About Cast Stone Balusters

Cast stone balustrades have been used for centuries throughout Europe and the world. The elegance in using a cast stone baluster verses wood is the difference of making your rail from standard to extra ordinary. The advantages of using precast balustrades are numerous. Unlike a wood baluster rail, cast stone balustrades will not warp or split when used outdoors. Another important factor to choose cast stone over wood are the endless choices of colors available. When comparing the prices of precast balusters with wood you will even appreciate cast stone more for the savings.

The durability and strength of cast stone balustrades have been proven by rails that were built decades if not centuries ago and are still standing in great condition. Precast balustrades have many versatile uses. They have been used for balconies, stairs, bridges, and around pools among other uses.

When it comes to designs and styles, Handalstone™ offers a wide variety of cast stone balusters to choose from. The legal height of balustrade rail in California is 42". One might use a shorter baluster when placing the baluster on a wall built specifically for that use. Shorter balusters are also used when legal heights are not required. If the drop where the balustrades are to be used is less than thirty inches in height than the balustrade may be shorter than forty-two inches. You must check with the county you are in to find out what are the legal heights.

When installing precast balustrades, it is important to choose a mason that is familiar with cast stone products and their installations. To determine how many balusters you need for your balustrade rail a rule of thumb would be to measure the amount of feet and convert the feet into inches then divide that by seven. For most balusters that would give you a four inch space between the balusters and that is the legal spacing. One must double check that because with different size balusters that may vary.

Cast stone piers may be desirable in may cases when building a precast balustrade. It depends on several factors such as where the balustrade begins and ends. Also, sometimes its desirable to have a pier every so often for character.

Our cast stone designers are available for your convenience to help you achieve the balustrade that would be the right fit for your project. Please do not hesitate to call or email us about any of your cast stone needs. Our staff are courteous and very knowledgeable in cast stone products.