Railings VS Banisters: What’s the Difference?

Banister, handrail, and railings are the technical terms in the railing business. Do you know what it is? What are the differences between them? Then, you may find out their differences when you are installing them in your house or business. Then, in this post, the author would summarize their differences in this post.  

In the definition, the banister refers to the structure formed by many vertical columns or solid parts located on the sides of the stairs. Then, it is mainly used for keeping people from risk of falling from the sides of the stairs. Also, the banister could enhance the support of the railings to ensure the handrail could withstand any weight.

The railings, also known as a handrail, is a material that is installed diagonally next to a staircase or ramp. The main purpose of installing the railings is to provide something to hold on to as people ascend or descend. In addition, the interior railing could give a continuous guide along the stair.

As for the material, the railings can be metal, glass, wooden, or any material you can think of. Then, stainless steel railing is currently popular in most families, because stainless steel is highly durable and easy to clean. Glass railing is widely used in commercial buildings. It belongs to the frameless railing which not only can provide the visitors with guidance but also could remain the design of the interior.

As above mentioned, many materials can be used for railings. It includes glass, wood, steel, stainless steel, PVC, etc. The stainless steel balustrade railing has superior strength and toughness. And, over time, the stainless steel surface would not produce a protective oxidation layer. The aluminum balustrade railing is lightweight and durable and is highly versatile with a sleek and stylish feel like no railing material offers.

The classic and standard interior railing consists of the top rail, intermediate rail, and posts. And, the standard height of the railing is 42 inches from the upper surface of the top rail to the floor.
 

Customized Railings

According to U.S. building codes, the balusters have no more than a 4-inch gap between them. In other words, the safe distance for banister railings should be 4 inches.

Since knowing the difference between the banister and railing, you may wonder what does that mean for your building project? If you simply want to give support as people ascend or descend the stairways, you can directly install the railing, And, if you want to prevent people from falling off of the side of a stairway, the banister is the ideal option.

Understanding the difference between railings and banisters could reduce your confusion about the railings system. If you are still not sure whether you should install banisters or railings, you can come to consult Chimgreen.
At Chimgreen, we’re dedicated to helping every client to get the right affordable aluminium windows and doors, and railings such as iron railing, glass railing, spigot railing, etc.