5 Reasons To Choose Iron Railings For Your Raised Porch
Many homes feature a front porch or exterior entry that is raised a foot or more above the ground and is only accessible by a few steps. The raised porch can look naked without a railing. Railings also serve other purposes, from increased safety to providing curb appeal. Iron railings are an especially good option to consider, as the following illustrates.
1. Improved Safety
An iron porch railing can make your home much safer. Any raised porch can pose a fall hazard if there is no railing present. Iron railings prevent falls off the porch while still giving the porch an open and inviting appearance. The railing pickets do need to be close enough together to prevent children and pets from squeezing through in order to provide the most safety.
2. Extreme Longevity
Iron railings will likely be the last ones you will ever need to install, as they can last a lifetime or more. The metal itself is extremely durable and resistant to damage, including that from weather and exposure. Railings also can't be bent or warped easily, and the force required to do so isn't likely to be an issue on a front porch.
3. High Strength
The tensile strength of wrought iron railings can't be underestimated. This strength makes iron one of the most durable railing options for your porch. A heavy item hitting the railing, such as when moving furniture, isn't likely to cause damage. The railing can take plenty of weight, so even adults can lean against it without any concerns. In areas where wind storms and the resulting damage are a concern, the railing can help protect your porch against blown debris.
4. Minimal Maintenance
Iron railings aren't maintenance-free, but they are low maintenance compared to some other railing options. For example, wood railings require annual painting or sealing, while glass railings must be cleaned frequently. Other than rinsing them off, iron railings only need maintenance if the paint begins to peel. If you act promptly and repaint immediately, there is no other required maintenance. If the peeling is ignored, then there may also be some rust to sand off before repainting.
5. Design Options
Don't underestimate the design options with iron. You can paint the railings any color, although white and black are the most traditional. You can choose a simple modern design of clean lines, or go with a traditional design with filigrees and other decorative touches. There is an iron railing style to fit any type of home.
Contact an iron railing installer to learn more about the available options for your home.
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