Vertical bars are one of the most established designs for balcony railings. The lines are rhythmic and understated, allowing light and air to pass through, and complement nearly every architectural style—from turn-of-the-century homes to newly built single-family homes. This project demonstrates how a classic balcony railing made of vertical bars can be both understated and natural, without trying to be something it isn’t.
Vertical Bars on Balcony Railings—Why Their Design Endures Decade After Decade
The strength of the vertical railing lies in its neutrality. The slats run straight up and down at regular intervals, creating a calm rhythm without any strong visual impact. The railing does not compete with the facade, the furnishings, or the view—it simply does its job and frames the balcony without drawing attention to itself.
It is also the design that most closely replicates the Swedish National Board of Housing, Building and Planning’s requirements—a maximum gap of 100 mm between the slats—without the need for additional components such as intermediate rails. The railing combines safety and aesthetics in a single design.
Material of the closing rail—aluminum, stainless steel, or wrought iron?
Vertical slatted railings are available in a few different styles, and the choice of material depends on the balcony's surroundings and the look you're going for
| Materials | Character | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Powder-coated aluminum | Smooth, colorless surface, modern or classic | Clean with mild soap—nothing else |
| Stainless steel (AISI 316L) | Matte or glossy metallic finish | Wipe-down, no paint to maintain |
| Painted Wrought-Iron Railing | Classic forged look | Less maintenance for powder-coated aluminum |
The 100-mm Rule and Other Factors Governing the Design of the Railing
The most important regulatory requirement for a balcony railing with balusters is the 100-mm rule: the opening between balusters must not exceed 100 mm. This is to prevent a child’s head from getting stuck between the balusters. The railing must also be at least 1,100 mm high when the fall height exceeds 1.0 meters, and the balusters themselves must not run horizontally in their primary direction on a residential balcony—that would make them climbable. The details can be found in the Swedish National Board of Housing, Building and Planning’s building codes.
The spacing between the rails is not just a matter of regulation—it also affects how the railing is perceived. Closely spaced rails (40–60 mm) create a sturdier, more protective feel. Wider spacing (closer to 90 mm) creates a more open and airier look. Both are within regulatory requirements.
What thickness and color are best?
The thickness of the balusters matters more than you might think. Thin balusters (12–16 mm in diameter) create a more modern and lighter look. Thicker balusters (20–25 mm) give a more classic, wrought-iron-like character. For a balcony on a classic villa or an older house, the thicker proportions are usually the right choice—on a modern, architect-designed house, the thinner ones are more suitable.
The color should complement the facade. Black works well with wood facades and light-colored stucco. White suits dark houses. Anthracite (RAL 7016) has become a popular middle ground for modern homes. All of our picket railings come in any RAL color as standard.
Three things to consider before placing an order
- Measure the entire length of the balcony edge, including corners and obstacles. Custom measurements cost nothing extra and result in a seamless line with no visible seams.
- Decide on the mounting method. On the outside of the balcony railing (traditional, frees up floor space) or on the balcony floor (more modern, takes up slightly more space toward the interior).
- Choose the thickness of the balusters based on the character of the house. Classic house = thicker balusters. Modern house = thinner. There are no rules dictating your choice—but the proportions determine the overall look of the railing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Balcony Railings with Vertical Bars
What is the 100-mm rule?
The Swedish National Board of Housing, Building, and Planning’s rule regarding a maximum 100 mm gap between balusters is in place to prevent a child’s head from getting stuck between the balusters. This is a child safety requirement that applies to all balcony railings in residential buildings, regardless of material.
Can I use horizontal bars instead?
On residential balconies, horizontal bars running the length of the railing are not permitted because they can be used as a climbing ladder by children. Cable railings are an exception because the cables do not provide a foothold. For commercial environments such as warehouses or industrial facilities, the rules may differ.
Which color ages best?
Powder-coated aluminum ages well in all RAL colors. Dark colors (black, anthracite) hide minor scratches better, while light colors (white, beige) reflect more heat. Textured paint (matte finish) ages more evenly than glossy paint.
How long does a powder-coated balcony railing last?
A high-quality powder-coated aluminum railing on a Swedish balcony has a lifespan of 30+ years in a normal environment. It’s not the railing itself that wears out first—it’s often the facade or the balcony that needs to be renovated before the railing does. Aluminum doesn’t rust, the finish doesn’t peel, and heavy balcony railings are usually replaced for aesthetic reasons rather than because they’ve worn out.
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