Understanding the Difference Between Hollow and Solid Iron Balisters

Iron balisters or balusters pertain to the decorative metal pillars used to support railings. One of the primary material used for balisters is iron. There are two primary types of iron that is commonly used for this purpose the hollow and solid iron. Understanding what these two types have to offer can guide you in making the right decision in choosing the most suitable material for your requirement.

There are specific factors that you can focus on when comparing these products. This will not only help you speed up the comparison process, it can also ensure that you have all the critical points covered. For more details, see the list below:

Comparing Hollow and Solid Iron Balisters

Compatibility

One of the most crucial parts you need to know when deciding between solid and hollow iron balisters is if they are compatible for your intended purpose. Which one will thrive outdoors and which one will perform better indoors. Outdoors, you have more external factors that can affect the performance and the condition of the iron balisters, while indoors offer a more controlled environment and less exposure to harsh elements.

Solid iron balister performs well both on exterior and interior use. The solid makeup of this material prevents it from getting easily changed or influenced by the change in weather. You just have to make sure that it's properly coated so it's protected against rust. One of the most popular types of coating used in iron balister is powder coat colors, which don’t easily wear off.

Hollow iron balisters on the other hand, are ideal for indoor use only. Outdoor harmful elements such as moisture and heat tend to easily affect the integrity of hollow iron. The change in temperature can cause moisture to build up from the inside, resulting in rust problem that can eventually damage the iron.

Ductility

Solid iron balisters are more ductile, which gives it high tolerance to pressure, allowing the blacksmith to manipulate this material in various shapes and design with fewer limitations and more freedom. This is the foremost reason why solid iron come in a wider variety of choices when it comes to design.

Hollow iron on the other hand has lesser tolerance to pressure used for shaping and designing. Although, the number of design options that you can yield from this material also comes in a wide array it is still considered lesser when compared against solid iron balisters. Nevertheless, both materials offer great designs, which are why iron balister is the most popular choice among most households.

Price

Between solid and hollow iron balisters, solid balisters are often more expensive due to the manpower required for designing, shaping, transporting and iron baluster installation. Hollow iron on the other hand, tends to be cheaper because it requires less manpower to do the same with this material, especially since its lighter.

The details provided here are some of the highlights that you must consider when choosing iron balisters for your property.