Frameless Glass Balustrade
In this project, the client wanted a frameless glass balustrade to protect the edges of their balcony. Top mount Easy Adjust channel was used, and then the decking was installed so as to run flush with the top of the channel. This ensures that the glass has a truly ‘frameless’ look. With views like this out across the Devon countryside, you can see why a channel and glass was the preferred option for the balustrade!
Easy Adjust channel has fixing points at 200mm centres, and we recommend that you use all of these when fixing the channel down. Knowing your substrate is key to effectively planning your balustrade. In this project the actual balcony has a steel frame, so there is a nice strong frame to fix to. You’ve heard the expression that a balustrade is only as strong as its substrate? We always say it because its always true!
Do I need a handrail?
Handrails aren’t a necessity with a frameless glass balustrade, so it is very much down to you. There is always a slight flex (often referred to as deflection) in the glass within the channel – whilst this is pretty minimal at the base, it is slightly more noticeable at the top of the panel, and the taller the glass, the more noticeable the effect. The glass is by no means going to come out of the channel, but it may feel slightly disconcerting, to some people, for the panel to move slightly when you lean against it. Having a handrail does offer a bit more support and rigidity, but the extra strength is largely imagined. Psychologically, leaning against a handrail rather than a panel of glass, feels safer, and for some, also more comfortable! So the answer is no, you don’t need a handrail on a channel and glass balustrade. It is a cosmetic decision based on your preference for your project.
The reason that handrails aren’t essential with a channel and glass balustrade is that toughened and laminated glass must be used. The interlayer acts as a bonder, so in the unlikely event that one of the panels does break, the fragments are held together by the interlayer. This means that there is still an effective barrier, and the edge is protected. This is important as the primary function of a balustrade is to form a protective barrier. There are different thicknesses of glass necessary for different applications. Its important that you have the right type of glass, but this can be a bit of a minefield. Give us a call and we can guide you through your options.
Do you have questions about balustrading? Or a project coming up involving a balustrade? Give us a call our technical support team will be happy to discuss your project.
03300 414 881 | sales@whitemetal.co.uk
We’re on hand to offer any technical advice you may need!
Another shining example of the fact that: Our products are not just part numbers!
They are quality solutions designed by caring technicians with on-site experience and technical knowledge.
