Alpha Rail Fabrications

Guardrails improve road safety

2010-08-13T01:39:00.000-07:00

Guardrails, also known as crash barriers, are placed on roadways to prevent vehicles from driving off the edge of the road into something dangerous, such as a large object or a ravine, as well as to guide pedestrians to safe crossing points. It is dangerous to crash into a guardrail, but it is even more dangerous to go over the side of the road into whatever the rail was protecting. For this reason, guardrails are normally only placed where crossing the road boundary would be more dangerous than hitting the guardrail.

Guardrails are usually found on the sides of roadways, and sometimes in the central divider, to keep vehicles from crossing into oncoming traffic. There are different kinds of rails used for different purposes. The A-profile barrier, or Armco, is most often found at the edge of the roadway. These barriers are made to bend or break when hit by a vehicle, therefore absorbing some of the impact and deflecting the vehicle back onto the roadway.

Guardrails benefit pedestrians as well as motorists. By keeping uncontrolled vehicles on the roadway, the guardrail is effectively keeping them off the pavement or pedestrian paths. For pedestrians, a guardrail can mean the difference between life and death.

As well as improving safety for pedestrians and motorists, decorative guardrails can also brighten up drab city centres and streets by using colour and creative designs.

It is hard to standardize guardrails for all types of vehicles. Types that are made to work best when impacted by cars can be too low for lorries. Guardrails that work well with lorries may be too tall for motorcycles. Despite this difficulty, guardrail technology has been improving, and injuries due to impact with guardrails have gone down. This is in a large part due to new designs in barriers and especially the ends of the barriers, and to improved motorist awareness.

Optirail is another form of guardrail that is improving road safety. When installing guardrails there is always the possibility that the motorist’s vision will be obscured. This in turn puts pedestrians at risk at crossing points where the driver may not have seen the pedestrian approaching. Optirail is a high visibility guardrail that eliminates this problem by using slanted bars allowing motorists to anticipate when a pedestrian may be crossing the road.

The Many Uses and Benefits of Wrought Iron Railings

2010-08-09T03:29:00.000-07:00

Iron plays an important part in the construction industry. It is a very resilient and malleable material and this allows it to be used in various designs and for different functions. The use of iron in construction does not, however, end at the super structure. Iron is also used for its aesthetic qualities most commonly in the form of wrought Iron railings. They come in various designs and styles and are used as a form of protection as well as for decorative purposes.

Safety is the primary use for iron railings and they are commonly used in schools, homes, public parks, and so on, to either keep people and animals in, or out. Furthermore they are also used in car parks, theme parks and other recreational facilities to ensure protected areas remain secure. The other primary use for iron railings is for aesthetic purposes. Different designs and styles of railings can be used to create a more styled and creative look to a property. Iron railings are also commonly used with gates, which as well as providing security benefits can also improve the exterior appearance of a property or public area.

There are many types and styles of iron railing available. Here is a summary of these. The vertical bar system is the most common and is mostly used for security purposes. Within this range are other styles and designs such as the Albany, the Westminster and Kennington versions, amongst others. The bow top style of railing is traditionally used for parks and children’s play areas. Versions within this series include the Standard bow top, interlaced bow top, in addition to four other versions. Guardrails are another use for railings, which are mostly used as pedestrian guardrails and for cordoning off street sections. There are also decorative pedestrian guardrails used to revamp otherwise drab and dreary streets.

Bespoke or custom made railings are also a popular use for iron railings. These may be used anywhere; from gates and gazebos, to theme parks and the designs are as varied as the requirements and uses. Chevron and flat top fencing are available for almost any environment and are popular choice for their simplicity. In contrast balustrades add a debonair atmosphere to any home, internal and external versions mean you can showcase the intricate metalwork designs to all and sundry.

Iron railings are so diverse and can be used for all sorts of purposes such as Juliette balconies, gates, finials, handrails, arches, barriers, cycle stands and much more making them a great addition to any property or public area.

Expanding into the Residential Market

2010-07-23T02:24:00.000-07:00

We are delighted to announce that we are expanding into the residential market and that our products and services will now be available to residential customers.

With 25 years of experience in the commercial market, all our products are of the highest quality and are built to comply with the relevant British Standard and Building Regulations.
We have products to suit any area of your home. If you’re looking for an internal balustrade, we can design decorative infill panels in different colours and finishes to make it a design feature of your home. Our Juliette balconies have proved to be very popular with our residential customers, so we have added four stunning new designs to our collection, meaning we have a design to suit every style of property.

If you’re looking to improve the safety and the external appearance of your property, then take a look at our range of bespoke gates and railings. As all our products are built to commercial building standards and regulations, you can be sure that you’re purchasing top quality products that will last for years.

Whether your home is a new build or a more period property, we have something to suit every style of building. All of our products can be supplied into the domestic market or we can assist you and help you to create your own unique design.

The Origin of the Juliette Balcony

2010-07-15T03:37:00.000-07:00

Balconies have been, then and again, beautiful additions to a building’s facade. They are more commonly seen on areas where there are beautiful views like mountain ranges or beaches. In the urban areas, balconies are built not as a part of the house to stand on but more of a architectural design to give a medieval effect.

The term Balcony came from the Old Italian word balcony which means beam. It is described as a platform protruding from a wall or building and supported by columns and enclosed with a balustrade.

Modern designs use metal railings as a substitute for balustrade.

Balconies are more often used for ceremonial purposes. In the medieval times, Kings and Queens often wave and smile to their subjects while standing on a balcony giving an effect that they are above anyone and their word is law. In Rome, Italy, a newly elected Pope first shows up on the balcony for the first time for the whole world to see. This is where the Pope also celebrates mass. In churches, the balcony is more of a place for choirs so their voices will have a resounding effect on the attendee’s ears.

The most notable balcony has been used on plays most especially in William Shakespeare’s tragedy; Romeo and Juliet. There is a scene in the play where Juliet stands on a balcony while Romeo is courting her. Because of this scene balconies have been called Juliette Balconies. Although balcony where Juliet was standing was made of concrete and enclosed by balustrades, modern balconies are designs have been improved to be cost effective and easy to install.

Manufacturers now use metal railings to support and enclose balconies. European manufacturers like Alpha Rail often seek consultancy and accreditation from the European Fencing Industry Association for a suitable design. The founders of European Fencing Industry Association aim to represent all interests in designing, manufacturing and installing of fences. Alpha Rail’s designs fit perfectly on the modern world’s tastes. Some of their designs include the Portland, the Byron, the Rufford and the Chatsworth. Because of the increasing popularity and demand of Juliette Balconies, Alpha Rail has added 4 more designs and named after United States Presidents.

The Washington balcony design has criss-cross patterns on the top and at the bottom corners of the rail for a geometric detail. The Lincoln’s design is more modern and reflects minimalism perfect for simple but more urban like homes. The Jefferson is more like the Washington with the criss-cross pattern replaced with circles but still reflects the same elegance. The Cleveland is simpler with wavy rails strategically placed after two straight ones creating an optical illusion that the whole balcony is made of gelatin.

Guardrails and Safety

2010-06-22T06:44:00.000-07:00

Guard railings are commonly installed at various institutions and facilities. There’s a high chance you come across them regularly in daily life.

Among the places where guard rails are commonly seen include schools, train stations, road sides, hospitals, stadiums and shopping centres to name a few. These fixtures are normally at waist level and are usually in place for safety or practical purposes such as forming queue lines.

Pedestrian fences and guard rails are used primarily in urban areas at busy junctions and sections of roads to both protect the public and get them to use pedestrian crossings as opposed to crossing busy roads at potentially unsuitable points.

For road safety purposes our pedestrian guardrails ensure utmost safety for pedestrians. We achieve this safety by designing our pedestrian guard rail such that passing pedestrians are highly visible to passing motorists. Our own Optirail™ high visibility pedestrian guard railings are constructed to give pedestrians approaching crossings much improved visibility to nearby motorists.

Railings installed at train and underground stations provide a very different purpose. Without an obvious way to queue, it is difficult for lines to form which is inefficient. With guard rails in place, commuters are more disciplined and ensures people line up in an orderly manner to purchase tickets.

Beyond road safety and people traffic management, railings provide those with disabilities a helping hand in getting up and down stairs and other potentially hazardous walkways.

Modern manufacturing techniques and powder coating also means railings can be produced that both serve a functional purpose while looking attractive and blending in with their surroundings. A finish can be chosen to match the look of the nearby street furniture. For the ultimate in design, custom made railings can be manufactured and can include decoration such as attractive posts and finials.

The Elegant Grandeur Of Juliette Balconies

2010-05-20T07:19:00.000-07:00

The Elegant Grandeur Of Juliette Balconies

As a perspective homeowner, the architectural structures of modern buildings has often been overlooked in favor of practicality.That's now a thing of the past, as everyone is clamoring for attractive additions which add distinction and charm.

Whether referring to townhomes, condos or single family homes, a captivating - and often practical - element is the addition of a balcony. Many envision this area as a spot for entertaining or simply relaxing on their favorite lounge chair. Nowadays there's a popular alternative to that scene - a modification of the traditional balcony.

Known as Juliette Balconies, this elegant, albeit less functional, addition is fast becoming a celebrated and stylish addition. Among homeowners who are renovating and considering add-ons, the Juliette balcony is now a mainstream in many aspects.

Taking a look at what makes this style so desirable, those who have one in their home can attest to its worth. To the beholder's eye from outside, this ornate feature might appear to be an impractical appendage. Looks are deceiving in this case, because this home accessory does actually serve a purpose.

The railing is typically installed in front of a sliding glass door, or two french-style doors. Not only does this provide an enchanting allure, it enables you to open your door(s) wide, imbuing the room with an airy and breezy ambiance. When a simple window is not enough, you will have the benefit of a fully functional sliding glass door (or french doors). This iron railing will also provide insurance of safety, as it will act as a window guard.

You'll find this design becoming increasingly popular in modern apartments and townhomes. The name is taken from the classic scene from the love-inspired script of Romeo and Juliette. For those who feel the ordinary balcony is too commonplace, and desire something a bit more inspired, the Juliette Balcony offers a semblance of romantic flair.

There are various patterns, shapes and designs to choose from when selecting to install a Juliette Balcony. In some designs there might be a consolidation of several materials being used to give the piece distinction. If so inclined, one might plan on undertaking this job themselves in a do-it-yourself home project. Taking on such a DIY project however would require knowledge. It's a safer bet in most situations to leave the addition to a trained and skilled professional who has experience in constructing and installing Juliette Balconies.

ALPHA RAIL CELEBRATES 25 YEARS!

2010-03-19T02:50:00.000-07:00

This year we are celebrating our 25th year of trading. Here, Phil Ball, Sales Director, reflects on what should be an exciting year ahead for the company.

“When the business was first established, it was based on a number of principles, which still ring true today. Good customer service, a quality product and UK manufacturing. Not many companies, especially in our industry can claim to offer all these things. Some have, for example, allowed themselves to start competing on price, which means the quality of the product has suffered. Others have cut their prices by sourcing from the Far East, which means clients often end up with an inferior quality product that doesn’t look as good or last very long either. Added to this are the extended lead times from these regions, which can result in numerous issues on site.

Very few of our competitors have managed to keep their own team of skilled craftsmen and a UK manufacturing plant, whereas we have! This means we can be extremely responsive to customer requirements and deliver bespoke products at good value prices. We are proud of our commitment to UK manufacturing and it is our dedication to quality and service that has ensured we are still around today!

We haven’t stood still or become complacent over the years either. We have extended our range, so we can offer both standard and bespoke products to meet customer needs in both the commercial and domestic markets. Three years ago, we responded to market demand with a new range of Juliette Balconies. We have since added new designs to meet buyer requirements and market trends, in helping them make the most of their attractive French windows and patio doors.

Over the years, we’ve gained an in-depth understanding of the needs of our customers, whether they be contractors, local authorities, housebuilders, housing associations, park authorities and groundwork trusts or individual self builders. That means we have the experience to advise clients on what product best meets their needs.

We have also invested in our business and quality assurance is vitally important to us. We secured ISO 9001 and were one of the first in our industry to secure ISO14001 the internationally recognised environmental standard, back in 2004. This meant we could demonstrate the quality standards in place to work on a number of high profile public and private sector projects, whilst also demonstrating high levels of environmental responsibility. We also became accredited to the Contractors Health & Safety Assessment scheme, which meant we could work on any UK site without any health & safety issues.

Partnership has been core to our success. We have developed strong working relationships with contractors, local authorities and other customers. They have come to recognise that we can be relied upon to offer complete project management, from site surveys, to design assisted services and working out often complex calculations to ensure the product delivered is accurate and fit for purpose.

One of the reasons for our success, we think, is our versatility. We offer a truly flexible service, whether a customer wants a standard set of vertical bar railings, a design for a finial replicating in a historic style, right through to a completely contemporary style of gate incorporating a school’s name and children’s pictures.

Whatever the size of job, we project manage the whole process. This means we offer product unfinished, supply only, site painting or with full powder coating.

We’ve worked all over the country in the past 25 years, from providing gates and railings to Battersea Park in London, to railings alongside the beachfront at Scarborough and huge film camera sculptures at Elstree Studios!

We are proud of our achievements and now in our 25th year, we would like to thank our customers for their loyalty and commitment over the years. Myself and all the team at Alpha Rail look forward to continuing to deliver you a high quality product at the right price, to meet your requirements."

War Memorial Protected and Preserved with New Railings

2010-02-01T02:19:00.000-08:00

One of the UK’s leading manufacturers of bespoke architectural metalwork, Alpha Rail, has manufactured and supplied decorative railings to protect a war memorial, situated in Nelson Square in Bolton.

Bolton Council specified vertical bar railings, after veterans and local people complained that the war memorial was being damaged by vandals. In an ironic twist, back in the 1940s, the previous railings that protected it were taken down to aid in the War effort.

The railings have decorative finials, with an attractive arrow head design which was used to complement the style of other original listed railings nearby. The design of the railings included an attractive Poppy motif, as a symbol of remembrance, as well as the red rose of Lancashire. Almost 23 metres of 1.4m high railings were supplied by Alpha Rail, which provide protection to the war memorial and created a secluded area around which war veterans and local people could gather on Remembrance Day.

Main contractor County Landscapes Ltd commissioned Alpha Rail to design-assist and produce the decorative railings, to meet the Council’s Landscape Architect’s exact specification. The railings were then jet black powder coated by the metalwork company to provide a superior and long lasting finish.

Keith Wells from County Landscapes said: “The memorial is the first stage of a larger project, which will see the perimeter of the area also benefiting from decorative railings. We have worked with Alpha Rail before and knew their capabilities in creating a technical railing design that met the client’s requirements perfectly.”

Phil Ball, Sales Director at Alpha Rail, explains: “The project brief for the decorative railings was extremely detailed and gave us the opportunity to demonstrate our design-assist services and the skills of our fabricators. Many local authorities are recognising the benefits of investing in their local parks and landscaped areas in order to protect and preserve them for the enjoyment of local people and the benefit of future generations.”

Alpha Rail, which is based in Nottinghamshire, has extensive experience in creating stunning and technical railings for schools, parks and gardens alike. The Nelson Square War Memorial is the latest in a list of prestigious projects that Alpha Rail has supplied with new railings and gates, with others including the Netteswell memorial, St Leonard’s Gardens Dorchester Gardens, Wollaton Park in Nottingham, Battersea Park in Wandsworth (winner of a Civic Trust Award), Roundhay Park in Leeds and Handsworth Park in Birmingham.

DECORATIVE ARCH PROVIDES FOCAL POINT FOR NEW COMMUNITY GARDEN

2009-10-09T02:20:00.000-07:00

Press Release: October 2009
A decorative arch has been given pride of place at the entrance to a regenerated community garden in Stoke-on-Trent, with the arch produced by specialist metalwork manufacturer Alpha Rail.

The new community garden came about as a result of a partnership between Stoke-on-Trent City Council, Staffordshire Housing Association and the local residents association, Stokevill Residents, in a project that aimed to regenerate a green space in the area.

The decorative arch replaced a high stone boundary wall, which was taken down and lowered in places to enable residents living on both sides to access the community garden. The area now provides a focal point and a gateway to Stoke town, creating a positive first impression for people coming into the area.

Alpha Rail supplied landscape contractors Jack Moody with the decorative arch and vertical bar railings that ran at either side of it. The bespoke metalwork specialist supplied the design to meet the architect’s exact specification, which was for an Art Nouveau style arch, featuring a motif that reflected the style produced at the local Minton Hollins tile factory. The world-renowned manufacturer, which was founded in 1895, was based on the same road in Stoke.

Alpha Rail reproduced the stunning motif as the centrepiece of the archway, which was produced from mild galvanized steel, to help instill a sense of pride into the area, as well as reflect its cultural heritage. Angela Gaffney, from landscape architecture firm Hulme Upright, said: “We felt that an ornate archway produced from metalwork would open up the garden and create an attractive focal point. As the archway lies alongside a road that is a main thoroughfare into Stoke, the archway will be seen by many thousands of passers-by every day. We are really pleased with the end result.”

Phil Ball, Sales Director at Alpha Rail, explains: “The decorative arch is an important feature of the area and has opened up the whole garden to both sides of the community. It required a quite intricate design, which took advantage of our design-assist services to produce a truly stunning result. Metal Railings and gates play an important part in enhancing an area and we were delighted to be involved in a project of this type that means so much to the local community.”

Alpha Rail has over 20 years experience in manufacturing railings and gates and counts many housing associations, private developers and local authorities amongst its customers. The company has gained a reputation in the industry for the quality of its products, which are backed up by exceptional customer service.

For more information on bespoke architectural railings, contact Alpha Rail on 01623 750214 or visit the website www.alpharail.co.uk.

Fantastic Four - New Styles Added to Juliette Range

2009-09-09T06:58:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE: September 2009

Alpha Rail has introduced four exciting new designs to its range of Juliette balconies.

Taking their inspiration from four great US presidents are the Washington, Lincoln, Jefferson and Cleveland designs. All four are distinctly different, with the Washington having an attractive criss-cross pattern to the top and bottom, the Lincoln features two attractive panels, which continues the contemporary trend for panelled doors, the Jefferson has circular detailing to the top and bottom and finally, the Cleveland, features regular intervals of wavy lines to add an innovative twist to this attractive style.

These latest additions to the range means Alpha Rail now offers 8 stunning designs of Juliettes for homeowners and developers to choose from. With many developers fitting patio doors or full height windows at all levels, Juliette balconies enable residents to make the most of natural light in their properties.

The designs available in the new Juliette range from Alpha Rail complement both contemporary and more classic house and apartment styles. With more people living in three storey townhouses and apartments than ever before, Juliette balconies are also becoming highly desirable as they enhance the living space and increase the perceived value of a development.

Phil Ball, Sales Director for Alpha Rail, explains: “There is lots of demand in the market for attractive and stylish Juliette balconies and based on the success of our original designs we responded by adding a number of exciting, contemporary new styles. We are expecting a great response from homeowners and developers who are looking to enhance their properties and make the most of their French doors.”

UK manufactured and produced from robust galvanised steel, the Juliette balconies are supplied powder coated in a full range of colours. The powder coating contains no solvent and so is therefore more environmentally friendly. All Juliette balconies from Alpha Rail come with a 10 year manufacturer’s guarantee.

The Alpha Rail Juliette range is produced to the highest quality standards and is available in five standard widths (approx 1250mm, 1550mm, 1850mm, 2150mm and 2450mm) and are 1100mm high, which complies with Building Regulations Part K2.

All these standard ranges are available within a 15 working day lead time, from receipt of order, with delivery direct to site. Bespoke designs are available on longer lead times.

Alpha Rail has over 20 years’ experience in manufacturing railings and gates and counts many housing associations, private developers and local authorities amongst its customers. The company has gained a reputation in the industry for the quality of its products, which are backed up by exceptional customer service.

For more information on bespoke architectural railings, contact Alpha Rail on 01623 750214 or visit the website www.alpharail.co.uk.

Press enquiries: Marina Wood, Dragonfly PR, Tel: 01709 300130 / Mobile 07720 509 374 or email: marina@dragonflypr.co.uk.

Alpha Rail Caught on Camera!

2009-09-09T06:26:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE: August 2009

Public space close to the Gate Studios development in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, will long serve as a reminder to its film-making past, thanks to an architectural sculpture manufactured by bespoke metalwork company Alpha Rail.

The development was the original location for Gate Studios, one of the earliest British film studios founded in the 1920s. The location produced a number of famous feature films, the best known being Odette with Anna Neagle and Trevor Howard.

This area is still renowned as the ‘Hollywood of England’, with nearby Elstree Studios producing Eastenders and Holby City as well as feature films such as Star Wars and Raiders of the Lost Ark.

On the site of the old Gate Studios, Taylor Wimpey has built a mixed use development of 133 houses and apartments, with a nearby area of public open space that they wanted to reflect the development’s film past.

Landscape architectural and sculptural design company Land & Sculpture Design Partnership had the vision to create huge 18ft metal cameras that would tower over users of the park, on a landscaped area that reflected an old film strip negative.

The company chose Alpha Rail to realise its vision as it knew that no project was too large – literally. Vanessa Hill, a skilled sculptor of metal, stone and wood, provided the specification and Alpha Rail manufactured the three huge film cameras at its factory in Nottinghamshire to meet the design brief.

Vanessa Hill of Land and Sculpture Design Partnership, explains: “The idea was to create a reminder to the area’s film past and keep it alive for generations to come. In this context, art has served to reinforce an appreciation of this area’s history and will come to mean a lot to residents living here in the future. As we have worked with Alpha Rail before, we know they had the capabilities to design assist on this project and produce the desired result. We wanted the cameras to be pointed in specific directions, with two cameras focused on the smaller camera, a bit like in a warm, friendly family group.”

Alpha Rail supplied the bespoke metalwork, which was galvanised and powder coated in black, to enhance longevity.

Phil Ball, Sales Director of Alpha Rail, explains: “This was a totally unique project but one that we were delighted to be involved with. It is always exciting to work with an architect – or a sculptor in this case – to create a work of art. The importance of sculptures like this cannot be underestimated in providing a focal point for a public space and raising awareness of the unique heritage of the area for years to come. It also shows just what can be achieved with partnership working, where our technical and manufacturing skills means we can help bring a project like this to life.”

Alpha Rail has over 25 years’ experience in urban regeneration, green space and park restoration. The company provides a bespoke service for architectural metalwork and has supplied many prestigious projects, including school grounds, parks and housing estates with new gates and railings.

For more information on bespoke architectural railings, contact Alpha Rail on 01623 750214 or visit the website www.alpharail.co.uk.

Press enquiries: Marina Wood/Tom Underwood, Dragonfly PR, Tel: 01709 300130 / Mobile 07720 509 374 or email: marina@dragonflypr.co.uk.

Landscape architect – Vanessa Hill – 01449 740272 lsdp@btinternet.com
Client Ian Conlan at Taylor Wimpey – 01277 236813 ian.conlan@taylorwimpey.com

A Friendly Welcome

2009-07-21T06:07:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our new website which we have re-designed to make it more user friendly and faster for customers/clients to find the products they are looking for. We trust you will find it easy to navigate and look forward to receiving any feedback or suggestions to further improve our customer service levels.

Over the next few months we will be extending our product range to offer a new range of 'off the shelf ' railings and gates specially designed for the residential market which will be available for purchase directly from our website. Also look out for new additions to our highly popular range of Juliette Balconies which will be unveiled in the Autumn of 2009.

Stay tuned for more news and updates shortly on our product ranges and latest project undertakings.

The Alpha Rail team.