How heights and weights of railings affect section sizes

How heights and weights of railings affect section sizes

Purchasing the right fence railings can be a hard decision. You need to know that the height and weight of railings can affect section sizes. Therefore, in this blog, we will discuss how the heights and weights of railings affect section sizes. We hope that this guide will help you when specifying a suitable size of support post and foundation size.

If you also are looking to purchase railings, Alpha Rails supplies a range of railings suitable for every project such as vertical bar railings, bow top railings, flat bar railings, and flat top railings.

Things to consider when specifying and purchasing railings

The relevant British Standard governing the specifying and manufacture of vertical bar steel railings is BS1722-9:2006 (Fences, specification or mild steel (low carbon steel) fences with round or square verticals and flat horizontals). This contains information which should be taken into account when specifiers are looking to include railings within new projects. It stipulates the minimum member (component) sizes of posts, rails, and vertical infill bars which should be used dependent upon the height of the railings that are being specified.

Clay Cross ALDI Flat top metal railings

Why does the height of railings affect member (component) sizes?

By increasing the height of fencing, this in turn would increase the section sizes of the components themselves. The main effect of all this is an increase in the weight of the fence panel. A typical example would be comparing a 1000mm high x 2000mm wide vertical bar fence panel against an 1800mm high x 2000mm wide vertical bar fence panel:

1000mm high x 2000mm wide vertical bar railing panel (typical components) 1800mm high x 2000mm wide vertical bar railing panel (typical components)
40×10 RSF horizontal rails 50×10 RSF horizontal rails
Ø12mm infill bars Ø20mm infill bars
Panel weight: 26.5 KG Panel weight: 83.5 KG

As you can see from the table above, by increasing the height to 1800mm, this has a staggering effect on the weight of a panel, which is over three times heavier than the 1000mm panel! Therefore, serious thought needs to be given when specifying not only a suitable size of support post but also foundation size.

The weight of panels and posts will also have effects on site installation labour and its costs. This is to take into consideration the legal obligations of The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 2002.

With over 30 years’ experience with the manufacture and installation of metal railings, Alpha Rail can offer expert advice and assistance in this field. Previous examples can be viewed on our website, and our Sales Team can be reached at 01623 750 214, or websales@alpharail.co.uk.

Latest News

We Create Bespoke Metal Gates!

Have you ever passed a magnificent gate and wondered how to get one just like it? At Alpha Rail, we have a team of dedicated fabrication specialists and skilled technicians who are ready to transform your ideas into tangible metalwork masterpieces. Our experienced team can manufacture a wide range of metal entrance gate designs, all tailored to your exact specifications. Whether you have a traditional design in mind or something more modern, we can bring your vision to life. But it doesn’t stop there. From elegant railings and sturdy balustrades to intricate gates and bespoke architectural metalwork, our in-house team of specialists can create just about anything you can imagine. With precision craftsmanship and attention to detail, we ensure that every product we produce not only meets but exceeds your expectations. So, if you’re dreaming of that perfect gate, railing, or any custom metalwork, let Alpha Rail turn your ideas into reality. Our commitment to quality and excellence means you’ll receive a product that not only looks stunning but stands the test of time.

Posted in Blog Read Article

The Benefits of Galvanizing Railings 

The Benefits of Galvanizing Railings   At Alpha Rail, we pride ourselves on delivering railings that not only look great but are built to last. The […]

Posted in Blog Read Article

Enhancing Your Property with Metal Railings: Key Considerations

Adding metal railings to your wall can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal and security of your property. Whether you’re looking for new gates or create […]

Posted in Blog Read Article