Balustrades are used both inside and outside of buildings to protect and support stairways and balconies. Railings can, of course, be created from various practical and attractive materials other than glass. Modern style balcony glass railing designs have however gained significant popularity in recent years. Let’s jump on this detailed guide about the latest glass railing designs for balconies and other factors to consider.
Glass Railing Designs for a Balcony
Glass is perfect for implementation in contemporary interiors as it enhances the space and never blocks light. Look at these designs to boost the looks of your balcony through an attractive railing.
Aluminum Cladded Glass Railing
Balcony glass railings are often added as structural, architectural and design element of contemporary buildings and come usually framed with aluminum. Aluminum-cladded glass railings come in a formidable variety of attractive designs. In addition, adding a few LED strips to the structure will bring out its visual value.
Colorful Glass Panels with Wrought Iron
Those who’d like to integrate a bit of individuality and personal taste into the design of their home’s balcony, consider installing stained glass railings. Wrought iron posts and handrails give this sort of railing a touch of elevated class. They can be shaped to fit any preferences. If you want your balcony to stand out, stained glass railings are a terrific alternative.
Laminated Glass Railings
The sophisticated and modern appearance of laminated glass railings has boosted their popularity. These consist of two or more sheets of glass laminated together through an adhesive. These railings are built to last and are extremely strong and sturdy. Water and soap are all that are required for upkeep and cleaning, making them conveniently low-maintenance. The cost of labor to install laminated glass railings, however, is higher than that for ordinary glass.
Frosted Glass Railing for Enhanced Privacy
These days, it’s common to find balconies outfitted with frosted glass railings. These are attractive architectural elements that serve to conceal the view just enough, while still letting in some light and sunshine. If you’re looking for some extra personal space, these glass balcony railings are ideal!
Best Glass for Balcony Railings
Glass railings are usually made of two distinct varieties of glass:
- Annealed Glass
- Tempered Glass
In order to increase the productivity and safety of glass railings, tempered glass is the top choice. The surface compression of at least 10,000 psi is caused by the air-quench temperature, volume, and other factors. This is the method through which annealed glass is transformed into tempered glass which is four to five times stronger than its original state. When tempered glass breaks, it shatters into small, rounded chunks, making it a safer option.
Is Glass a Safe Option for a Balcony?
Yes! Despite common belief, tempered glass is not fragile. Annealed glass railings are manufactured and placed in accordance with modern building codes and safety standards. Glass banisters, stairs, and balustrades are extremely secure. The thick tempered glass used in making balustrades ensures that they will not break, even if they suffer a hit. You can use them to prevent yourself, young children, and pets from slipping or getting injured.
How Thick Should Balcony Glass Be?
Structural glass balustrades need a substantially tough glass panel. Typically, 6mm to 10mm glass should be used in balcony railing or balustrade systems. Even for single-family homes, structural systems that include a handrail must use toughened glass panels with a thickness of at least 15 millimeters. The sturdier the glass is, the safer you will be!
Cost of Glass Balcony Railing
Usually, you’ll deal with a price range somewhere from $230 to $400 per linear foot for a glass railing system. Prices will however vary based on the types of glass you choose. Glass railings can be expensive initially, but they end up costing less than other railing materials in the long run. This is due to its great durability, low maintenance requirements, and long lifespan.
Is Glass Railing Over-Priced?
No, this is because it may cost you a little higher upfront but it’s worth it. Cable railings are less expensive to buy and install than glass railings, too. When it comes to long-term cost savings, cable railings are a smart investment due to their adaptability, and low maintenance requirements.
Presently, glass railings are most widely used in contemporary architecture. We can appreciate why this is becoming a popular option in place of traditional wooden railings and spindles. Glass banisters are aesthetically pleasing, functionally useful, and environmentally friendly.
Finally! Take Notice of the Height!
Glass balustrades installed indoors must be at least 0.9 m in height. The bare minimum for external applications including balconies, roof decks, and decking requires a height of 1.1m for a glass balustrade. When compared to commercial properties, residential properties have different sizing requirements.
So far, we have discussed almost every factor that you must consider before opting for your next glass railing project!
Published in: Home advice | Author: Rossitsa