In its latest feature on outdoor living, Qualified Remodeler (QR) reports that, “everyone is thinking about building something bigger, better, stronger and wider,” and that “homeowners are using vacation money to make bigger investments in their homes.” Honing in on deck-design considerations, surveyed outdoor living specialists are seeing requests for increasingly larger, more customized decks that incorporate many of the latest design accessories, like aluminum railings.

Aluminum railing’s noticeable rise in popularity can likely be attributed to the “growing desire by consumers for low maintenance, long-lasting (outdoor living) solutions that come with exceptional warranties,” notes QR. Not to mention, aluminum railing systems effortlessly elevate a larger deck’s aesthetic in an economical fashion.

Given the rise of aluminum railings, we’re answering some of the most commonly asked questions about these customizable, high-performing railing solutions.

1. How long do aluminum railing last? With bi-annual cleaning of the panels and posts, aluminum railing systems will provide enduring style for several decades. Pretty impressively, leading edge manufacturers will back their aluminum railing offerings with limited lifetime warranties.

2. Are aluminum railings sturdy? Perhaps once unassuming and modest, the aluminum railing options of the past have been surpassed by pre-welded systems that are as resilient and strong as they are aesthetically appealing. For one, aluminum isn’t susceptible to corrosion or rust, which means that an aluminum railing system can stand up against whatever Mother Nature throws its way, including ice, snow, rain and harsh UV rays. Secondly, the pre-welded nature of the assembly will maximize system rigidity and strength, increasing the safety features of above-ground decks, porches and patios.

3. Do aluminum railings get hot? Thanks to aluminum’s unique thermal properties, an aluminum railing system will not get too hot to the touch. In fact, aluminum performs exceptionally well in the cold as well, which makes it an ideal solution for homeowners based in locations that experience intense temperature fluctuations.

4. Are aluminum railings expensive?  When maintenance and product longevity are taken into consideration, aluminum railing systems are one of the most cost-effective metal solutions available.

Learn more about our innovative aluminum railing offerings at fortressbp.com/railing/aluminum and then use our interactive 3D visualizer tool to imagine what your dream outdoor living space—complete with railing, bamboo-based composite and PVC decking, and lighting accessories—will look like in a virtual “real world” setting.