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Benefits of Powder Coated Finishes for Aluminum and Stainless Steel For more than 50 years powder coating has been a popular process for enhanced aesthetics and protection of metal surfaces. Powder coated finishes are used in almost every major manufacturing industry; most commonly furniture, architecture and automotive industries to name a few. The popularity of powder coating is largely credited to the durability as well as the wide range of colors and textures available. The powder coating process begins with surface preparation that involves cleaning the metal pieces to remove any grease or contaminants. The surfaces are then lightly sandblasted or etched in order to bond with the powder during the curing process. Powder coating is applied to the desired surfaces and then cured by baking at high temperature. The end result is a smooth coating that resembles a hard protective shell that is superior to paint. Examples listed below: -Durability- Because powder coated finishes utilize a thermal bonding process, they are more resistant to chemicals, cleaners, scratching and chipping. Powders do not drip or run, resulting in a more even finish than those provided by paint. -Versatility- There are literally hundreds if not thousands of options for powder coat colors and textures. At SDCR we use state of the art coatings by companies like Tiger and Cardinal in order to offer our customers the best that the industry has to offer. -Safety- Powder coated finishes do not contain solvents and are generally free of VOC’s (volatile organic compounds). Many of the fire and health hazards that exist with paint are not associated with powder. San Diego Cable Railings offers powder coated finishes on all of our most popular railing posts and top rails. Our company offers galvanized, stainless steel, and aluminum framing systems that can be coated for interior or exterior use. If you have questions about our stock powder coated colors would like an estimate for a custom color please visit the quote request page.
Selecting Alternative Infill Options for Aluminum Railing Systems Occasionally our customers have inquiries about building considerations that may require alternative options to stainless cable railing infill. For these situations our aluminum railing packages can offer versatility and code compliance at cost effective price points. Below is a list of alternative railing infill options as well as possible pros and cons for each option: Glass Panels- If a windbreak is needed, glass panels are a top choice among professionals. Tempered glass panels are shatter resistant and can be tinted or obscured if privacy is desired. A high quality tempered glass panel that is kept clean can provide a solid barrier with a completely unobstructed view. Pros– clear views, aesthetics, wind break Possible Cons– little fingerprints, maintenance Vertical Pickets- Preserving or matching existing aesthetics can be a common consideration at large complexes and home owners associations. For customers that need to match an existing look, aluminum picket railings can provide a low maintenance replacement to wood picket railings. Picket railings are easy to install and available in a variety of standard powder coat colors. Pros- widely recognized, availabilty, ease of install Possible Cons- obstructed views, traditional look Vertical Cables- Vertical cable systems have gained popularity in recent years. Although it is rare, some municipalities still prohibit the use of horizontal railing members. Vertical cables can be a great choice for customers who do not have the option for horizontal cable. Vertical cable railings feature the same clean lines and transparent views as horizontal cables. Pros– code compliance, aesthetics Possible Cons– cost, availability San Diego Cable Railings is an authorized distributor of Aluminum Design Rail Systems by Feeney. We can provide quotes for aluminum railing systems and installation by our preferred installers across California. If you have questions about any of the infill options discussed in this post, give us a call at 844-277-7327 or visit the quote request page.
San Diego Cable Railings Offers Aluminum Cable Railing Systems By Feeney SDCR is an authorized retailer of Aluminum Design Rail systems for interior and exterior railing applications. Design Rail is a high strength aluminum framing system most often combined with stainless steel cable infill. These systems feature several aesthetic profiles and are also available with glass panels and vertical aluminum pickets. Aluminum Cable Railing Systems are DIY friendly and come in a variety of powder coat colors and style options. Feeney products have become a welcome addition to our in house product line of stainless steel railing posts, hardware and do it yourself cable assemblies. Feeney Inc. has a 60 year history as a pioneer and leader in the architectural railing industry. In addition to Design Rail Systems, SDCR also stocks a variety of “Quick Connect” fittings. The one way self locking mechanism inside these type of fittings allows for the installer to simply cut the cable and push in into the fitting. Quick connect fittings are an awesome choice for fast easy installations with no crimping tools or special equipment necessary. Additionally, the installer has the ability to release the fitting if necessary. We are happy to feature high quality products by Feeney and offer pricing that will meet or beet industry standards. For customers who desire a turnkey sale and installation platform; SDCR offers expert assistance with all of our Feeney products. Our preferred installers have years of specialized experience with aluminum cable railing systems. Currently our network of installers services the following counties: San Diego, Orange County, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and San Fransisco. If you are interested in aluminum cable railing products or would like a quote for cable railing installation, give us a call at 844-277-7327 or visit the quote request page