Aluminum vs. Wrought Iron Railings

Aluminum vs. wrought iron railings: which should you choose? Whether you’re purchasing rails for your home or business, these two popular material options may stand out. After all, they both offer durability, aesthetic appeal, and a number of functional benefits. That said, they’re also quite different. To make the best decision for your space and your situation, scroll down. We’ll walk you through the pros and cons of both aluminum and wrought iron so that you can figure out which suits your style, budget, installation plans, and more.

Comparing Aluminum and Wrought Iron Handrails

If you want to compare aluminum vs. wrought iron railings, it helps to take it factor by factor . . .

Aesthetic Appeal

Your personal taste will impact how you assess the beauty of each of these railing materials, but most people agree that they’re both attractive options. Aluminum is sleek, modern, and timeless, and because it has a powder-coated finish, you can get it in a variety of colors to match your home or business’s architecture. Wrought iron, on the other hand, is a classic. Its elegant and often intricate design makes it a good fit for traditional and more decorative applications.

Durability & Strength

Both aluminum and wrought iron are known for their strength, though they are quite different in this area as well. Aluminum boasts a lightweight strength, and because it’s resistant to rust and corrosion, it’s a great choice for outdoor use, especially in humid or coastal environments. However, it’s not as strong as wrought iron, which offers superior strength. That said, wrought iron is susceptible to rust if it’s not properly maintained and it’s also quite heavy. In most circumstances, wrought iron’s strength could be considered overkill.

Maintenance Requirements

When it comes to maintenance, aluminum is the cream of the crop. It requires minimal maintenance, yet it won’t rust or corrode. To keep it looking clean and beautiful, you might wish to occasionally clean it with soap and a mild detergent — but that’s all! And even that isn’t strictly necessary. Wrought iron, on the other hand, does require regular maintenance; sanding, priming, and painting are all needed to prevent rust and corrosion. If you neglect this upkeep, your wrought iron railing will deteriorate.

Cost Considerations

Your budget may play a big role in which material you ultimately choose. Wrought iron is more expensive due to the more labor-intensive manufacturing and installation process. Its maintenance also adds to the cost. Aluminum is more affordable upfront and also has zero maintenance costs. If you want a strong and beautiful handrail that won’t blow your budget, aluminum is ideal.

Installation & Weight

You can’t talk about the installation of these handrail materials without also discussing their weight. Aluminum is lightweight and easy to install, which means installation is affordable — especially if you choose to DIY! Wrought iron is quite heavy, so professional installation is a necessity. The installation is more complex and time-intensive, which means it will inevitably be more expensive.

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Aluminum vs. wrought iron railings: which will you choose? To decide, you’ll need to take your aesthetic preferences, your budget, your maintenance expectations, and a variety of other factors into consideration.

We’re happy to tell you that if you’re interested in aluminum handrails, you’re already in the right place.

For top-quality aluminum outdoor handrails at affordable prices, visit Aluminum Handrail Direct. Our products are all made in the U.S. and backed by limited lifetime warranties. Whether you’re shopping for a residential or commercial project, you’re sure to find the perfect handrail in our selection. Do you need assistance locating the right product? Our expert team is happy to help. Contact Aluminum Handrail Direct today.