Why Marine-Grade Railing Is Essential for Beachfront Properties

Owning a beachfront property is a dream come true. The ocean views, soothing waves, and salty breeze create an unmatched lifestyle. However, these coastal benefits come with unique challenges, especially for outdoor structures. Within two miles of saltwater, your outdoor railings face relentless exposure to salt, humidity, and wind, all of which accelerate corrosion and wear. That’s where Stainless Cable & Railing’s marine-grade materials make the difference!

The Hidden Dangers of Coastal Corrosion

One of the most significant challenges of maintaining property in coastal areas is corrosion. The salty air near the ocean accelerates rusting and deterioration in materials that are not specifically designed to handle such harsh environments. Even new cars run the risk of developing corrosion on exposed metal when exposed to salty environments over time. You may have noticed the surface rust that can accumulate on your car’s brake rotors after driving in the rain – Imagine your railing looking like that! There’s something to be said for a nice patina, but it isn’t what we would recommend for longevity in our products.

Salt air is the silent enemy to traditional railing materials, and the sea breeze does a great job carrying it vast distances. Even if you can’t see the beach from your window, that air can reek havoc on any exposed metal within reach. Lesser grade stainless steel and untreated metals can begin to show signs of corrosion in less than a year if not diligently maintained, and even then, there are risks. If left unchecked, this degradation can lead to costly replacements and safety hazards.

Some materials are better suited to the brutal salt air than others, and we at Stainless Cable & Railing have carefully selected our stock of 2507 Grade Stainless Steel cable, fittings, posts and top rail to deal with this issue.

Why Choose 2507 Grade Stainless Steel?

Our 2507 Grade stainless steel is specifically designed to thrive in harsh coastal environments. Known for its superior resistance to pitting, crevice corrosion, and stress corrosion cracking, this duplex stainless steel offers:

• Enhanced Durability: With twice the strength of regular stainless steel, 2507 grade resists chemical wear and tear, even under extreme salt exposure.
• Longevity: This material ensures your railing system remains pristine and reliable for years.
• Minimal Maintenance: Spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your ocean view.

Any stainless steel isn’t completely “stainless,” or at least not impervious to dirt and stains, but compared to our standard 316 or lesser grade materials, customers won’t have to worry about over-complicated, constant upkeep to maintain a shiny new cable railing system.

Anodized Aluminum for a Stylish, Resilient Solution

While 2507 Grade Stainless Steel is our hand-selected coastal railing solution for salty environments, our customers wanted more options – so we listened! Any of our railing options can be mated with wood top rail of your choosing, but we wanted to find another corrosion-resistant metal post to beat the heat. Pairing anodized aluminum posts and top rail with our 2507 Grade Stainless Steel cable and fittings allows you to opt for a lighter, classic aluminum post stock in either “Clear” or Black finishes. Plastic grommets in the post protect the differing metals from galvanic corrosion, so it is important to check your hardware is properly installed to maintain protection. Our anodized materials also happen to be the more budget-friendly option for maintaining corrosion protection where it counts for your cable railing!

Safety in Challenging Conditions

Safety is a top priority for any home, and this is especially true for beachfront properties, where strong winds and storms are common. Marine-grade railings are not only designed to resist corrosion but are also built to withstand significant forces. These railings are engineered to provide structural stability and can handle the tension required to keep cable systems taut over time.

Cable railing systems offer an additional inherent advantage in high-wind areas. The slender design of the cables allows wind to pass through more freely compared to solid materials, naturally deflecting the wind’s force. This reduces pressure on the overall structure, minimizing the risk of damage during storms. Properly installed systems, using reinforced posts and high-quality hardware, provide enhanced safety while maintaining durability in harsh coastal conditions.

Does Your Project Need Cable Railing?

Marine-grade railing is an essential feature for beachfront properties, providing durability, easy maintenance, and safety in challenging coastal environments. These railings not only protect against the harsh effects of salty air and strong winds but also enhance the beauty and overall value of your home. By investing in high-quality materials and proper installation, homeowners can enjoy peace of mind with the breathtaking views that make beachfront living so special!

Contact Stainless Cable & Railing today to learn more about our marine-grade railing solutions. Visit us online and fill out our free estimate request form or call 888-686-7245 to speak with our experts and start your project today!