The Difference Between a Horizontal and a Vertical Balustrade

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A balustrade will make your railings complete. While balustrades come in various materials, there are only two types of balustrades to choose from—vertical or horizontal. At first, there may be little differences between the two. However, if you’re priority is safety fencing or protection, then a vertical balustrade will work for you.

To help you decide on which one to get, we will be discussing the factors you should consider when choosing between the two types of balustrades.

Horizontal Balustrades

Horizontal is popular because of its versatility. Choosing this type of balustrade allows you to use any material for your railings. Which is practical if you are concerned about the design. It’s also the more affordable option because it comes with fewer connections.

The downside is they block the view. This is great if you want privacy, but if you want to enjoy a clear and unobstructed view, then a horizontal balustrade is not for you.

Vertical Balustrades

Vertical balustrades are often seen in many homes because they easily blend with balconies, stairs, and bridges. It also makes your home look more elegant and beautiful. Additionally, it’s the best choice when you’re considering safety.

They provide maximum protection and safety. They are also easy to maintain and dust or rust won’t build up on the surface.

The reason why many homeowners prefer this is because of the protection and safety it offers. If you have pets or little kids, vertical balustrades will give you peace of mind

Key Factors to Consider

Cost

What you should consider are the initial installation costs. Vertical balustrades have a higher installation cost than horizontal systems. If you don’t want to go over budget, then horizontal balustrading would be a more appealing option.

Maintenance

Horizontal balustrading tends to get stretched over time. Therefore, horizontal balustrades may require more maintenance. However, proper maintenance needs to be observed regardless of whether it is vertical or horizontal balustrades.

Aesthetics

There are several factors to consider as far as aesthetics are concerned. Some homeowners opt for vertical balustrades because it is less common in Australian homes. If you’re going to install a horizontal balustrade on your balcony, it will emphasize the length of your balcony.

Aesthetics are based on personal preferences, so what works for others might not work for you.

Height Restrictions

If you need a height of more than four meters, vertical wiring is recommended. You can also try custom-made balustrades to observe building standards while being able to match them with your style.

Conclusion

Have you already decided which one suits your needs? Hopefully, we helped you decide which one to get. The most important factor you should consider is safety. But the decision is up to you and your needs.

At Darwin Pool Fencing, we install high-quality balustrades. Our team is highly skilled and experienced. We guarantee that our balustrades stand the test of time. If you need more advice about balustrades, don’t hesitate to contact our team. Our Darwin fencing contractor would be delighted to serve you!