Handrails are important structural elements that provide safety in our buildings and also provide an aesthetic appearance. While they increase safety by minimizing the risk of falling on stairs, balconies, terraces and similar heights, they also make significant contributions to architectural designs. As El-Pen, we bring together the safety and aesthetics of your living spaces with handrail solutions tailored to you.
Handrails are usually used together with railings and form the hand-held part of the railings. They can be produced from various materials and in different designs. Materials such as wood, metal, glass, PVC offer options suitable for different architectural styles and budgets. As El-Pen, we help you find the most suitable handrail solution with our wide product range and expert team.
What is a Handrail?
A handrail is the name given to the hand-held part of the railings used to prevent falls at heights such as stairs, balconies or terraces. It is usually produced from the same material as the railing and helps people hold on and maintain balance. Handrails also make an aesthetic contribution to architectural designs.
Types of Handrails
Handrails are divided into different types according to the material used, design and application area.
Material Types:
Metal Handrails: Handrails made of metals such as stainless steel, aluminum and iron stand out with their durability and modern appearance. They are frequently preferred especially in outdoor areas and industrial structures.
Wooden Handrails: Wood, a natural material, creates a warm and friendly atmosphere. It can be personalized with different color and pattern options.
Glass Handrails: Handrails made of transparent or semi-transparent glass panels provide a modern and spacious appearance.
PVC Handrails: PVC handrails, which are a light, durable and economical option, are frequently preferred in indoor areas.
Composite Handrails: Handrails made of composite materials with the appearance of wood, stone or metal offer the advantages of natural materials while being more durable.
Design Types:
Classic Designs: Designs that are suitable for traditional architecture and include ornaments and carvings.
Modern Designs: Balustrades designed with straight lines, simple details and a minimalist approach.
Artistic Designs: Original designs created using different colors, textures and shapes.
Minimalist Designs: Minimalist designs where straight lines and simple details come to the forefront, adapt to modern architecture.
Profile Types:
Round Profile: Provides a classic and traditional look.
Square Profile: Provides a modern and minimalist look.
Oval Profile: Can be used in both classic and modern designs.
Advantages of Balustrades
Safety: Creates a safe environment especially for children and elderly individuals by reducing the risk of falling.
Aesthetic Appearance: Creates an aesthetic appearance by making significant contributions to the exterior and interior architecture of buildings.
Durability: Provides long-lasting use with the right material selection and production techniques.
Easy Cleaning: Most balustrade materials are easy to clean and maintain.
Different Design Options: Offers design options suitable for all kinds of architectural styles and personal tastes.
Ergonomics: Designed to be comfortable to hold.
Handrail Applications
Handrail applications are a meticulously planned and implemented process. It generally includes the following steps:
Measurement: Detailed measurements of the area where the handrail will be applied are taken.
Material Selection: The appropriate material is selected in line with the customer's preferences and budget.
Production: Handrail parts are produced according to the selected material.
Assembly: The produced parts are assembled with fasteners suitable for the surface.
Finishing: Paint, varnish or other protective coating materials are applied when necessary.
Different Application Areas of Handrails and Current Trends
Handrails are used in many different areas:
Staircases: Handrails used on stairs provide safety during ascent and descent.
Balconies: Handrails used around balconies reduce the risk of falling and also beautify outdoor living spaces.
Terraces: Handrails used on terraces provide safety while allowing you to see the view without interruption.
Poolsides: Handrails used on poolsides are especially important for the safety of children.
Gardens: Handrails used to separate areas on different levels in gardens can also be used as a decorative element.
Penthouses: Handrails used on rooftops provide both safety and facilitate access to the rooftop.
Public Areas: Handrails used in public areas such as parks and squares provide both safety and contribute to landscaping.
Disabled Access Ramps: Ramps specially designed for disabled individuals to move safely also have handrails.
Current Handrail Trends:
Minimalist Designs: Straight lines, simple details and Designed with a minimalist approach, handrails adapt to modern architecture.
Smart Technologies: Technological solutions such as sensors and lighting systems add new features to handrails. For example, illuminated handrails that work with motion sensors both increase safety and provide an aesthetic appearance.
Sustainable Materials: The use of recyclable and environmentally friendly materials offers solutions suitable for sustainable architecture.
Disabled-Friendly Designs: In order to create barrier-free living spaces, special designs suitable for the needs of different disabled groups come to the fore.
Handrails for the Disabled
Specially designed handrails are of great importance to increase the quality of life of disabled individuals and to ensure accessibility. These handrails are designed according to the needs of different disabled groups and may have the following features:
Different Heights: Lower handrails for wheelchair users and handrails with different textures for the visually impaired.
Contrasting Colors: They may be in contrasting colors or textures so that the visually impaired can easily notice them.
Hand Support: Hand supports in different shapes and sizes that make it easier to hold on.
Soft Materials: Can be manufactured from soft materials to reduce the risk of impact.
Special Solutions for Northern Cyprus
The hot and windy climate of Northern Cyprus brings some criteria to the forefront in the selection of handrails. Durable materials such as stainless steel and aluminum and wind-resistant designs are often preferred in Northern Cyprus. In addition, designs that are compatible with traditional Cypriot architecture are also quite popular.
