The Client Challenge and Project Breif:
Steve from Billericay, Essex contacted me in April for the supply and install of a new glass balustrade for his patio area. This was a recommendation from a past customer of mine. Recently he had a new porcelain tiled patio laid and was looking for a bespoke glass balustrade to be installed as there is a drop at the end of the patio. He has a couple of young grandchildren so needed a protective barrier to prevent the young grandchildren from falling off the edge patio. So not only does the free floating glass balustrade look stylish and modern looking, it also serves an important purpose to prevent young children from falling.
Steve wanted less steelwork and more glass. So I advised the best option would be to go for a free floating glass balustrade system. Which is basically a glass balustrade with post only and no handrail on top. As always I advise with this glass balustrade system, is to use 13.5mm toughened laminated glass panels. This thickness of glass gives you more protection in strength than a standard 10mm toughened glass panel.
As with all porcelain tiled patios, we have to make sure that when drilling out the holes in tiles for the glass balustrade fixings you have to use a special diamond drill bit and be extremely careful not to crack the tiles when drilling through them.
As per my method of the installation process. First day on site is to fit all the Stainless steel posts, which is 316 grade stainless steel. This grade is for outside use and prevents any rusting. Once all posts are in, I then measure up for the glass panels. Normally it takes around three weeks for the glass panels to be manufactured. Once ready, then a return visit to install all the glass panels to complete the glass balustrade to a high standard that the client is extremely pleased with.
The Visage Glass & Steel Solution:
At Visage glass and steel we offer a wide range of bespoke glass balustrades. Ranging from the free floating glass balustrade system, which is the same glass balustrade system used on this project in Billericay, Essex. This system is perfect when you don’t require much Stainless steel to be used and gives you better uninterrupted views. With this glass balustrade system I always advise using 13.5mm toughened laminated for extra security as there is no handrail.
Another glass balustrade system that is very popular is the post and rail system, which consist of stainless steel posts and a stainless steel handrail and usmng 10mm clear toughened glass panels.
Another popular option is the frameless glass balustrade system, where you have an aluminium base channel fixed to the floor, then install either 17.5mm or 21.5mm toughened laminated glass panels. This would be the best option for complete uninterrupted views as there is no steelwork. But this glass balustrade system can only be fixed onto either a solid concrete base or steel beam due to the weight of the glass.
Client Testimonial
I was extremely pleased with my glass balustrade, Joe was professional and all the work was finished to a very high standard. Also the price of my glass balustrade was very competitive and would highly recommend Visage glass and steel to anyone that requires a new bespoke glass balustrade for their patio area
Location:
Billericay, Essex
Date:
June 2020
Services:
- Glass Balustrades
