More than 85 per cent of the Australian population live on or near the coast – an environment constantly exposed to erosion, storms and sea salt corrosion.
Corrosion is a real problem impacting buildings located along the seashore, especially unprotected metal structures such as balustrades and pool fences on properties. Australian company Sentrel Pty Ltd has recognised the importance of developing products that cater specifically for seaside living; special considerations for pool fences and balustrades include the material’s ease of maintenance and ability to withstand corrosion. The material should additionally allow unobstructed view of the landscape.
316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel Wire
Considered the most corrosion-resistant material in its class, Grade 316 stainless steel is well suited for use in warm chloride environments, making it just right for use in pool fencing as well as seafront balustrades in the Australian climate.
Sentrel advises against the use of lower grade stainless steel in environments located in close proximity to the sea as it can lower the integrity of the material, resulting in deterioration of the structures as well as expensive repairs and frequent replacement.
In marine environments, stainless steel pool fences and balustrades can suffer tea staining, which shows up as a discolouration on the surface of the material. This is only a cosmetic discolouration and does not affect the longevity or integrity of the steel. The difference between tea staining and corrosion is that tea stained stainless steel wire can be remedied with a freshwater washdown while rust may require replacement.
Sentrel recommends the use of 316 Marine Grade stainless steel wire with Australian hardwood timber or a powder-coated aluminium rail to create an attractive and practical option for pool fencing and balustrades for beachside homes.
Balustrades for Seaside Living
Ideal for homes and commercial buildings, particularly in coastal areas, stainless steel wire balustrades are very popular, modern and stylish, and can be used either indoors or outdoors for maximum impact.
Stainless steel wire balustrades are an excellent replacement for glass due to their reduced maintenance and cleaning requirements. Glass balustrades in coastal homes are not a practical choice, given how sea salt and finger marks can collect on the glass panels, resulting in extra cleaning work for homeowners.
An additional advantage of vertical wire balustrades is their ability to provide an unobstructed view of the landscape, which cannot be matched by all-stainless steel or timber balustrades. Wire balustrades also blend in with the scenery better, and offer airflow throughout the space. The handrails can be in Australian hardwood timber or sleek aluminium.
Pool Fences for Seaside Homes
Pool fences are a necessity in Australia, but often detract from the natural outdoor surrounds. Bulky metal pool fences can really spoil beautiful ocean views; however, using glass pool fencing as an alternative may not be a great option as the sea salt will turn the glass surfaces dirty in no time unless they are cleaned frequently.
Sentrel’s vertical wire pool fences offer an uninterrupted view of the surrounds, are simple to maintain and also comply with Australian Standards for pool fencing. Pool fences can also be customised to blend with the home’s architecture with options such as Australian hardwood timber and powder-coated aluminium rails, as well as specific shades of aluminium powder-coating on the pool fence from white gloss to bronze pearl.
Stainless steel wire pool fences are suitable for homes with a small backyard, to be used around a plunge pool or a spa without limiting 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 in a seaside application.
