The Role of Material Choice in Handrail and Balustrade Design

A Specifier’s Guide

The design and construction of handrails and balustrades is a crucial issue that may expose an architect, designer, specifier, builder or contractor to expensive litigation if poorly thought out, executed, and especially if failure occurs. More significantly, there is a serious emotional and financial cost associated with injury, permanent disability, or death should this design element be overlooked.

Architectural handrails and balustrades are an essential part of the building design, so it is important to choose a material that complements your design goals. The end result must deliver on the design vision and satisfy the building owner’s design requirements. The selected material must be functional rather than merely decorative, perform in accordance with safety requirements, and live up to all expectations in terms of appearance and durability. Even the smallest details, such as delivering a flush connection and a smooth continuous rail, are all essential to avoiding injury.

To achieve these outcomes when selecting materials for a balustrade or handrail, it is important to consider the rail’s primary use, whether it will be used internally or externally, the environment in which it will be used, and the finish you want for your design.

Working with a trusted Supplier – Moddex

Moddex are Australasia’s leading manufacturer of modular, no-weld, hot dip galvanized barrier systems. Pre-engineered for structural integrity, their proprietary systems are load tested and configured to Australian and New Zealand Standards (AS/NZS), Workplace Health and Safety guidelines (WHS/OSH), Australia’s National Construction Code (NCC/BCA) and the New Zealand Building Code (NZBC).

Moddex has had the opportunity to work within diverse industry sectors. Having collaborated with clients across different industry spaces such as three-waters, education, multi-level commercial construction, road and rail, Moddex has been able to create unique solutions for different applications and environments.

Moddex have put together a Material Selection for Handrails and Balustrades: A Specifier’s Guide which discusses all the factors you need to consider when selecting materials for handrails and balustrades. First, we consider the importance of assessing site conditions and identifying materials that can withstand corrosive environments. We then consider the range of design considerations relevant to selecting materials for handrails and balustrades, including the intended use, fixings and connectors, structural properties, details and finishing, and aesthetics. Finally, we compare common handrail and balustrade materials, and their respective pros and cons.

Download the full guide to material selection for handrail and balustrade design by clicking the link below.

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