On the list of words you’ve heard but probably have no idea what they mean, balustrade ranks pretty highly. This fancy term refers to a railing and the posts that support it. Typically seen on balconies, staircases, bridges and terraces, a balustrade is used first and foremost to prevent people from falling off the edge. However, that hasn’t stopped designers from getting a little bit fancy with their railings.
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Balustrades, Balusters and Parapets
Sometimes referred to as a railing, rail, banister, handrail and parapet, a balustrade is a row of small columns or posts, known as balusters, topped with a railing or bar. Mitchell Owens, Architectural Digest’s Decorative Arts and Antique Editor, defines the balustrade as a multi-functional piece of technology that not only reduces the possibility of a person falling off a stairway but also allows for cordoning off an area for privacy, “such as the gilded balustrade that separates the bed in the king’s chamber at Versailles from the rest of the room.”
The History of Balustrades
Balustrades were first discovered in sculptural murals depicting Assyrian palaces. At the same time, the construction of marble and wooden railings for private gardens became widespread across ancient China by the 10th century. Although balusters and balustrades didn’t appear in Europe until the 13th century, the term was first coined in 17th Century Italy for the resemblance they share with blossoming pomegranate flowers, or balaustra as they are known in Italian.
Ultralox Interlocking Balustrade Technology
Ultralox manufactures premium balustrades for commercial and residential projects using ULTRALOX INTERLOCKING® TECHNOLOGY patented interlocking machines for decks, patios and other applications, with low maintenance living in mind.
Benefits of Interlocking Balustrades
Made in the USA and backed up with a 20-year limited warranty, Ultralox is Australia’s most innovative balustrade system. Pre-powder-coated, without additional welding, the speed at which Ultralox can produce railing panels for on-site delivery is unrivalled. With capacity for both aluminium pickets and glass infill options for railing, Ultralox Balustrades enable a consistent and stylish look for any project, thanks to the lack of exposed fasteners.
ULTRALOX INTERLOCKING® TECHNOLOGY balustrade systems are available in many styles, colours and configurations, including picket and glass options. You can even design your own using our colours and top rail selections, plus accessories such as gate kits and solar & wired light caps.
Victorian Railing Systems: Aluminium picket railing system strong enough for commercial applications with elegance and beauty for any residential application.
Revival Railing Systems: Delivering an elegant, durable, modern design, with an old-world charm added to the handrail.
Modern Railing Systems: Aluminium modern railing system with a continuous top rail for added elegance.
Find out more about Ultralox, suppliers of Australia’s most innovative balustrade system today.