Royal Glass House fabricates stainless steel handrails for project-specific settings. Exposure, design and finish all matter, particularly near the coast. This glass balustrade guide explains how glass and metal can form one barrier design.
Choose the style
- Wall-mounted rail: a single rail on brackets along the wall of a staircase.
- Posts with glass: steel posts holding glass panels, for an open look.
- Posts with rods: horizontal steel rods between posts, simple and modern.
- Top rail on glass: a steel rail capping a frameless glass balustrade.
Indoors
Inside a villa, hotel or office, stainless steel handrails need very little care. A brushed finish hides fingerprints better than a mirror finish; a mirror finish looks striking in lobbies and on feature stairs.
Outdoors
On balconies and terraces, rails face sun, dust and the occasional rain. Stainless steel copes well, but dust and dirt left on the surface can cause marks over time. A regular rinse keeps it clean. In direct sun metal gets hot, so think about where hands will rest.
Near the sea
Chloride exposure can increase corrosion risk. Grade selection should be based on the environment and project specification, with advice from the designer or fabricator. Regular cleaning can remove deposits; follow care guidance for the selected finish.
Combine it with glass
Stainless steel and glass work well together. Steel posts or a top rail with glass panels give strength and a clear view at the same time.
Safety first
Handrail and balustrade heights and strengths must meet the rules that apply to your building. Your consultant or our team will confirm these before anything is made.
Care in three steps
- Wipe with warm water and a mild detergent.
- Dry with a soft cloth, following the grain on brushed steel.
- Avoid steel wool and bleach, which can mark the surface.
Chloride exposure can increase corrosion risk; select the grade for the environment and project specification.
Further reading: British Stainless Steel Association: corrosion guidance
What to do next
For a handrail, confirm the material selection, finish and care requirements for its location. Explore our stainless steel handrails or contact us with the project details.
Common questions
Is stainless steel rust-proof?
Stainless steel resists corrosion, but it is not immune in every environment. Grade, surface condition, deposits and cleaning all affect how it performs.
Which stainless steel grade should I use near the coast?
The grade should be selected for the exposure and project requirements by the specifier or fabricator. Do not choose based on appearance alone.
How do I clean a brushed stainless steel handrail?
Use a soft cloth and a suitable mild cleaner, wiping with the grain. Follow the product supplier's care guidance and avoid abrasive tools.
