The Complete Buyer's Guide to Railings, Gates and Handrails

Choosing new railings, gates or handrails is not something most people do very often.

As a result, many homeowners and business owners find themselves trying to compare different materials, finishes, designs and quotations without really knowing what separates one product from another.

This guide has been created to help you understand the options available, the factors that affect price, and how to choose a solution that will look great and provide many years of reliable service.

Whether you're considering a simple garden railing, a decorative entrance gate or a safety handrail, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

Why Install Railings, Gates or Handrails?

While every project is different, most installations fall into one or more of the following categories:

• Security - Railings and gates provide a visible boundary that helps deter unwanted access and improve property security.
• Safety - Handrails and balustrades help protect people from slips, trips and falls.
• Appearance - Well-designed steelwork can significantly improve the appearance and kerb appeal of a property.
• Property Value - Quality external improvements can enhance the overall appearance and desirability of a home or commercial premises.

Understanding the Different Types of Steelwork

Garden Railings

Typically installed around front gardens, boundary walls and landscaped areas.

Benefits include:

• Improved appearance
• Defined boundaries
• Increased security
• Long service life

Gates

Gates provide controlled access to a property.

Common options include:

Pedestrian Gates

Ideal for footpaths and garden entrances.

Driveway Gates

Designed to accommodate vehicles.

Available as:

• Single leaf gates
• Double leaf gates
• Sliding gates

Handrails

Handrails provide support and improve safety.

Common applications include:

• Steps
• Access ramps
• Pathways
• Commercial entrances

Balustrades

Balustrades are designed to prevent falls from height.

Common locations include:

• Balconies
• Decking areas
• Raised terraces
• Staircases

Because they provide fall protection, balustrades often require additional consideration during design and installation.

Choosing the Right Material

Mild Steel

Mild steel is the most popular material for bespoke railings and gates.

Advantages include:

• Excellent strength
• Highly versatile
• Cost effective
• Suitable for bespoke designs
• Can be galvanised

For most domestic and commercial projects, mild steel provides an excellent balance of performance and value.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel offers excellent corrosion resistance and a contemporary appearance.

Advantages include:

• Modern appearance
• Excellent corrosion resistance
• Low maintenance

However, stainless steel is typically more expensive than mild steel.

Aluminium

Aluminium is lightweight and corrosion resistant but again more expensive than galvanised steel.

Advantages include:

• Low weight
• Corrosion resistance
• Minimal maintenance

However, aluminium is generally less rigid than steel and may require larger sections to achieve comparable strength.

For many architectural and bespoke applications, galvanised steel remains the preferred option due to its strength, versatility durability and price.

Understanding Protective Finishes

The finish applied to steelwork can have a major impact on both appearance and lifespan.

Painted Steel

Paint provides a decorative finish and basic corrosion protection.

Advantages:

• Lower initial cost
• Wide range of colours

Disadvantages:

• Requires maintenance
• Can be damaged by scratches
• Typically shorter lifespan

Hot-Dip Galvanising

Hot-dip galvanising involves immersing steel into molten zinc.

Benefits include:

• Excellent corrosion protection
• Protection inside and outside hollow sections
• Long service life
• Low maintenance

For outdoor steelwork, galvanising is often one of the most cost-effective options over the life of the installation.

Colour Coat Duplex Systems

At Glenview Steel, we offer Colour Coat finishes using a hot-dip galvanised base combined with a coloured architectural coating.

This system combines:

• The corrosion protection of galvanising
• The appearance benefits of a coloured finish
• Reduced maintenance requirements
• Exceptional long-term durability

For many customers, this represents the premium solution.

Thermal Spray Galvanising (Metallising)

Thermal spray galvanising, sometimes referred to as metallising or hot spray galvanising, is another highly effective method of protecting steel against corrosion.

The process involves blasting the steel surface to create a clean profile before spraying molten zinc onto the steel using specialist equipment. The zinc particles bond to the prepared surface, creating a protective coating that helps prevent corrosion.

Unlike hot-dip galvanising, the steel is not immersed in molten zinc. This means thermal spray galvanising can often be used on very large fabrications that may exceed the size limitations of a galvanising bath.

Advantages

• Excellent corrosion protection
• Suitable for large fabrications
• No galvanising bath size restrictions
• Reduced risk of distortion on thin fabrications
• Can be repaired and applied locally if required
• Compatible with duplex coating systems

Disadvantages

• Typically more expensive than hot-dip galvanising
• Requires extensive surface preparation
• Coating quality is highly dependent on application technique
• Internal surfaces of hollow sections cannot usually be protected in the same way as hot-dip galvanising

Hot-Dip Galvanising vs Thermal Spray Galvanising

Both systems provide excellent corrosion protection when applied correctly.

For most domestic railings, gates and handrails, hot-dip galvanising is generally the preferred solution because it protects both internal and external surfaces, provides excellent durability and often represents the most economical option.

Thermal spray galvanising is particularly useful for:

• Large architectural steelwork
• Structures that exceed galvanising bath dimensions
• Heritage restoration projects
• Certain commercial and infrastructure applications

Thermal Spray Galvanising with Colour Coat Finishes

Like hot-dip galvanising, thermal spray galvanising can be combined with a decorative topcoat to create a duplex coating system.

This combines the corrosion protection of zinc with the appearance benefits of a coloured finish, helping maximise both durability and aesthetics.

Which Should You Choose?

For most railings, gates and handrails, hot-dip galvanising remains the benchmark for long-term corrosion protection and value.

However, thermal spray galvanising can be an excellent alternative where project size, design constraints or specific engineering requirements make hot-dip galvanising less suitable.

How Long Should Railings Last?

The lifespan depends heavily on the chosen finish.

• Painted Steel - Typically requires periodic maintenance and repainting.
• Hot-Dip Galvanised Steel - Can provide decades of corrosion protection.
• Duplex Systems - Often provide the longest service life while maintaining an attractive appearance.

Understanding Railing Heights

Common domestic heights include:

• 900mm - Popular for front boundaries and decorative applications.
• 1100mm - Common for domestic security and boundary railings.
• 1800mm - Often used where greater security is required.

The correct height depends on the location, purpose and appearance requirements.

Planning Permission

Many domestic railing installations do not require planning permission.

However, restrictions may apply where:

• Railings exceed certain heights
• Properties are listed
• Properties are located within conservation areas

If in doubt, check with your local planning authority before work begins.

What Happens During a Site Survey?

A professional survey allows accurate measurements and ensures the correct installation method is selected.

Typical considerations include:

• Ground conditions
• Existing walls
• Access requirements
• Levels and gradients
• Design preferences
• Finish selection

The survey is often one of the most important stages of the project.

How Are Railings Installed?

Installation methods vary depending on the project.

Common options include:

Concreted Posts

Provides excellent strength and durability.

Base-Plated Posts

Suitable where concrete or masonry already exists.

Wall-Mounted Systems

Often used on existing walls and retaining structures.

The most suitable method depends on site conditions and intended use.

Why Do Prices Vary So Much?

Many customers notice large differences between quotations.

The most common reasons include:

• Material thickness
• Manufacturing quality
• Galvanising
• Coating systems
• Design complexity
• Installation requirements
• Site conditions

Comparing quotations solely on price can sometimes be misleading.

Understanding exactly what is included is often more important.

Questions to Ask Before Accepting a Quote

Before proceeding, consider asking:

• Is the steel galvanised?
• Is the steel painted or duplex coated?
• What maintenance will be required?
• What thickness materials are being used?
• Is installation included?
• Is the design bespoke or off-the-shelf?
• What warranty is provided?

The answers often reveal significant differences between products that may appear similar at first glance.

Why Galvanising Matters

If there is one feature that has the biggest impact on long-term performance, it is corrosion protection.

While paint alone can provide protection, galvanising offers a far more durable solution.

When combined with a Colour Coat duplex finish, the result is a product that combines exceptional durability with an attractive appearance.

For most outdoor railings, gates and handrails, this represents one of the best long-term investments available.

Choosing the Right Supplier

The supplier you choose can be just as important as the product itself.

Look for a company that provides:

• Site surveys
• Bespoke designs
• Clear quotations
• Quality fabrication
• Appropriate corrosion protection
• Professional installation

A reputable supplier should be willing to explain the differences between available options and help you choose the most suitable solution for your property.

Final Thoughts

Railings, gates and handrails are often long-term investments.

By understanding the available materials, finishes and installation methods, you can make a more informed decision and choose a product that provides both immediate visual appeal and many years of reliable service.

At Glenview Steel, we believe customers should understand exactly what they are buying and why certain options may offer better long-term value than others.

If you would like advice on a specific project, we're always happy to discuss the options and recommend a solution that suits your property, budget and requirements.