Wooden balustrades – bringing style, safety and tradition

In an earlier ideas and inspiration blog post we looked at the options for when choosing the right type of balustrade for your staircase – wood, glass or metal. Each material has its own benefits, but here we focus on wooden balustrade systems - a guaranteed way to raise the appearance of your home.

A balustrade is the combined name for the entire railing part of a staircase – which consists of spindles (also known as balusters), a baserail to support the spindles, the handrail and newel posts to support the balustrade system at each end.

So why choose wood?

First and foremost, the decision on what material to choose is ultimately guided by the visual setting around you and the look you wish to achieve. 

As a completely natural material, wood meets the desire to include materials in the home that haven’t been manufactured or engineered. Timbers offer warm, soft colours that complement both traditional and contemporary surroundings.

Wood is a great and classic choice in so many settings simply because it is so versatile, with lots of opportunity for customisation. 

We offer a variety of different timbers to choose from, including pine, ash, oak, dark hardwood and hemlock, allowing you to complement other wooden features of your home. 

There are also many different finishes to choose from, allowing you to achieve the exact look you yearn. You might choose to leave the wood in its natural glory, or perhaps apply a stain or paint for added gloss or warmth.

Providing a high-level of safety

One of the most significant benefits of balustrades is security, and wood is also a real sturdy and safe option. When placed side by side, spindles are generally separated by around the same measurement as the size of the square bottom section. The distance between these spindles is a critical element, not only for aesthetic appeal, but also for safety. It’s important to consider which timber products will stand the test of time, but there is no rule that says they need to be bland.

Balustrades are even more important for homes and families with children as a safety precaution. They can also provide privacy as they restrict the view of the upper floors of your home.  

Don’t forget to maintain your staircase

True of all material, wooden balustrades will require maintenance over their lifetime, and a little bit of love and attention can make it look as fresh five, ten, and twenty years down the line. Keep it clean, give it the right treatment, and keep it tidy are just three of the tips we shared in our recent blog on using your spare time to make the most of your staircase.