Guard rails, also known as railings or protective guarding, serve as essential boundary features designed to prevent or deter access to dangerous or restricted areas while allowing for visibility and light. Unlike traditional fences, guard rails provide a safer alternative with various design options.
Common horizontal shapes include flat, rounded edge, and tubular styles, while vertical railings around homes often feature tetraform spearheads or ball finials. In parks and gardens, decorative metal railings typically showcase intricate designs, such as swirls, leaves, and motifs, especially around gates, adding both safety and aesthetic appeal.