Parapet vs. Railing — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 3, 2024
Parapets are protective walls at the edge of roofs or balconies, primarily for safety, whereas railings are open barriers installed alongside stairs or decks.
Difference Between Parapet and Railing
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A parapet is a low wall or barrier that extends above the roofline or edge of a structure, designed to protect people from falling. On the other hand, a railing is a barrier consisting of rails supported by posts, primarily used to provide support and prevent falls, especially along stairs and platforms.
Parapets are integral to the architecture of buildings, often extending the aesthetic of the façade. Whereas railings are more functional in design and can be made from various materials like wood, metal, or glass to match or complement their surroundings.
Historically, parapets were used in fortifications to shield defenders from enemy fire. Railings, on the other hand, have always been utilitarian, serving to safeguard individuals on stairways, decks, and around open areas.
Regulations for parapets emphasize height and structural integrity to prevent accidents and enhance the building's safety profile. Conversely, railings are subject to building codes that specify height, spacing, and load-bearing capacity to ensure they effectively prevent falls.
Maintenance considerations for parapets include checking structural stability and integrity due to their exposure to weather elements. Railings, depending on the material, may require regular maintenance such as painting, rust treatment, or tightening of components to ensure safety and durability.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A protective wall at edge of a roof.
A barrier installed alongside stairs.
Primary Function
Safety and aesthetics.
Safety and support.
Installation Location
Roofs, balconies.
Stairs, decks, balconies.
Materials Used
Stone, brick, concrete.
Wood, metal, glass.
Historical Use
Fortification in warfare.
Practical use in architecture.
Compare with Definitions
Parapet
A fortification feature for defense purposes.
Soldiers ducked behind the parapet to avoid enemy fire.
Railing
A support structure along stairs or ramps.
The railing on the ramp helps those with disabilities safely navigate it.
Parapet
An architectural element for aesthetic enhancement.
The new office building features a glass parapet for a modern look.
Railing
A series of bars fixed together to form a protective barrier.
The old staircase was fitted with a new wooden railing for safety.
Parapet
A barrier to prevent water penetration on flat roofs.
The parapet around the flat roof directs water towards the drainage system.
Railing
Subject to regular maintenance to ensure safety.
The metal railings require rust-proofing to maintain their integrity.
Parapet
A protective barrier extending above a roof or balcony.
The ancient castle had a stone parapet along its perimeter.
Railing
An essential element in building safety codes.
Building codes dictate the minimum height for railings on balconies.
Parapet
A safety feature in modern buildings.
Regulations require a parapet for any rooftop accessible to the public.
Railing
Often made from materials like metal or glass.
The modern home features sleek glass railings on its decks.
Parapet
A parapet is a barrier that is an extension of the wall at the edge of a roof, terrace, balcony, walkway or other structure. The word comes ultimately from the Italian parapetto (parare 'to cover/defend' and petto 'chest/breast').
Railing
A fence or barrier made of rails
Wrought-iron railings
Parapet
A low protective wall or railing along the edge of a raised structure such as a roof or balcony.
Railing
A structure made of a rail, often connecting a series of upright members, that is used as a guard or barrier or for support, as on a balcony or next to a staircase.
Parapet
An earthen or stone embankment protecting soldiers from enemy fire.
Railing
The rail of such a structure.
Parapet
A low protective wall.
Railing
Rails considered as a group.
Parapet
Part of a perimeter that extends above the roof.
Railing
A fence or barrier consisting of one or more horizontal rails and vertical supports.
During the war, everyone's railings were taken away to make bombers.
Parapet
(military) A fortification consisting of a wall.
Railing
Present participle of rail
Parapet
A low wall, especially one serving to protect the edge of a platform, roof, bridge, or the like.
Railing
Expressing reproach; insulting.
Angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them.
Parapet
A wall, rampart, or elevation of earth, for covering soldiers from an enemy's fire; a breastwork. See Illust. of Casemate.
Railing
A barrier made of a rail or of rails, together with vertical supports. The typical railing in the interior of structures or on porches has a horizontal rail near waist height, and multiple vertical supports. Its function is usually to provide a safety barrier at the edge of a verticle drop to prevent falls.
Parapet
A low wall along the edge of a roof or balcony
Railing
Rails in general; also, material for making rails.
Parapet
Fortification consisting of a low wall
Railing
A barrier consisting of a horizontal bar and supports
Railing
Material for making rails or rails collectively
Common Curiosities
Are there specific building codes for parapets?
Yes, building codes often specify the required height and structural integrity of parapets.
What is the main purpose of a parapet?
To provide safety by preventing falls and enhancing the building’s aesthetic appeal.
What materials are commonly used to construct parapets?
Stone, brick, and concrete are commonly used materials.
Why are railings important in architecture?
Railings are crucial for safety, preventing falls and providing support.
How do parapets differ from balconies?
Parapets are protective barriers at the edge of a roof or balcony, primarily for safety and are not usable space, whereas balconies are platforms extending from the wall of a building with their own support, usable as outdoor areas.
Is it expensive to install a parapet?
The cost can vary widely depending on materials and design complexity, but generally, integrating a parapet can be moderately expensive due to structural requirements.
Can parapets be decorative?
Yes, many parapets are designed to complement the architectural style of buildings.
Are parapets required on all types of buildings?
Not on all buildings, but they are required where building codes dictate safety measures for flat roofs or accessible roof areas.
How does a parapet contribute to building safety?
By preventing falls and sometimes by acting as a fire barrier.
What materials are commonly used for railings?
Railings are made from wood, metal, glass, or composite materials.
Do parapets affect the drainage system on roofs?
Yes, parapets can influence roof drainage by containing and directing water to designated drainage points.
How high should a railing be according to safety standards?
Safety standards typically require railings to be at least 36 inches high on residential properties.
Do railings need regular maintenance?
Yes, especially those made from materials like wood or metal, to ensure their durability and safety.
What are the common design styles for parapets?
Parapets can range from plain, functional designs to elaborate, decorative styles that match or enhance the building's architecture.
What are the safety implications of not having railings?
Lack of railings can lead to severe safety hazards, particularly falls, which can be fatal or cause serious injuries.
What types of buildings require railings?
Buildings with stairs, balconies, decks, and any elevated areas accessible to people typically require railings for safety.
How do railing designs impact building aesthetics?
Railing designs can significantly enhance building aesthetics, offering everything from minimalist to intricate patterns that complement architectural styles.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
