Balustrades are a form of fencing that are used for stairs or balconies. They add an extra touch of charm to the stairs, but aside from the aesthetic aspect, they are also important for safety. There are different types of balustrades which are made from different materials. When adding balustrades to your home, it is very important to choose the style and material for balustrades that complement the architectural style of your home.
In this article, we will look at the best materials that are used for balustrades and we will compare and contrast them. Also, if you are looking for glass balustrades in London, you can trust Antique Glass as your local glass shop for providing high quality balustrades.
What are balustrades?
Balustrades are arranged in a line of repeating balusters or columns. they are arranged in line with small posts that connects the top of the rail in a railing. Common examples of balustrades are stair cases of buildings, terraces and porches.
Balustrades improve the beauty of your house or your office and the entire look of your surroundings. They also add safety to your stairs and balconies.
There are different types of balustrades based on the material they are made from. So you have a variety of choices and looks.
Why do I need balustrades?
Balustrade laws differ depending on the height of the balcony or deck above the ground.
When the difference in height from a balcony or deck to the ground or another lower level is a metre or more, a balustrade of at least a metre high is required.
For decks more than a metre above the ground, openings in balustrades also cannot be greater than 125 mm.
For decks more than four metres above the ground, balustrades can’t have any climbable elements (such as horizontal rails) located between 150 and 760 mm from the ground.
Balustrades must also be constructed so they can resist forces that might be placed upon them, including strong winds and people leaning against them.
Types of balustrades
In the market there are various types of balustrades. They are available in a wide range and made in various types of materials. Balustrades differ in the materials from which they are made from, and there are obviously different pros and cons for each. Some of the more common types of balustrades are:
Glass balustrades
Glass Balustrade adds more beauty to your house, porch or staircase for which you are using. Glass balustrades are perfect for balconies and around the pool as they provide all the safety features that you need without taking away your view. They also make the space look more spacious.
They are also relatively safe as they are made from toughened glass and children can’t climb on them.
Glass balustrades are constructed from a series of glass panels that are semi-framed, fully framed or frameless. The glass can be clear, semi-transparent, etched, frosted or tinted to the color of your choice. Glass panels can also be framed with aluminium or stainless steel and may be supported by wooden materials as well.
Glass balustrades are also pretty low maintenance, but the glass will need to be cleaned regularly as dirt shows quickly especially when used outside and around the pool.
Aluminium balustrades
One of the other types of balustrades are made from aluminium.
For a cost effective option, aluminium balustrades are a great option. These are extremely durable (they won’t rust), very low maintenance and can be used inside or outside your home or office.
Suitable for all weather conditions, powder coating offers protection for aluminum balustrades and creates a beautiful shine. The process of powder coating also means they’re available in a wide range of colors.
Strand wire balustrades
If you are looking for a contemporary look, strand wires are types of balustrades suitable for you. They are easy to maintain (much like aluminium), however the regulations are quite strict in terms of the amount of wire that’s required for safety, so they can look very busy.
Strand wire can be used on stairs and balconies and balustrades often come with a choice of handrails, however as they’re a premium product they’re often more expensive than glass or aluminium balustrades.
Wrought iron balustrades
Wrought iron balustrades are another stylish types of balustrades that can be used for home or office. They are a way of providing security to a deck or balcony and can be finished in a variety of colors, and can also be customized as well.
Wrought iron is a strong and robust material, and unlike aluminium and timber that can rot and rust, wrought iron can stand up to all types of weather conditions.
Another great point of wrought iron is that it is also relatively maintenance free, unlike glass for example, that requires constant cleaning, however these types of balustrades must be sealed and coated regularly in order to deter rust.
Wooden balustrades
Wooden balustrades are one of the popular types of balustrades as they bring a sense of warmth and a natural feel to your home.
They are also warm to the touch, in comparison with steel or glass balustrades. Wooden balustrades are well suited to more traditionally styled homes and the indoors, but can be used outdoors if treated and maintained correctly.
When choosing wooden balustrades it is important to maintain them correctly to avoid problems such as warping or termites. For outdoors wooden rails must be sealed but for indoors one can simply oil them and wipe them down with a cloth.
Stainless steel balustrades
Stainless steel balustrades are a modern option suitable for a home with a minimalistic look. They are simple, but look luxurious, and can match with most styles and materials used in your home.
Stainless steel balustrades are strong and durable in structure and require little maintenance. Unlike other materials that need regular work, stainless steel does not need to be painted, polished, powder-coated or treated in any way.
Stainless steel does not absorb substances making it the most hygienic option as it is not easily contaminated. Also, stainless steel is environmentally friendly as it does not rust. This also means that it will not need sanding and painting on a regular basis.
At AntiqueGlass, we offer a variety of glass balustrades that cover a wide range of styles.
- Glass Balcony Systems
- Bolted Glass Balustrade Systems
- Glass Balustrade Clamping Systems
- Channel Set Glass Balustrade Systems
- Curved Glass Balustrade Systems for Spiral Staircases
- External Glass Balustrade Systems
- Post and Clamp Glass Balustrade Systems
- Post and Rail Glass Balustrade Systems
- Resin Set Glass Balustrades
Need to add the finishing touch to your home or office with some balustrades? Contact our experts at AntiqueGlass Ltd. today.
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