4 Top Tips For Selecting Glass Balustrades For Your Home

Glass balustrades are a sleek and stylish way to upgrade your home. They can help to open up smaller spaces and create a light and airy feel. They can be installed indoors for stair bannisters and mezzanine floors, and also used outdoors for balconies, patios, poolsides, and more. Here are some points to consider when selecting the right product for your home.

What will be the purpose of the balustrade?

Consider the purpose of the glass balustrade. Is it for safety, such as to provide a barrier for an upstairs balcony, or more of an integral design feature to add a sense of light and space to a property? This will influence the thickness and toughness of the glass that you need.

Other considerations may be the level of privacy you want the glass to provide. If it’s for a balcony or mezzanine floor, you may want to consider frosted glass or specially tinted privacy glass that provides one way vision. 

Framed or frameless?

Frameless glass balustrades are fixed into place with a deep u channel and require no additional supports. They create an uninterrupted transparent view, and so are a popular choice for balconies, patios, and other outdoor spaces. The frameless look is sleek and contemporary, and can be paired with handrail if needed for extra visibility and safety.

Framed glass balustrades may suit a more classic interior, because they can be combined with natural wood posts and rails to create a pleasing blend of old and new.  You may want to add extra decorative accessories such as ornate feet or steel studs, and features such as rounded edges rather than right angles to enhance the effect.

Select the right fittings and accessories

The fittings for your glass balustrade will depend on whether you wish to install framed, semi-framed or frameless balustrades. The framed and semi-framed versions will need to be secured with stainless steel clamps. They can be fitted with handrails for extra safety and visibility.

When choosing the fittings, consider the materials to ensure that it blends in well with the surroundings. For example, brass or bronze might be suitable for an older style property with a classic interior design scheme. Aluminium fittings with a brushed or matte finish can bring a more contemporary look to a modern interior.

Choose your supplier and fitter carefully

Safety is paramount when installing any glass features. You should research products thoroughly and ensure that they meet the relevant safety standards for toughened and laminated glass. Unless you have special expertise, it’s best to hire a professional to install the balustrades so you can be assured about safety and quality standards.