Our beautiful frameless glass balustrade installed for our client in Buxted
Our Buxted client contacted us for help with their frameless balustrade project. The property was a self-build project by the husband and wife. Over 7 years the dream home was constructed by the husband and wife. The couple wanted a beautiful frameless balustrade to complement their stunning home (and hard work).
The property also had stunning views overlooking Buxted.
During our initial survey with the client, we noted their requirements which was to have a seamless modern balustrade solution. We proposed a track-based frameless glass balustrade solution. The balcony had not been constructed up to standard so we undertook additional metalwork as part of the project to ensure the structure was ready for our frameless glass balustrade system.
Composite decking and balcony facia covers
After the completion and installation of the frameless glass balustrade – the client was over the moon. We were then asked if we could help with the composite decking on the balcony and all the cladding covers. We were happy to help. We installed composite joists on the balcony flooring and used composite decking boards supplied by NeoTimber. The client chose the charcoal boards from the NeoTimber Advanced range.
All the balcony facia covers were manufactured by us using 2mm thick aluminium which was folded and sent off for powder coating.
The result is a stunning frameless glass balustrade for the client. We were just as happy as the client with our work.
Project details: Buxted Frameless Glass Balustrade
Glass Balustrade project specification:
- Project Location: Buxted, East Sussex
- Installed area: Walkout Balcony
- Fixing method: Track-based balustrade, installed to galvanised PFC
- Balustrade type: Fully frameless without a handrail
- Glass type: 21.5mm toughened and laminated standard clear glass
- Handrail: no handrail
- Decking: NeoTimber Advanced
- Facias: Bespoke powder-coated aluminium
What height does my glass balustrade need to be?
As per the requirements set out in part K building regulations, all domestic balustrades need to be 1100mm high (1.1M) externally and 900mm (0.9m) high internally. For staircases, this is 900mm above pitch line of the stairs. Download a copy of the latest part K building regulations.
Caution that small ledges and parapets can be deemed a step and the balustrade height may be taken from the height of the “step”
Do I need a handrail on my frameless glass balustrade?
We generally always recommended using a handrail on balconies but if the correct glass is used, a handrail can be optional. Generally, the glass must be of a suitable thickness and be toughened and laminated.
Do I need privacy glass for my balustrade project?
In certain situations, privacy glass may be required in order to obtain planning permission for your balcony. We advise that you talk to your local authority to find out if you will require privacy glass. Often, privacy glass may be required where your balcony has a view into your neighbor’s space.
What gaps are your allowed in a glass balustrade?
The maximum glass gaps allowed is anything less than 100mm. This is a Part K building regulations requirement. Check Part K building regulations for the latest balustrade requirements.
What is 316 grade stainless steel?
316 grade is the second-most common form of stainless steel. It has almost the same physical and mechanical properties as 304 stainless steel, and contains a similar material make-up. The key difference is that 316 stainless steel incorporates about 2 to 3 percent molybdenum. The addition increases corrosion resistance, particularly against chlorides and other industrial solvents.
316 stainless steel is commonly used in many industrial applications involving processing chemicals, as well as high-saline environments such as coastal regions and outdoor areas where de-icing salts are common. Due to its non-reactive qualities, 316 stainless steel is also used in the manufacture of medical surgical instruments.
Are you thinking about having a frameless glass balustrade system installed?
Our Buxted-based client engaged us early so we were able to advise and assist.
There are always important considerations to be made before choosing your balustrade system. These are some of the most common considerations for a frameless glass balustrade
- What will the frameless balustrade fix to?
This is a very important consideration as the balustrade can only be as strong as what there is to fix. In the above project, the client was advised by their builders during the construction stage to have structural members inserted within the roof to support the frameless balustrade track.
- How will you weather the glass balustrade system?
This again is a very important consideration – we always recommend engaging a professional roofer for the weather in all balustrades systems. This way a warranty can be provided or preserved with the current flat roof system.
- Should I have a handrail for my frameless glass balustrade system?
We usually recommend a handrail for any glass balustrade system as a handrail generally provides additional structural support and can be functional. It can be used to lean on and can protect the top edge of the glass panel. There are cases were client which to maintain the open views and want a seamless minimal balustrade system.
