The prefabricated balustrades are construction elements that are currently very popular when it comes to decorating terraces and gardens. decorating terraces and gardens. This is not surprising if we take into account their functionality and aesthetic appeal.
But what are the advantages of balustrades in renovation projects? In ParaTuReforma we are going to explain it to you. But not only that. We will also explain exactly what they are and how to install them. Let’s get started!
What are prefabricated balustrades?
A balustrade is a set of posts or columns called balusters that support a railing. Usually, this architectural element has been used to support stairs, as well as to provide greater security on terraces and balconies. Currently, a very innovative trend is to use it to delimit spaces within the garden.
As a general rule, balustrades have consisted of the following elements:
- Gripping material. Cement has been the most commonly used, since it provides a good support for screwing and fixing the low base.
- Low base. This is the lower element of the balustrade, that is, the one in contact with the ground.
- Balusters. As we have said, they are columns or posts arranged every few centimeters whose function is to support the railing.
- High base. Identical to the low base. The balusters are also screwed to it. It contains a certain gripping material and a connecting rod.
- Handrail. This is the upper part of the balustrade, i.e., the part on which users can lean.
In general, balustrades have been made of wood or marble. However, nowadays it is more common to use other materials that are less delicate and more resistant to weathering.
This is one of the great advantages of precast balustrades, which are made of pressed concrete. In addition, they are presented in such a way that they can be assembled in a very short time. All that is needed is to bolt the pieces to the building.
Advantages of prefabricated balustrades
After what we have told you, you probably already have an idea about the main advantages offered by balustrades. However, we believe it is worth talking about them in depth so that you can decide whether they are really what you need or not.
Installation speed
Precast concrete is made in controlled factories and production centers. In fact, the balustrade is shaped there. This means that the time required for installation is much shorter and, therefore, labor costs are also reduced.
Most often, balustrades are sold in panels of one meter long and between 80 and 100 centimeters high. The installation process is as simple as screwing the bases to the surface of the terrace, balcony or staircase. In addition, these pieces can be cut if necessary using the appropriate tools.
Some time ago we talked about how to install a balustrade in 6 steps in this blog. An article that we recommend you to take a look at if you want to put it yourself without calling a professional, which will make it even more economical.
Quality and uniformity of materials
The production of prefabricated balustrades is carried out in series. That is, a series of machines and molds are used to automate the process. As a result, all parts have the same finish and an exceptional degree of quality and uniformity.
Customization possibilities
It is not uncommon for you to be able to combine different types of bases, handrails and balusters within your balustrade. In fact, this is a possibility offered by most manufacturers.
In addition, you have to keep in mind that precast concrete is a material that supports a multitude of sizes, shapes and finishes, which has made it very popular today among decorators and architects. It can also be painted without any problem. Of course, by using specific paints.
Strength and durability
This is another of the great advantages of precast concrete over wood or natural stone. This material is practically immune to wind, water and ultraviolet radiation from the sun, so its use is highly recommended outdoors.
In addition, it is flame retardant and has good characteristics in terms of torsion and flexibility. This means that it is also not too affected by earthquakes. All this translates into a much longer service life than conventional concrete and the rest of its competitors.
Sustainability
The production process of precast concrete is much more sustainable and environmentally friendly than that required to produce conventional concrete. By this we mean that it requires less energy use and therefore leads to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Cost reduction
As already mentioned, mass production and ease of installation are factors that result in lower balustrade costs .
Logistics and transportation facilities
All the characteristics of precast concrete mean that the balustrade pieces can be easily packaged. In fact, they are usually stored on pallets, which saves a lot of space in the warehouse. But not only in the warehouse, but also in the truck that transports them from the logistics center to the buyer’s home.
Easy storage and handling
Pressed concrete is not a particularly heavy material. Therefore, the operators responsible for transporting and installing the balustrade elements can work more comfortably and with less risk.
Undoubtedly, all these advantages are very good reasons to choose prefabricated balustrades for your terrace, balcony or staircase. Thanks to them, you will get a very strong and durable security element that will also give a very interesting aesthetic touch to any space. In the ParaTuReforma catalog you will find a wide variety of models at your disposal. If you like any of them, but you still have any questions, please contact us, we will be happy to help you!
