Glass Balustrade – See the Light

Glass balustrades are an elegant and modern addition to any interior or exterior space. They provide a sleek, unobtrusive design while offering safety and security. These balustrades are made of tempered glass, which is a type of glass that has been heat-treated to increase its strength and durability.

This makes them a perfect option for high-traffic areas such as staircases, balconies, and decks. They can also be used in commercial and residential settings, both indoors and outdoors. In this article, we will explore the different types of glass balustrades, their benefits, and how to properly install and maintain them.

When specifying a commercial glass balustrade, there are several factors to consider:

1. Safety: Ensure that the glass balustrade meets local building codes and safety regulations. This includes ensuring that the balustrade is able to withstand a certain amount of weight and impact.
2. Durability: Choose a glass balustrade that is made of tempered or laminated glass, which is more resistant to scratches and breakage.
3. Design: Consider the design of the glass balustrade, including the type of hardware and framing used. This will affect the overall aesthetic of the space and should complement the existing architecture.
4. Maintenance: Consider the ease of maintenance for the balustrade. Glass balustrades require regular cleaning and should be easy to access for cleaning and maintenance.
5. Cost: Balancing cost and quality is important. Research different suppliers and materials to find the best balance of cost and durability.
6. Installation: Make sure to use a professional installer to ensure that the balustrade is properly installed and meets safety standards.
7. Lighting: Consider the lighting in the space and how the glass balustrade will affect it. This could include the use of backlit glass or frosted glass to create a specific ambiance.
8. Privacy: If privacy is a concern, consider using frosted, etched, or textured glass or installing the balustrade in a specific location.

The Illusion of Space

Glass balustrades are transparent, therefore objects the other side of the structures are usually quite clearly visible, depending on the finish and thickness of the glass. This can help glass balustrades to create an illusion space, as well as creating an open, fresh and expansive environment.

Bright Idea

Because of the transparent nature of the structures, glass balustrades do not block light, as some materials do. In fact, glass readily allows light through. In the context of a glass balustrade, this is a factor that can help to create a bright and airy atmosphere, in addition to a sleek, modern look.

Clean Easy

Glass is a smooth material and, as such, can be extremely easy to keep clean. In the event that the glass does become dirty, often all that is required to restore it to a clean state is water and a soft cloth. What’s more, the material doesn’t stain, while minor aesthetic blemishes, such as scratches, can often be smoothed out with polishing.

Long Term Solution

In the past, glass may have had a reputation for being somewhat flimsy, lightweight and fragile. However, modern commercial glass could not be further removed from this outmoded stereotype. Glass balustrades are both strong and durable, with today’s technology allowing for thick, tempered glass to be created. Glass does not rust and is extremely resistant against other forms of corrosion and pest infestations. These factors combine to ensure that balustrades made from glass provide a long term solution.

Wrightfield

Wrightfield is a specialist in balustrades. We design, manufacture and install a range of balustrades, including those made from glass.

Glass Balustrade – Find Out More

Specifying glass balustrades for commercial buildings requires careful consideration of several factors, including safety, durability, design, maintenance, cost, installation, lighting, and privacy.

By taking these factors into account, architects and designers can ensure that the glass balustrade chosen is not only functional and safe, but also complements the overall aesthetic of the space. It is also important to work with a professional installer to ensure that the balustrade is properly installed and meets safety standards.

With the right glass balustrade, commercial buildings can achieve a sleek and modern look while also providing safety and security for occupants.

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