If you’ve been following our blog recently here at Altitude Glass, you may already know why glass balustrades are rapidly becoming so popular across the UK. To summarise, they’re a particular favourite for modern buildings due to their sleek appearance and ability to create an open, airy feel. (That makes them a go-to choice for plenty of sustainable buildings too!)
So, if you’re considering them for your own space, that’s exactly where we can help here at Altitude Glass – we have extensive experience with glass balustrades, and we’ve used them to complete a wide variety of beautiful projects for domestic and commercial customers. Before you get started on the planning process in earnest though, there are a couple of things it’s worth considering first. Here are five of the most important!
First off, it’s always crucial to ensure the structural integrity and load-bearing capacity of glass balustrades. They must be able to withstand various forces, including wind pressure and potential impacts. Generally, it’s a good idea to consult with a qualified structural engineer, or one of our team here at Altitude Glass, to assess the load requirements based on the location and intended use of the balustrades.
What’s more, the type of glass (as well as the fixings and supports) must meet the necessary strength requirements. For example, glass balustrades on high-rise buildings will face different stress levels compared to those in a residential setting. Reinforced fittings and properly installed support systems are also critical to ensure long-term durability and compliance with safety standards. Once the glass is installed, it’s a good idea to create a schedule for regular inspections, which can help detect any issues early and prevent potential hazards.
The choice of glass type and quality plays a significant role in both safety and longevity. Toughened or laminated glass is often recommended for balustrades due to its increased strength and safety features (we supply both here at Altitude Glass).
Also known as tempered glass, toughened glass is heat-treated to enhance its strength. That design also means that in the event of breakage – which is not easy by any means – it shatters into small, blunt pieces instead of sharp shards. Laminated glass on the other hand consists of layers of glass and plastic, and remains intact even if shattered, providing an additional layer of safety. Both are equally viable choices – the best one for you will generally be affected by the setting, location and application of your balustrades.
Beyond these types, the thickness of the glass and its treatment, such as anti-scratch coatings, can also impact performance. If you need any specific advice, one of our team is always only too happy to provide it!
So, that’s some of the main practical elements covered. Now on to the more fun stuff!
When you’re planning the installation of your glass balustrades, you’ll want to start by considering how they’ll integrate with the overall design of the space. Glass balustrades offer a minimalist and contemporary look, and for maximum effect, you can even ensure that their design complements the building’s architecture and décor. The type of glass (clear, frosted, or coloured), the style of the fixings, and the overall configuration are all factors that you can choose to take into account.
The choice between frameless and framed designs affects not only the visual appeal but also the level of structural support provided. Frameless designs provide a modern, uninterrupted view, while framed options may offer added stability and design flexibility. What’s more, the integration of glass balustrades with other materials, such as wood or metal, can enhance the overall aesthetic and ensure that they harmoniously blend with the existing design elements.
Just with almost every other type of building modification, adhering to local building codes and regulations is a critical aspect of installing glass balustrades. Specific requirements regarding the height, strength, and spacing of balustrades are set to ensure safety. It’s generally a good idea to familiarise yourself with these regulations before beginning installation, even if only in passing. (However, you can count on us to be fully up to speed with them here at Altitude Glass, so we’ll always be able to fill in any gaps in your knowledge.)
In addition to height and load requirements, regulations may also dictate specific installation techniques and the types of fixings that can be used. Compliance with these standards is hugely important, as it helps to avoid the risk of requiring costly modifications or legal issues further down the line. It is also important to consider future inspections or maintenance requirements as part of the planning process. In fact, let’s move on to that now!
As we’ve touched on above, regular maintenance and cleaning are both essential for the longevity and appearance of glass balustrades. Glass can easily show smudges, fingerprints, and dust, so it’s important to clean them regularly to keep them looking their best.
We’ve previously published a fairly detailed guide on the best way to clean glass partitions, and the same broadly applies to glass balustrades as well, whether framed or frameless. The main thing is that using appropriate cleaning products and techniques is crucial to avoid damaging the glass or fixings. For instance, abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals can scratch or degrade the glass surface, reducing its clarity and longevity.
Aside from cleaning, it’s always wise to conduct periodic inspections to check for any signs of wear or damage, such as cracks or loose fittings. Promptly addressing any issues can prevent more serious problems and extend the lifespan of the balustrades. Employing professional cleaning services on a semi-regular basis may also help maintain a pristine appearance and ensure that all components are in good working order.
That’s all the essentials covered! As we’ve mentioned above, if you ever have any questions or need any clarification about glass balustrades or glass partitions, we’re always happy to help here at Altitude Glass. We now have around 20 years of experience to our name, so you can count on us to know every one of our products inside out, from the technical specifications right down to the design possibilities. Feel free to take a look at our case studies to see what we’ve achieved for other clients!
You can choose from toughened glass, acoustic glass, or a variety of other options. Find out more about our products and sectors here, or just give us a call on 01254 812112 to get a free quote today. We’re here to help!
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