The difference is how each type of steel resists corrosion and how the surface looks. Stainless steel gains its corrosion resistance from its alloy composition, while galvanised steel has a protective zinc coating. The right choice depends on the environment, appearance and upkeep required. Both can be used outdoors where appropriate.
Stainless steel has a metallic finish that can be brushed or polished, with good corrosion resistance. Galvanised steel has a grey, more industrial appearance. Its zinc coating provides protection, including some protection around minor scratches, but the coating must be maintained. Both materials need cleaning in exposed conditions, and neither is ideal for every setting.
Brushed stainless steel has a matt finish with a visible grain, whereas polished stainless steel is shinier and smoother. Both can be used for balustrades, but they create different looks and need slightly different care. A brushed finish offers a subtle, modern appearance, tends to show fingerprints and minor scratches less, and is best cleaned along the grain.
A polished finish gives a more premium appearance and is easy to wipe clean, although scratches may be more visible. It is important to distinguish the surface finish from the grade of steel: near the sea, the grade – for example, AISI 316 – matters more for corrosion resistance than whether the surface is brushed or polished.
Yes, stainless steel can develop rust-coloured spots and discolouration despite its name. Often, these are caused by airborne iron particles settling on the surface and corroding. Small brown marks do not necessarily mean that the stainless steel itself is corroding.
Salt deposits, accumulated dirt and cleaning with steel wool can also cause discolouration. Stainless steel has a protective surface layer that can reform when the surface is kept clean, so clean as needed and remove marks promptly. In coastal areas, AISI 316 or 316L stainless steel is often used. Stainless steel resists corrosion but is not completely immune to it.
Stainless steel balustrades come in several designs, depending on the infill, view and style you want. Stainless steel can be used for posts, fittings and top rails, with infill made from glass, bars or wire. Each option has a different appearance, largely determined by its infill.
A stainless steel balustrade with glass provides an open feel and preserves views. Metal bars create a more pronounced metallic appearance, while wire gives a lighter, more discreet look. The top rail affects both grip and appearance. Outdoors, particularly near the coast, the steel grade must be suited to the environment. Choose the design to match the location, views and style you want.
The main differences are appearance, sightlines and how easy the balustrade is to climb. Horizontal bars create long, contemporary lines, whereas vertical bars give a more traditional pattern without the same step-like arrangement. Horizontal bars can provide footholds and may be easier to climb.
Where young children may be present and the balustrade protects against falls, vertical bars are often the more suitable choice. On a ground-level patio, where the balustrade mainly defines the space, horizontal bars can be an attractive design option. Both aluminium and stainless steel balustrades are available with bar infill.
Yes, stainless steel balustrades are often used in public spaces, but the complete system must be designed for the loads and conditions of its intended location. Being made of stainless steel does not automatically make a balustrade suitable for every setting. Typical applications include stairwells, entrances, offices, shops, restaurants and access balconies.
Where large numbers of people gather, loading requirements may be higher than in a home. Posts, fixings, infill and the supporting structure therefore need to be designed as a complete system. For outdoor installations, choose a steel grade suited to the environment. For larger projects, establish the requirements before ordering.
For outdoor stainless steel balustrades, marine-grade stainless steel, AISI 316L, is often a better choice, particularly near the coast and in other exposed environments. Its molybdenum content improves resistance to salt and chlorides. AISI 304 can be suitable indoors and in sheltered outdoor settings.
Stainless steel is not completely maintenance-free. Even a balustrade made from 316L can develop deposits or surface staining if salt, dirt and metal particles are left on it for long periods, so clean it as needed. Surface finish also matters: a smooth, well-finished surface is easier to keep clean. Choose the steel grade for the location and environment, not just its appearance.
Clean a stainless steel balustrade with lukewarm water, a mild detergent and a soft cloth or sponge, then rinse with clean water. Avoid steel wool, metal brushes and abrasive cleaners, which can scratch the surface or leave iron particles that cause discolouration. Cleaning frequency depends on the environment.
In sheltered locations, cleaning when the balustrade looks dirty is often sufficient, while installations near the sea or busy roads may need more frequent washing. Clean brushed steel in the direction of the grain and wipe down visible surfaces afterwards. Small brown spots are often caused by airborne iron particles from the surrounding environment rather than corrosion of the balustrade itself.
Stainless steel is available in different grades. Standard grades can work well indoors and in sheltered locations, but exposure to salt or chlorinated air can lead to surface staining. We therefore use marine-grade stainless steel in our outdoor systems. The molybdenum in the alloy improves corrosion resistance in coastal and poolside environments. Rinse the balustrade with fresh water and clean it as needed to maintain its appearance.
On jetties, at moorings and at waterfront properties, balustrades are exposed to salt, moisture and changes in temperature. Marine-grade stainless steel is designed to offer improved resistance in these conditions. Fixings must always be matched to the substrate – such as a concrete slab, timber deck or jetty structure – and the load-bearing construction.
Prime combines the strength of steel with the transparency of glass and lets in plenty of light.
Tenso creates a minimalist, nautical feel, with wires that leave the view largely unobstructed.
Flow features horizontal stainless steel tubes, creating a distinct, graphic appearance. Bear in mind that horizontal bars, like wire infill, can provide footholds and may be easier for young children to climb.
Linea Step follows the slope of the stairs, giving a fitted, built-in appearance.
Indoors, the finish matters particularly because a balustrade is seen and touched every day. Stainless steel gives a refined look without dominating the room and is often paired with an oak handrail. The Lira handrail is available in oak and stainless steel; explore our handrails and top rails.
Stainless steel balustrades are priced between aluminium and glass options per metre, while marine-grade steel costs more than standard stainless steel. In exposed locations, choosing a suitable grade from the outset is important. The configurator updates the price as you make your selections.
Each balustrade is supplied as a complete kit with made-to-measure profiles, fixings and installation instructions for your order. Our glass systems use toughened and laminated safety glass, depending on the product.
Our manufacturing process is certified to EN 1090-1. Production is regularly monitored by RISE, with a focus on traceability, quality and manufacturing processes.
Your shopping cart will be emptied if you switch to a different country.
