Custom Made Handrails versus Modular Handrails

While modular handrail systems may seem like  a less expensive alternative to custom made stainless handrails, one major consideration to keep in mind is strength. Modular systems are often promoted with the phrase 'No Welding Required'. This is because the components used are typically joined together using glues, screws or rivets, or a combination of each. Such joining methods may be quicker and easier than welding, but lack the structural integrity of a fully welded join. Thus making them prone to wobbling and eventual failure. 

Similarly, Modular systems use sleeve type joins, whereby one piece slips inside the next, leaving a small crevice at the location where the two pieces mate. Such a crevice provides a location for dirt and contaminants to collect, which under certain circumstances may lead to corrosion of the stainless steel itself. With a fully welded and polished join however, no such crevices exist, thereby much improving the integrity of the stainless steel. In fact, in my experience, a welded join that has been properly sanded and polished, not only provides an aesthetically seamless transition that is invisible and pleasing to the eye, but also provides excellent corrosion resistance - sometimes even better than the parent material itself.

At Architectural Stainless Handrails (Qld) we typically steer clear of 'no-weld' modular componentry when manufacturing our quality custom made fully welded handrails. As 'Quality', 'Integrity' and 'Reputation' are cornerstones of our enterprise, it's simply not in our long term interests to provide an inferior product to our customers.

Contact Us At:

sales@ashqld.com