It shouldn’t come as a surprise to learn that outdoor projects continue to be popular for most homeowners out there. This is because the COVID-19 pandemic has created a strong demand for open-air spaces that are versatile and enjoyable to live in. Some of the prevalent trends that we’re seeing nowadays, related to decks, would fall into any one of the following three categories:
- Homeowners are opting for contemporary looks.
- Homeowners like to have maintenance-free materials.
- Homeowners are preferring to extend their home’s personality to the outdoors.
Hence, choosing the correct type of deck railing forms a crucial aspect of your deck project because you’ll only have one opportunity to create a unique outdoor space such as this. According to professional carpenters in Perth WA, aluminium and vinyl form two of the most popular deck railing materials. But, which one should you pick? Let’s find out.
Which Is Better Looking: Aluminium Or Vinyl Railings?
You must remember that vinyl railing cannot be painted, which means that the choice of colours will be severely limited. So, even though vinyl railings can last for many years, their colour will become dull after a few years. A white, chalky powdery substance will appear on its surface due to oxidisation. Furthermore, darker vinyl railings will fade in the sunlight. And since vinyl railings require structural reinforcements, obtaining a minimal design aesthetic will be impossible.
Alternatively, the aluminium railing also has a limited set of colours to choose from, but the colour is fade resistant. Moreover, aluminium has a sleek look, that helps in obtaining that minimalistic look for your deck railings. So, when it comes to appearance, aluminium deck railings are the better choice out of the two.
Are Aluminium Deck Railings A Better Performer Than Vinyl Ones?
As per a competent handyman in Perth, it should be known that vinyl railing is almost five times stronger than wood railings. Vinyl is also resistant to insects and rotting. Moreover, you can dye vinyl railings, which makes the scratches look less noticeable over time.
On the other hand, aluminium railings are also stronger than wood. And since aluminium doesn’t rust, it can easily withstand ice, snow, sunlight and rain. Moreover, most aluminium deck railings come with innovative pre-welded systems, that make the railings safe even in the harshest of weather conditions. So, when it comes to performance, aluminium railings surely take the cake.
What About Maintenance?
Vinyl railings will need to be cleaned with soap & water regularly.
But, aluminium railings are maintenance-free because they don’t rust, rot, crack or corrode. Moreover, aluminium can disperse heat properly, unlike vinyl, thereby making it non-expanding when exposed to sunlight – further enhancing its integrity & longevity.
All of the above-mentioned features make aluminium deck railings a better choice compared to vinyl deck railings.