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Handrail pickets, also known as balusters, are vertical rods that connect the handrail to the stair or deck. They serve as support for the handrail and are essential for the safety of people using the staircase. The different types of handrail pickets include the following:
Traditional Balusters
These balusters are thin and long. They are usually made of wood, and their top has a rounded knob. The traditional pickets have a complex design and are set between the handrail and the stair treads. They provide support for the handrail and prevent people from falling through the gap between the handrail and the stairs. Traditional balusters are common in older homes, though they can also be found in modern homes.
Boxwood Balusters
Boxwood balusters are square-shaped pickets that have a hollow box-like shape. They are a replacement for the traditional round balusters and are commonly used in modern homes.
Wrought Iron Balusters
Wrought iron pickets are made from iron and have various designs. They can be painted black or have a shiny finish. Wrought iron pickets are durable and add a classic look to any home. They are commonly used in homes with a traditional or modern design.
Glass Balusters
Glass pickets are transparent and provide a modern look to any home. They are made from toughened glass and are usually framed with metal. Glass balusters allow light to pass through and are excellent for homes with limited natural light. They are commonly used in contemporary homes or spaces where an open and airy feel is desired.
Metal Balusters
These pickets are made of metals such as aluminum or stainless steel. They are long-lasting and need little maintenance. Metal balusters have a sleek, modern look and are good for homes with a contemporary design.
Picket Fence Balusters
These pickets are short and have a similar design to a fence. They are good for outdoor decks and porches and add a rustic feel to any home. Picket fence balusters are an excellent choice for homes with a farmhouse or cottage style.
Safety:
Handrail pickets help prevent accidental falls, especially in high places like decks, balconies, and staircases. They fill the gaps between the handrails and the ground, acting as a barrier and protecting people from falling.
Support:
Handrail pickets provide a stable structure. They can support a significant amount of weight, ensuring that handrails remain secure and safe for people to hold onto while climbing stairs or moving across decks and balconies.
Regulations:
Pickets ensure that structures comply with safety regulations and building codes. These codes are designed to ensure the safety of individuals and are enforced in various residential and commercial settings.
Property value:
They enhance the value of a property by improving its aesthetics and ensuring safety. A well-maintained and visually appealing picket fence or railing can increase curb appeal and attract potential buyers or renters.
Materials:
Handrail pickets are made from various materials that can be customized to suit specific needs and preferences. Popular materials include wood, aluminum, vinyl, glass, and wrought iron. Wood gives a warm, traditional feel and can be tailored to fit different styles. Aluminum is lightweight and requires little maintenance. Vinyl is a low-cost, low-maintenance alternative to wood. Glass offers a modern, sleek look that maximizes views and natural light. Wrought iron is sturdy and provides a classic aesthetic.
Design styles:
Handrail pickets come in various designs and styles to suit different architectural themes. Traditional pickets are straight and simple, while turned pickets have a spiral shape. Square pickets are contemporary and clean-lined, and round pickets are classic and elegant. On the other hand, geometric pickets have a modern, angular appearance, and wrought iron pickets have intricate, painted designs. The design style of pickets can significantly affect the overall aesthetic of a space.
Spacing:
The spacing of handrail pickets is crucial for safety and visual appeal. Building codes often dictate the distance between pickets to prevent children from squeezing through. Closely spaced pickets offer better safety for kids but may block views. More widely spaced pickets improve sightlines but must meet safety regulations. The color and finish of pickets can also impact the overall appearance, with white and black being popular choices.
Handrail pickets have several applications. Here are some of them:
Stairs and Balconies:
Handrails and pickets are installed on the staircases and balconies. They provide safety, support, and structural integrity. People can hold the handrail when climbing up or down the stairs. It gives them stability and support. Pickets are vertical infills. They fill the gaps between the handrails and the deck. Pickets prevent people from falling through the gaps on the stairs. They also keep children and pets safe.
Decks and Verandas:
Handrails and pickets are installed on decks and verandas. They are also called porches. The handrails and pickets create a safe environment. They prevent people from falling off elevated surfaces. They also ensure compliance with building regulations. Most building regulations recommend safety standards for decks and verandas. The standards ensure that handrails and pickets can withstand pressure.
Commercial and Public Buildings:
St commercial and public buildings, handrails and pickets are very important. They help to move people safely. These include shopping malls, offices, schools, hospitals, and airports. Handrails without support are dangerous in these areas. It is easy for people to slip or fall, which can cause serious injuries. So, handrails and pickets are a must-have for these buildings.
Indoor and Outdoor Settings:
Handrails and pickets are used in indoor and outdoor settings. In indoor applications, handrails and pickets are functional and decorative. They are used on staircases, hallways, and loft areas. In outdoor settings, handrails and pickets are exposed to weather elements. They are built to be durable and stable. Examples of outdoor applications are decks, patios, and porches.
Choosing the right picket is not all about aesthetics; it involves considering some practical elements. Here are some factors that business owners should consider when choosing pickets for their clients.
Safety regulations and building codes
Business owners should ensure that their customers install handrails that comply with local safety regulations and building codes. These regulations differ depending on the location and are influenced by factors such as the type of property, occupancy, and building height. Customers should consult their local authorities to get the appropriate information on the regulations to be implemented.
Material durability and maintenance
The material used to manufacture handrail pickets plays a major role in determining their longevity and maintenance. Different materials have different weathering abilities and require different maintenance levels. For instance, vinyl and metal offer low maintenance, while wood requires regular maintenance to enhance its longevity.
Aesthetic and architectural style
Pickett owners should choose pickets that complement the architectural style of the building or home. Modern homes are better off with minimalist-designed pickets, while traditional homes are better off with classic pickets. Choosing handrail pickets that blend with the home's interior design creates a cohesive flow of the entire space.
Functional requirements
Different functional requirements determine the suitability of different types of handrail pickets. For instance, solid pickets provide better privacy and security than glass or wrought iron pickets. On the other hand, glass pickets are suitable for homeowners who want to enjoy an unobstructed view.
Customization options
Customers who want to install handrail pickets that offer unique features should consider the available customization options. Business owners should ensure they have different design elements, such as colors, finishes, and materials, to provide customers with an opportunity to customize their handrail pickets.
Q: How should handrail pickets be maintained?
A: The maintenance of handrail pickets depends on the material. If the handrail is made of wood, it should be sanded and repainted or resealed every few years. If it is made of metal or vinyl, it should be washed with soapy water to remove dirt and debris.
Q: What are the building codes for handrail pickets?
A: Building codes require that the space between pickets should not be more than 4 inches to prevent children from getting their heads between pickets. They also require that a handrail should be 1.5 inches wide and that the top of the hand picket should be 34 inches from the floor.
Q: What are the trends in handrail pickets?
A: The trending handrail pickets are modern, minimalist, glass, and horizontal cable pickets. They are popular because they offer an unobstructed view of the staircase and complement modern home designs.
Q: How much do handrail pickets cost?
A: The cost of handrail pickets varies based on the material and design. Glass pickets are generally more expensive than wood or metal pickets because of the cost of the glass material and installation.
Q: What is the average lifespan of handrail pickets?
A: The lifespan of handrail pickets depends on the material used. Wood pickets last for 20 years, while vinyl and metal pickets can last for 30 to 40 years. Glass pickets can last for a lifetime because they are durable.
