
Excellent |
Excellent |
Limited |
Aesthetic Appeal |
Obstructed views |
Unobstructed views, when paired with glass.
Obstructed views with steel rods. |
Unobstructed views |
Unobstructed views |
Unobstructed views |
Obstructed views |
Maintenance |
Lowest maintenance |
Low maintenance (except in outdoor use in coastal areas or if paired with glass) |
More maintenance with glass (especially if you have small children) |
More maintenance with glass (especially if you have small children) |
More maintenance with glass (especially if you have small children) |
Low maintenance (except in outdoor use/coastal areas) |
Cost/Value for Money |
Inexpensive option |
Premium product |
Lowest cost glazed option |
Middle range |
Premium product |
Premium product |