Aluminum and glass railings are an eco-conscious choice building design, seamlessly integrating with sustainable building practices.
This blog takes a closer look at the environmental impact of choosing glass and aluminum railings for your next residential or commercial project – emphasizing their durability, energy efficiency, LEED potential, and recyclability.
Glass & Aluminum Are Durable & Long-Lasting
Aluminum and glass railings are renowned for their durability and longevity.
With proper maintenance and cleaning, aluminum and glass railing systems can last for several decades.
Tempered glass panels offer crystal clear views, strength, and scratch resistance.
At DekSmart Railings, we guarantee that our aluminum and glass railing systems will remain free from material and manufacturing defects for a period of 20 years from the date of purchase.
By reducing waste generation over time, aluminum and glass railing systems demonstrate not only durability and longevity, but also a commitment to sustainability.
The Environmental Benefits of Powder Coated Aluminum
Powder coating further contributes to the longevity of aluminum railings, offering exceptional protection against environmental factors.
DekSmart Railings employs a comprehensive two-stage process for powder coating its exposed aluminum components. The treatment involves a multi-stage pretreatment process, including a heated alkaline solution, rinses, a sealer coat, and oven drying. Following this, the powder coat finish is electrostatically applied and cured, with options for standard or custom colors.
Powder coating enhances the inherent sturdiness of aluminum, forming a robust structure resistant to moisture, rust, peeling, and damage from UV radiation. Powder coated aluminum deck railings also last significantly longer than railings that use traditional paint.
The powder coating process produces minimal pollutants and reduces the need for frequent recoating or replacement, aligning with eco-friendly practices and sustainable development.
Energy-Efficient Design
Glass railings allow natural light to permeate into exterior & interior spaces, diminishing the reliance on artificial lighting during daylight hours. With an inherent energy efficiency, glass railings support reduced energy consumption and contribute to sustainable and eco-friendly design.
Low Maintenance Requirements
Compared to alternative materials like wood, wrought iron, or steel, aluminum and glass railings demand minimal cleaning and maintenance.
Powder coated aluminum components protect against environmental factors and only require a simple cleaning with soap, water, and a clean cloth.
Lower maintenance translates into fewer resources utilized for repairs and replacements over the system’s life cycle, further contributing to glass railing systems environmental credentials.
Reduced Environmental Impact in Production
While glass manufacturing is an energy-intensive process, recent innovations in glass manufacturing techniques – such as incorporating more energy-efficient machinery – have yielded more efficient processes.
Some glass manufacturers incorporate recycled materials into glass railing production, further improving their environmental footprint and minimizing the use of raw materials.
Recyclability and Aluminum Enhancement
Recyclability is a standout feature of aluminum and glass railings. Glass, being both chemically inert and highly recyclable, lessens the demand for new raw materials, and minimizes landfill waste. When paired with aluminum railing posts, this sustainability factor is amplified.
Aluminum is renowned for its closed-loop recycling capabilities, which means that it can be recycled into new products over and over again. The use of recycled aluminum is estimated to use 95 percent less energy than producing primary aluminium.
At DekSmart Railings, we have an onsite aluminum recycling program that ensures that our aluminum products are not only durable, but also sustainable.
Green Building Alignment
Glass railings seamlessly align with green building practices and certifications like LEED.
Their incorporation into construction projects can earn points in categories related to sustainable site development, energy efficiency, and material selection – especially when the glass and aluminum components are produced with recycled materials. Today, over 60% of the aluminum used in buildings today comes from recycled materials.
The construction industry is moving towards a zero-carbon future, with recyclable building materials like aluminum becoming more and more popular.
The global aluminum market, which includes the construction industry, is projected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 3.5% between 2024 to 2029.
By incorporating green building materials like aluminum, construction projects can effectively reduce their carbon footprint, conserve natural resources, and minimize waste generation throughout the building’s life cycle
Wrapping Up the Environmental Impact of Glass Railings
In conclusion, glass railings present a myriad of eco-friendly attributes, from recyclability and energy efficiency to low maintenance requirements. Integrating these elements into a holistic sustainable building approach showcases a commitment to environmental conservation and responsible construction practices.
The use of aluminum & glass railings in construction projects not only adds aesthetic value but also contributes significantly to the sustainability and energy efficiency of the building, making them an excellent choice for green building projects.
DekSmart Railings | Eco-friendly Aluminum & Glass Railing Systems
At DekSmart Railings, we emphasize environmental stewardship in all facets of our operations.
Our internal air and water filtration systems, energy-efficient LED lighting, and streamlined Lean manufacturing practices not only diminish our environmental impact but also maintain cost competitiveness for our clients. Through our onsite aluminum recycling initiative, we guarantee that our aluminum products exhibit both durability and sustainability, playing a role in fostering a cleaner and more eco-friendly world.
We offer a variety of glass railing solutions for residential and commercial properties across the USA and Canada. With over 20 years of company history and a Limited Warranty, you can count on us for a long-lasting solution.
Available with 5mm & 10mm tempered glass, powder coated aluminum posts in 5 standard colours, 2 non-standard, and countless custom colors which comply to A.A.M.A. 2604, our glass railings provide solutions for any aesthetic and project size.
Contact our sales team or browse our glass railing products online – including topless Scenic Glass Railings, Privacy Glass Railings, and traditional glass railings with a top and bottom bar.
