Customize Your Kitchen With Stainless Steel Rail Systems
Stainless steel kitchen rail systems are rapidly becoming a popular way to add style, safety, and functionality to any kitchen design. With the versatility to be installed as foot rails, grab bars, towel rails, or pot racks, stainless steel rails provide sturdy support while complementing both traditional and contemporary decor.
In this post, we’ll explore the many benefits of stainless steel kitchen rail systems, the different types available, and tips for selecting and installing rails that fit your unique space. Whether you’re renovating or building new, read on to learn how stainless steel rails can customize and enhance your kitchen.
Types of Stainless Steel Kitchen Rail Systems
Foot Rails
Foot rails are installed near countertops or islands to provide stability and support. They help prevent slips and falls, while also giving feet and legs a comfortable place to rest during long periods of standing or food prep. Foot rails come in various styles, including curved rails mounted to cabinet sides, straight rails along the base of islands, and L-shaped rails that wrap around corners.
Grab Bars
Grab bars are essential stainless steel rails that improve accessibility and safety. They provide a sturdy handle to grasp when entering or exiting the kitchen. Grab bars can be installed vertically, horizontally, or diagonally on walls, cabinets, and other surfaces. Different designs are available, from industrial grab bars with thick diameters to more elegant small-profile bars.
Towel Rails
Towel rails provide convenient storage to hang and dry kitchen towels, freeing up valuable counter space. They can be mounted to walls, cabinets, islands, or other surfaces. Styles range from simple railings with hooks to more ornate designs incorporating shelves and rods. Positioning towel rails near cooking areas allows for easy access when needed.
Pot Racks
Stainless steel pot racks provide overhead storage for hanging pots, pans, utensils, and more. Wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted, pot racks maximize space by keeping necessities off the counters while still keeping them easily accessible. Hanging rails can be customized to fit small wall sections or span the length of the entire kitchen.
Benefits of Stainless Steel Kitchen Rails
Durability
Stainless steel contains chromium that forms an invisible passive layer protecting it from corrosion. This makes it highly resistant to rust, scratches, and wear from daily use. Stainless steel is able to withstand high traffic, frequent handling, and exposure to water and heat. Its longevity makes it a sound investment for long-term use.
Easy Maintenance
One of stainless steel’s best qualities is how simple it is to clean and maintain. Just an occasional wipe down with a soft cloth or non-abrasive cleaner is all that is needed to restore its shine and luster. It repels water spots, fingerprints, grease buildup, and other kitchen messes. This ease of care saves the hassle of frequent polishing.
Customization
Stainless steel kitchen rails can be designed and configured to fit any kitchen decor. With various sizes, shapes, and styles available, they can be customized to match the exact height, width, and arrangement needed. This adaptability makes stainless rails ideal for open concept, galley, L-shaped, and U-shaped kitchen layouts.
Safety
Kitchen rails provide important assistance and stability where it’s needed most. The sturdy steel construction gives a reliable grip and secure support to reduce the chance of falls. For elderly individuals or those with mobility issues, stainless steel rails improve accessibility and safety. They also help make kitchen tasks more comfortable and secure.
Installation of Stainless Steel Kitchen Rails
The first step is to take precise measurements of the kitchen area where rails will be installed. Consider the best height, depth, and angle based on countertops, cabinets, and overall room layout. Measure carefully as custom stainless steel rails will be cut to fit your space.
Next, decide the ideal installation method – wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, or freestanding. Wall-mounted rails attach securely and directly to wall studs. Ceiling-mounted pot racks hang from the ceiling with steel cables. Freestanding towel racks simply sit on counters without needing attachment.
Once measurements are complete and mounting method is selected, it’s time to purchase equipment. This includes the stainless steel rails, mounting brackets, wall anchors, screws, and any other installation hardware needed. Buy pieces made to fit your precise measurements.
With all materials ready, it’s time for installation. Carefully follow the product instructions for properly mounting rails. Use the right tools and techniques to ensure rails are firmly fixed. Test the stability by gently holding and pushing rails before regular use.
Style Ideas for Stainless Steel Kitchen Rails
An eclectic look can be achieved by mixing and matching different railings like combining towel rails and pot racks. Contrasting metal finishes like brass foot rails or bronze grab bars also add flair.
Selecting rails that share finishes and hardware with kitchen cabinets and fixtures creates a coordinated look. Matching stainless steel knobs and handles with steel rails pulls the whole space together.
Emphasize Design Elements
Strategically place rails to accentuate architectural details like backsplashes and accent walls. Positioning rails to align with kitchen islands and peninsulas also draws attention to key areas.
Add Visual Interest
Use railings in creative spots like staircases leading to lofts or breakfast bar areas to add sleek visual lines. Incorporate contemporary rail shapes like zig-zags and curves for modern flair.
With strength, simplicity, and versatility, stainless steel kitchen rail systems are an excellent solution for customizing your space. Following proper selection and installation methods ensures rails provide helpful assistive support safely and reliably. Whether for added function, safety, or pure aesthetics, stainless steel rails perfectly blend form and function.
Kitchen rails are just one example of the many uses for durable and low-maintenance stainless steel throughout the home. No matter your desired look, stainless steel is sure to be a perfect fit.