|
Railing color: a hidden choice
January 24, 2018
In a previous post, we examined the pros and cons of railing infill alternatives. If an unobstructed view is a priority, the railing in-fill is usually glass or cable. Glass has its fans, but frequent cleaning can be a turn-off to some. Cable rail requires much less effort to keep up a fresh appearance.
However, both in-fill systems are identical in one respect: An attractive, durable railing system is required. In most applications, the strength, affordability, and beauty of long-lasting aluminum is the preferred railing choice. Aluminum also works well in interior or exterior applications.
But what about aluminum railing color?
Feeney offers 14 standard colors and over 200 custom colors for its DesignRail® aluminum railing system. To make sure the color holds up, especially in exterior projects, the aluminum railing receives a power-coated finish to the AAMA-2604 standard. That helps ensure color retention, impact resistance, and harsh weather protection.
With so many color choices, is there a one that especially supports an unobstructed view?
Absolutely, say Jason Russell, Tacoma, Wash.-based deck contractor and aka Dr. Decks®. In the doctor’s professional opinion, one color stands out for an outstanding viewing prognosis.
“It’s black,” Russell says. “When you’re sitting on your deck, admiring your view of the water, mountains, field, trees, or your neighbor’s place, the less obstructed the better.
“You tend to look past darker colors, minimizing visual conflict. Lighter colors, like white, tend to draw the eye and distract. If you’re framing glass or cable, all you see is that white aluminum frame.” Says the 21-year deck-building veteran, “black helps avoid the distraction.”
“I’ve heard some homeowners say, ‘Okay, but won’t a black railing look funny with my house?’ I know curb appeal is important. But many homeowners become attracted to a railing color without thinking through what they’ll really see when they’re sitting on their lounge chair or the view from the kitchen. A black railing is better than being penned-in by a white or light-colored railing.”
Russell cites another reason for his recommendation: “I live on the West Coast and black and other dark colors are trending hot. Black is my number one, go-to color.”
Feeney customers agree. Black and Bronze Matte (another darker shade) top the popular colors list for the DesignRail® aluminum railing line of colors.
Company: Feeney, Inc
Source: http://media.feeneyinc.com/blog/railing-color-a-hidden-choice
Tags: