Several factors determine what type of post we might choose for which railing application. Aesthetics and safety are often primary drivers, while ease of installation and price are not far behind. Availability for both round railing posts and square posts is pretty widespread; so which one is right for your project?
Round Railing Posts for Concrete Embedment
One of the first things to consider when choosing which type of post is right for you, is the application. For example; let’s take a fascia mounted vs. core drilled or cast in concrete post setting. For the fascia mounted scenario the flat face on the square railing post will be more suited for bolting directly to a flat deck fascia. A round post in this situation would typically require a mounting plate or a higher level of skill to install.
From a cost standpoint, the round post in this scenario will likely cost more because of the extra mounting effort. and/or welding. However, when considering the same two posts and the use of a core drilled hole, the situation changes drastically. A round post will offer more flexibility inside of the round hole, as the diagonal cross section of the square post will actually require more space. Additionally, if the same size hole is considered, the round post will offer more flexibility and a possibly easier installation than the square post.
Square Post vs. Round Railing Post Installation
In theory, a round post should be easier to install than a square post when it comes to lining them out or facing with a string. However, when it comes to attaching your rails, the square post might be easier because of it’s flat face. Attaching a flat rail to a round post can also compromise sturdiness because of the small surface area available for the connection between flat and round. We often recommend round products used for graspable rails and welded or sleeved applications vs. mechanical connections like screws and bolts for this reason.
Durability is good with both types of posts, however a slight edge towards the round railing post material. In the event of a person or pet running into the post, a round support post should deflect the blow a bit more efficiently. Additionally considering any damage due to sitting water, weather conditions and or UV exposure ; would be slightly more reduced by the rounded face vs. a flat face. Any machining of round vs. square post types would be easier with the square products. DIY customers in general stand to benefit from the use of square post products.
Aesthetically each type of railing post can be attractive and suitable for almost any application. Typically when it comes to cable or glass railings, a round post will be a more classic look. A square railing post would be utilized for a more modern look. Round stainless posts have been utilized for decades on sailboats, dock railings and other marine type environments with great success.
At the end of the day, selecting between round railing posts or square railing posts is largely going to be a preference. The guidelines described in this article should help potential customers isolate some variables that can make this decision easier; especially for our DIY clientele. If you have questions about which type of railing post is right for your project; give us a call at 844-277-7327 or visit the quote request page for a free estimate.
