Are Glass Balustrades Safe?
Glass balustrades are becoming more and more popular in modern buildings, as they add a sleek, contemporary finish that is not only visually pleasing but also helps to open up the space. However, despite their popularity, many people are still concerned about the safety of these systems.
Fortunately, modern technology has made glass a very safe option indeed. As long as the correct thickness of tempered safety glass is used, a glass balustrade will be very hard to break, and even if it does happen, it won’t shatter into dangerous sharp shards.
As well as being strong, glass is also easy to install in comparison glass balustrades with traditional bannisters. This is because it comes in fewer, larger pieces which means that it is quicker and easier for professionals to handle and fit. This is good news for both the installer and the client as it reduces installation time and costs.
There are a number of different options for the style of glass that can be used in a glass balustrade, from fully framed to frameless, frosted and patterned. This allows you to tailor the design of your glass railings to suit your style and décor. They are also a great option for balconies and decking areas as they allow light to flow freely, which cuts down on the need for artificial lighting and gives your building a bright, airy feel.
One of the biggest reasons for their popularity is that they offer a clear view, which allows you to enjoy the beauty of your surrounding surroundings. This is particularly important on a balcony, as it creates the illusion of more space and makes the area feel bigger. The use of glass also allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship of your staircase or balcony, as it doesn’t hide the materials beneath it.
Unlike many other materials, glass ages very slowly and maintains its durability over time. This is why it is often a more cost effective choice than metal or wood, especially in the longer term. This is due to the fact that there is no need for periodic painting or re-staining, as with some other materials.
There is no minimum height requirement for a glass balustrading, but it is worth noting that there are load requirements that the system needs to be able to withstand. These load requirements are based on line load, head load and the loading on the infill. IQ’s standard structural glass specification complies with all residential regulations and load requirements (Building Occupancy Class 1 and 2), but for commercial projects or other projects where a higher level of strength is required IQ can provide a stronger base fixing system and structural glass that can withstand up to 3 kN/m.
For any questions about your project, please get in touch with our team of experts who will be happy to help. They can guide you through the design process and ensure that your new glass railings will meet all the necessary standards for safety, strength and aesthetics.