24 Sep What is the Best Balustrade or Pool Fence to Use for Coastal Living?

Erosion and storms are two common problems we face living near the coast, along with sea salt corrosion. It is this corrosion that causes problems with unprotected metal structures, so if you live near the coast or own and run a business near the sea, then you need to be extra vigilant with the type of materials you use on your property.

With 85% of the Australian population living on or near the coast, Sentrel have recognised

the importance of developing products that cater for seaside living. Some important things to

consider when deciding on pool fences and balustrades include:

• How easy is the material to maintain?
• Will the material deteriorate quickly due to corrosion?
• And finally, will the material obstruct your beautiful view or landscape?

316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel Wire

Grade 316 is the most corrosion-­‐resistant material in its class, well suited for use in warm chloride environments. This makes it a great material to use for pool fencing and on sea-­‐ front balustrades in the Australian climate.

Lower grade stainless steel should not be used if living near the sea, as it can lower the integrity of the stainless steel. This in turn makes the structures less safe, and more expensive due to the need for more frequent replacement.

Tea staining is a discolouration on the surface of the stainless steel that causes a cosmetic discolouration and does not affect the longevity or the integrity of the steel. The difference between tea staining and corrosion is that tea stained stainless steel wire can be remedied with a freshwater wash down versus rust, which may require replacement.

In Sentrels’ experience, combining 316 Marine Grade stainless steel wire with either an Australian hardwood timber or a powder coated aluminium rail results in an attractive and practical option for pool fencing and balustrades for beachside homes.

Balustrades for Seaside Living

Stainless steel wire balustrades are a very popular, modern and stylish choice for both homes and commercial buildings, particularly for coastal living.  You can use stainless steel wire balustrades either indoors or outdoors for maximum impact and many architectural buildings use this material to great effect.

Benefits include:

• Stainless steel wire balustrades are a great alternative to glass due to their reduced maintenance and cleaning requirements. Using glass balustrades in coastal homes means sea salt and finger marks collecting on the glass panels and extra work for homeowners.
• Vertical wire balustrades do not obstruct the views the way that all stainless steel or timber balustrades can. They tend to blend in with the scenery better, rather than impeding on the landscape, and offer airflow throughout the space.
• A choice of Australian hardwood timber or sleek Aluminium handrails.

Pool fences for Seaside Homes

In Australia, pool fences are a necessity and often detract from the natural outdoor surrounds. Especially if you have ocean views, the last thing you want to look at is a bulky metal pool fence. And while glass pool fencing may seem like a great option, the sea salt means you will quickly have a dirty pool fence unless you religiously maintain them.

Sentrels’ vertical wire pool fences offer an uninterrupted view of your surrounds, and easy maintenance whilst complying with Australian Standards for pool fencing. Taking it a step further, these pool fences can be customised to suit your home. Choose between an Australian Hardwood timber and powder-­‐coated aluminium rails to top your pool fence. You can also use specific shades of aluminium powder coating on your pool fence, from white gloss to bronze pearl.

Another benefit of stainless steel wire pool fences is that they are suitable for owners with a small backyard, who want to add a plunge pool or a spa for the family, but are concerned that adding a pool fence will limit their space.

So if you are building a new home, redesigning your current home or renovating a commercial property near the coast, vertical wire balustrades and pool fences are a great option, not only for their aesthetic value, but also because they are practical for coastal dwellings.

For more information on our or our pool fences and balustrades, call us on 1300 658 330, email us at  jen@sentrel.com.au or complete our online enquiry form.