Balustrades Prices In Ghana

What Is Balustrades?

A railing supported by balusters, especially one forming an ornamental parapet to a balcony, bridge, or terrace.

A row of balusters topped by a rail Or It is a low parapet or barrier.

Balustrades are a common feature of properties all around us, we see them, encounter them and some of us have them in our homes, without knowing it.

We have them on staircases, terraces, balconies, roof tops and other places where there tends to be an edge with a drop. They are a row of columns with a rail on top. The term is derived from the form’s constituent posts, called balusters, a name coined in 17th-century Italy for the bulbous item’s resemblance to blossoming pomegranate flowers (balaustra in Italian).

The function of a balustrade can be to stop people from falling off an edge or staircase, to act as a barrier to property or a cordon. It is a means of self protection and controlling access.

A baluster style railing is on of the most popular types of railings for stairs. Baluster styles can range from the purely functional vertical steel pickets used in commercial steel stairs or bolted steel stairs to the ornate, hand-carved stone balusters found in ancient cathedrals. A spindle, one of the stair parts names that commonly gets confused with baluster, is a type of long, thin baluster.

History of the Balustrade

The balustrade is an architectural element that is still commonly used around the world today. The earliest examples appeared in ancient sculptural murals dating between the 13th and 7th centuries. In these murals, balustrades are seen lining the windows of Assyrian palaces. Balustrades were not used in ancient Greek or Roman architecture, but the Greeks and Romans are responsible for the balustrade’s inspiration, the colonnade, a series of large columns placed at regular intervals, usually supporting a roof or, in ancient times, a horizontal lintel called an entablature. Colonnades originate as far back as the classical architecture of ancient Greece, the most famous early example being the Parthenon, built in 447 BC. Both balustrades and colonnades are visually satisfying as well as structurally supportive, making them appealing for use in modern architecture.

While balustrades were not used by the ancient Greeks or Romans, they resurfaced in the late 15th century during the Italian Renaissance as architects sought to revive the aesthetically pleasing Classical architecture. The architects of the Italian Renaissance experimented with the Classical components, shrinking the colonnade down into the much smaller balustrade that has since enhanced architecture around the world. Balusters are a versatile architectural component and have been adapted to meet many needs. While historically, they were carved from stone, they have since been adapted to fit many needs and are made from a variety of materials including wood, metal, and stone.

Four Types Of Balustrades;

Metal balusters

Metal baluster applications

Metal balusters are a great option for industrial applications. Railings with a center mid-rail to meet IBC and OSHA building codes incorporate metal pipe or tube balusters.  

Metal balusters are also common in both commercial and residential settings and can be used indoor and out. Hollow tubes and pipes are best for interior stairs, while solid rods or bars are better for exterior stairs. Commercial picket railing is a type of baluster railing. 

Metal baluster advantages and disadvantages;

Pros

• Metal balusters are strong and durable.
• They can withstand the natural elements quite well and can last a long time even with exposure.
• Metal is malleable enough that it can be formed and made into different shapes and designs to achieve the desired look of the homeowner or contractor.
• With powder coating, a variety of colors of metal balusters are available, including satin black and antique bronze.
• Balusters made of metal are relatively maintenance free.

Cons

• Except aluminum which naturally resists corrosion, most metals rust easily unless treated. Steel can be galvanized or powder coated to protect against corrosion, while wrought iron balusters can be sealed and coated to prevent rust.
• Metal balusters tend to be more expensive than those made of other materials.

Wood balusters

Wood is one of the most popular materials for balusters. Wood balusters were popularly used in the past and are associated with more traditional, classic staircase designs. Today, wooden balusters can be combined with other materials, like metal or glass, to create a modern, sophisticated look.

Wood baluster applications;

Wooden balustrades are often used in more traditionally styled homes and in the interior of commercial buildings. However, they can also be used outdoors if treated and maintained correctly.

Wood baluster advantages and disadvantages;

Pros

• Since wood is a natural material, wood balusters bring a sense of warmth to the staircase.
• Many different wood species, including red oak and poplar, can be used for balusters. They can be stained or painted to match the surrounding environment.
• Wood balusters are available in a variety of shapes and styles including turned, fluted, twisted, braided square, octagonal, carved and more.

Cons

• While typically long lasting, especially if varnished or used indoors, wood can degrade or rot over time.
• Wood balustrades are susceptible to pests such as woodworm or termites, especially if used outdoors.
• Wood balusters are not as strong as metal or concrete balusters.
• To avoid problems like warping or pest damage, wood balusters must be maintained properly. Indoor balusters can be oiled and wiped, while outdoor railing must be sealed or treated to avoid damage.
  

Stone balusters

Stone baluster applications’

From terraces and porches to sweeping stairways, stone balustrades have been incorporated in fine architecture to create enduring elegance. Today, stone balusters are typically used in residences and commercial buildings, like banks and museums. They can be used both indoor and out.

Stone baluster advantages and disadvantages;

Pros

• Natural stone provides a genuinely beautiful appearance, while precast stone balusters are made in an assortment of stone-like colors.
• Natural stone balusters are extremely durable and can literally last for thousands of years.
• Railings made from natural stone require little to no maintenance.
• If used outside, stone balusters can complement the natural landscape nearby.

Cons

• Because of their heavy weight, natural stone balusters may be difficult or require special equipment to install.
• Natural stone balusters are more expensive than precast stone balusters.
• While precast stone balusters look and feel like natural stone, they are not as durable and are more prone to chip and crack due to exposure in outdoor environments.

Concrete balusters

Concrete baluster applications;

Concrete balusters are normally found outside of homes and commercial buildings. They can be used for porches, front entrances and stairs.

Concrete baluster advantages and disadvantages;

Pros

• Concrete is a very durable and sturdy material that guarantees a secure railing for decades.
• Precast concrete balustrades are naturally fire-proof and resistant to temperature changes.
• Precast balustrade systems are easy to assemble and install and show almost no seams when precast color matching caulk is used. Easy installation helps save time and money.
• Unlike railings made from natural stones, stainless steel and marble, concrete balustrades are less costly.

Cons

• With concrete balusters, a sealer needs to be applied from time to time to keep them waterproof and mold free.
• Cracks, which can appear over time, should be addressed immediately to keep the condition from worsening.
• Concrete balusters require regular cleaning to remove dirt, grime and other build up that can occur, especially if located outdoors.

Difference Between Railing And Balustrade?

A balustrade is a railing (handrail) and the row of balusters (posts) that support it. And yes, it is spelt “balustrade”, although it is commonly misspelt as ballustrade or balluster. A balustrade can also be known as railing, rail, banister, handrail and parapet.

Difference Between Balusters And Balustrades?

Balusters can be made of wood, iron, stone and other materials. The term baluster is interchangeable with the word spindle. A balustrade is comprised of an assembled top rail, balusters or spindles and often a bottom rail, posts, post caps, and decorative finials.

What Are Balusters Used For?

The Purpose of Balusters;

First, balusters support the handrail. Balusters also close the gaps between posts, acting as safety features by eliminating excess space through which someone could fall. Finally – and most obviously – balusters provide additional style and structural flair for your railing.

What does a balustrade look like?

Found lining many staircases and terraces, a balustrade is a row of small columns topped by a rail. The term is derived from the form’s constituent posts, called balusters, a name coined in 17th-century Italy for the bulbous item’s resemblance to blossoming pomegranate flowers (balaustra in Italian).

What is the purpose of a balustrade?

They sit between the handrail and stairs and are also known as balusters. While its main function is to provide safety when ascending or descending the stairs – it is the most important design element when renovating a staircase.

Here Are Some Prices Of Balustrades In Ghana;