Transparent railings minimize the amount of vertical and horizontal obstructions that can impede your views. This is accomplished in several ways; minimizing post counts and/or sizing is one method. Another way to design more transparent railings is by removing or minimizing the top railing member. Material selection and color choices can also contribute largely to the transparency of each railing system. In this post we will review some of the available choices consumers can utilize for the most transparent railings.
Transparent Railing Materials For Selected Applications
Stainless steel cable railing systems and glass railings are currently the most popular options for maximizing views outside. The last few years have seen a tremendous increase for these railings inside as well. Which one is right for your application? Consider the following factors about each railing type:
Glass Panel Railings
- Glass railing systems provide excellent wind resistance, as well as transparency
- Low maintenance on components, but regular panel cleaning is needed outside to maintain transparency
- Extremely durable, great lifespan
- Cost factors can be high; glass systems without top railings may require laminated glass
- Harder to DIY
If a windbreak is needed, glass is hard to beat. Tempered glass panels work great for outdoor dining areas, fire pit seating and poolside applications where wind is an issue.
Cable Railing System Transparency
Stainless cable is extremely transparent and when paired with the right framing system it is a very effective infill for maximizing views. Ultra slim spreader posts and minimal top railing profiles can combine for invisible railing frames. Here are some other important points to consider about cable railings:
- Cable railings are extremely low maintenance
- There are no panels to clean; however there is no wind resistance with these systems
- Cable railings offer an amazing lifespan of 30-50 years even outdoors in harsh environments
- Usually more cost effective than glass
- DIY capability is very good for many cable railing applications
What are the Most Transparent Railing Colors?
In our experience the most transparent railing color is not a color at all. Bare stainless steel can actually be the most transparent color of all. Arguments can always be made for black railings at night, or certain colors in certain settings; but bare stainless is the most widely used. Other good choices for transparency are grey tones and earth tones in landscape settings. Bare stainless and metallic finishes, as well as light grey work great in coastal applications.
Since 2009 San Diego Cable Railings has been furnishing transparent railings to a nationwide customer base of pros and DIYers. We have an online store, and preferred contractors who specialize in railing installation. If you would like an estimate on a railing system or if you have questions about cable or glass railing systems; give us a call at 844-277-7327 or visit our quote request form.
