Archive for March 31st, 2022

When thinking through any design/build project, we often highlight safety concerns and prevention. Fall hazards rank high on the list of residential construction codes; and tiny houses often feature lofted spaces. Maximizing these small spaces often requires storage and useable area high off the ground with a barrier. In this article we will discuss railing systems that fit the bill for tiny home usage and offer DIY friendly construction. PHOTOS : A 400 square foot custom tiny home utilizes steel posts and stainless steel cables paired with reclaimed hardwood top railings to protect the fall hazard created by a small loft area and stairs. This modular system was installed by the home owners in about a day and a half. DIY Railing Systems for Tiny Houses Wooden Bannisters Wooden spindles are a timeless choice for ease of material acquisition and low cost possibilities. A great option for reclaimed wood and green building practices. Wooden bannisters can be configured in any number of ways. However to get the “cool” aesthetic offered by more modern railings you’ll need something crafty or ultra custom. Using wood is fast and inexpensive, versatile and DIY friendly. Horizontal or vertical systems are easy to construct with standard lumber. Pipe Railings Pipe railings are very cool for industrial designs which can tie in with industrial pipe shelving and fixtures. Pipe is easy to come by, durable and versatile. Pipes are made of PVC plastic or steel, readily available and fairly cost effective. They can be painted and easily machined for hybrid wooden/pipe railing systems and mounted vertically or horizontally for a solid railing option. Modern Choices for Tiny Home Railings Cable Railings Cable railings do a lot for a tiny home loft. Quite simply they are minimal. Minimal hardware, with minimal bulk, resulting in a spacious feel for any small area. Transparency and light penetration are maximized by using cable railings. Durability and beautiful lines mean you’re covered in almost any scenario. Options abound for DIY cable railing products and ease of installation for DIY installers. Not the least expensive option, but far from the most expensive. Glass Panels Glass is an amazing building material that can be utilized for many railing applications. Glass panels can be easily sandwiched in between wooden members for a quick railing framework, or paired with posts and glass supporting clips. Much like cable railings, glass will make the space appear larger without blocking light. Tempered glass panels should always be used for barrier applications. Although it is a green choice, the use of old windows or plate glass is not recommended for railings. Glass can be DIY installed and will likely factor higher than the other options for cost. Want to learn more about railing options for your tiny house? Give us a call at 844-277-7327 or visit the quote request form today.