It is understandable why you would pick stone steps for your home. Stone has a rustic feel to it that can make every property look so much better. After all, stones are mostly used in castles, right? Therefore, it carries with it an air of grandeur. Today, they come in various styles and shades you can choose from.
One of the challenges with stone steps is choosing the right outdoor railing for it. Stone is a unique material, which means that it won’t go easily with the railing style. Additionally, it needs special care and attention when it comes to installation.
In this post, we will share some important things you need to remember when choosing outdoor railings for your stone steps.
Style
The style of your stone steps can influence the type of railing you choose. As mentioned, it comes in various colors and types, but it can clash with others. For example, rough stone will work best with a simple railing system with, as much as possible, no design at all. On the other hand, if you want a railing that comes with a design, you can pair it with a smooth stone.
Installation
As mentioned, railing installation for stone steps requires extra care and attention. This is because most of the time, the railing must be drilled into the stone and filled in around to secure the posts. If the drilling isn’t done right, the stone may crack, which can cause bigger problems down the road.
The two most common methods of installation are:
- Fascia installation: This type of installation ensures the faceplate attached to the stone is wide enough for equal load distribution on the railing. Once the bolt holes are drilled and fastened, the space around the bolt is filled with quick-setting epoxy cement and cured.
- Surface installation: This involves boring holes to anchor the posts, which must be done carefully to avoid cracking the stone steps. Once the hole is bored and the bolt put in, the space around the bolt must be filled with epoxy as well.
Safety
Stone, especially smooth stones, can get slippery. Therefore, a sturdy railing is crucial. For maximum safety, and if you have a smooth stone, choose a railing system with a top rail that is either made from powder-coated steel or narrow wood. Top rails provide enough handhold that adds more safety.
Material
Three railing materials are suitable for stone steps, such as:
- Aluminum: This is perfect for stone steps because aluminum material is strong and comes in simple and sleek styles. It provides a safe grip for a railing, and it is one of the most affordable railing systems today.
- Steel: This is ideal for stone steps because of its polished, clean, and expensive look. There are also some railings that come with adjustable panels that can be attached to any type of railing post.
- Glass: This type of railing material can make the stone stand out. However, you will need top railing for this for additional safety and security.
The Right Stone Steps Railing
You can’t have stone steps without a railing system! Now that you know how you can choose the right one for you, you can easily glide up and down your stone steps safely and securely.
One Stop Plastering offers excellent stone railing service here in San Francisco, CA. Get your free bid today!
