What to Consider When Purchasing Rod Iron Railings

Rod iron railing can be a beautiful addition to your home, but there are a few factors you need to take into consideration before you purchase them. Rod iron railing is a great investment because it adds value, but the worry of planning and installing them need to be considered carefully. Here are a few tips for placing rod iron railings in your home to achieve the best effect.

Spacing

If the rails will be used for a staircase or on a balcony, the space between the rungs cannot be too large, otherwise an unsafe situation is created. This ensures that children and pets cannot fall from a large height, or get their heads stuck between the rails. An inspector can assist you in planning the installation of the rails and inform you what is a safe distance to have them spaced. He will most likely be called again after the rails have been installed to make sure it is up to building codes for your area.

Strength

The strength of your rod iron railings is unquestionable, but the posts that hold them together need to be just as strong. These posts should be thick and placed every few feet in order to maintain the strength of the iron. Placing posts this close together will protect anyone who leans heavily on the railing from bending it or falling over unexpectedly because the railing gave.

Look

The railings you choose can be a testament to your own personal style, but be wary of ornate rails if you have any plans to sell the house. Simplicity is the key to making a sale and if the owner does not like the railings you have chosen, that means more money in replacing them. This is not to say all decoration should be avoided, as some flourishes at the ends of the rails are fine, but avoid large ornate patterns and flowers to keep the possibility of selling your home to a broader audience open in the future.

Color

Rod iron railing is typically sold in black or darker colors, though there are finished products that look different. These are still rod iron, but they have either been painted, or they have been distressed in order to make sure they fit a certain style. You should not assume if you want to purchase railing, you will be limited in your color choices, since there are plenty available.

Where to Buy

When you finally decide on the color and style of the railings you want for your home, there are plenty of places to shop. Home decor and home improvement stores are popular options, but they are often overpriced due to dealer mark up. The best place to shop for rod iron railing is online, as there is a wide selection to help you find the style you want and it is often much cheaper than retail.