Using Viable Materials for Handrails

STRONGRAIL^® was recently chosen by a private homeowner to replace traditional porch railing at his multi-storied beach residence close to Pensacola, Florida. He had prior experience in the commercial performance of pultruded fiberglass, and wanted a residential/commercial choice for his porch railings.

Key Features of STRONGRAIL^®

STRONGRAIL^® was chosen due to the fiberglass handrail’s durability of finish, engineered wind-load strength, and attractive appeal to builders, designers, and architects. The homeowner selected the 3" rounded top rail with 1" square picket system to wrap around each of the two enclosed porches. Applied as a concentrated load to the top of the post, this particular system can handle wind loads of 30 psf.

Advantages over Traditional Materials

When compared with traditional materials in areas with high rates of exposure to humidity and ultraviolet rays, the low-maintenance STRONGRAIL^® handrail is a cost competitive alternative because STRONGRAIL^® needs barely any maintenance.

The more traditional option of PVC lacks durability and strength within marine environments, although it is a popular residential fencing material choice. Lumber is prescribed as the material of choice in a lot of coastal applications. The exposure to direct sunlight and saltwater causes warps, splints, and even requires users to adopt a preventative maintenance regimen of frequent repainting/staining.

Even aluminum and steel systems succumb to discoloration, oxidation, and pitting when constantly exposed to heat, humidity, and brackish air. The homeowner has been very happy with the overall aesthetics and performance of STRONGRAIL^® at his coastal residence since its installation in 2017.

Technical Data

This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by Strongwell.

For more information on this source, please visit Strongwell.