Balustrades are more than just a safety feature—they’re a design statement that can transform your staircase or deck into a standout feature of your home. One of the most popular options we install is the combination of hardwood timber posts and marine-grade stainless steel cables. This design seamlessly blends timeless elegance with modern simplicity, while delivering the safety and strength required under the building code.
If you’re considering this option for your project, here’s everything you need to know—from its design flexibility to compliance with Australian building standards.
Why Choose Hardwood and Stainless Steel?
Timeless Aesthetic: Hardwood timber posts offer rich, natural tones that bring warmth to any space, while stainless steel cables provide a sleek, minimalist finish. Together, they strike the perfect balance between style and function.
Unobstructed Views: The horizontal stainless steel cables maintain an open, airy feel, ideal for outdoor spaces where views are a priority.
Durability: With marine-grade stainless steel, this design holds up against coastal conditions and high-exposure areas, ensuring longevity without compromising on appearance.
Design Versatility: A huge advantage of this system is that it can be paired with other options. For example:
Glass panels on the deck to create a seamless, contemporary look.
Stainless steel cables on the stairs to maintain an open, functional design while meeting code requirements.
Building Code Requirements for Balustrades
When installing balustrades in Australia, it’s critical to ensure they meet the National Construction Code (NCC) and relevant Australian Standards, particularly AS 1170.1 and AS 1657 for safety. Here’s how hardwood timber balustrades with stainless steel cables comply:
Height Requirements:
For decks, balconies, or stairs with a fall greater than 1 metre, the balustrade height must be a minimum of 1 metre (1000mm) above the floor level.
For stairs, the balustrade height is measured vertically from the nosing of the stair tread.
Cable Tension:
Stainless steel cables must be installed with the correct tension to prevent sagging and ensure safety.
Cables must not allow a 125mm sphere to pass through at any point (this ensures that small children cannot slip through).
In high-use areas, additional support or spacing adjustments may be required to maintain compliance under load conditions.
Post Spacing:
Timber posts must be spaced at appropriate intervals to maintain cable tension. Generally, posts should be no more than 2 metres apart.
Load Requirements:
The balustrade system must be able to withstand the forces outlined in the NCC, ensuring it is strong enough to handle applied loads without deformation.
Combining Glass and Cables
One of the biggest trends in outdoor design is the combination of materials to suit different areas of the space. For example:
Use frameless glass panels on your deck or balcony to maintain uninterrupted views and add a clean, contemporary look.
Run stainless steel cables down the staircase for functionality, durability, and a cost-effective solution.
This combination creates a visually cohesive design that flows seamlessly from deck to stairs while adhering to the required safety standards.
Built to Last, Designed to Impress
Hardwood timber balustrades with stainless steel cables are more than just practical—they’re a stylish addition to any home. With compliance at the forefront and design flexibility that allows you to combine glass and cable systems, you can create a space that is not only beautiful but also safe and structurally sound.
Whether you’re building a new deck, staircase, or upgrading an existing one, this option ensures you don’t have to compromise on style or safety.
Looking for more information? Get in touch with us today to explore the best balustrade solution for your home!
