Glass balustrades are an increasingly popular choice for commercial buildings, providing a modern and sophisticated aesthetic. They also have significant safety features, and if correctly installed they are low-maintenance and highly durable. Here’s a look at the key benefits of glass balustrades for offices and other commercial buildings.
Safety benefits of glass balustrades
A frequently asked question is “How safe are glass balustrades?”, and the answer is that they are very safe provided the right type of glass and the correct installation techniques are used. Professional installation is highly recommended to ensure that the balustrades comply with building regulations and the glass meets the required safety standards.
Strength and durability
The glass used for balustrades and all other types of architectural glazing will always be toughened (also known as tempered glass) or laminated (sometimes called safety glass). Sometimes, the glass will be both toughened and laminated.
Toughened glass is subject to intense heat and rapid cooling during the manufacturing process, which makes it extremely hard and difficult to break. In the rare event that it does break, it will form rounded pebbles rather than dangerous shards, reducing the risk of cuts and lacerations.
If the balustrade is to protect building users from falls from height, the building regulations may specify that the glass is laminated. This is glass with an inner UVB layer that holds the panes together even if the glass breaks, so the barrier is still strong enough to prevent a fall.
Laminated glass is usually thicker than toughened glass due to the multiple layers required. Certain types of glass balustrade, such as frameless or semi-frameless, may require thicker tempered glass or laminated glass to comply with regulations.
High safety standards
Whether installed on mezzanine floors, staircases, or balconies, glass balustrades can withstand heavy impacts and provide robust protection against falls. They are designed to meet stringent regulations and standards and therefore are a highly effective safety feature.
Furthermore, the transparency of the glass allows clear unobstructed sightlines across the building, which can make security surveillance and emergency evacuation situations easier. To increase the visibility of the balustrades without obstructing the view and to provide extra support to users, handrails can be installed.
Ease of maintenance
Glass is a very low maintenance material, simply requiring a wipe down with water or mild detergent to remove smudges and fingerprints, and drying with a soft cloth every week or two. Unlike materials such as wood or metal, glass does not corrode or degrade in quality over time and does not need to be coated in paint or weatherproofing treatments.
Aesthetic benefits of glass balustrades
Contemporary and elegant style
Glass balustrades can instantly update the interior of a building with a modern and sleek design.
A range of design options
Balustrades come in a variety of styles and finishes, and can be customised to suit your needs and preferences. They can be fitted with frames and handrails to allow the integration of other materials such as wood or metal. This might be a preferred option if you have a more traditional style of building and blend the old and new.
Frameless or semi frameless balustrades offer a seamless integration with the interior or outside space of a building, opening up completely unobstructed views and providing a clean and modern aesthetic. They can be combined with glass staircases to complete the look.
Furthermore, the glass can be customised to suit your preferences, whether that’s ultra-clear low iron glass, frosted glass for balance of light and privacy, or coloured glass to complement the rest of your interior decor. The glass can also be finished with patterns or a specific design such as your company logo or corporate branding.
Enhancing natural light
A key advantage of glass balustrades is that they allow for the uninterrupted flow of light around the building. Exposure to natural light enhances our mood and sense of wellbeing, helping us to form more natural cycles of sleep and wakefulness.
This can lead to reduced stress and better mental health for employees, boosting productivity and reducing rates of sickness absence from work. Glass creates a bright and welcoming atmosphere for staff, clients and visitors alike, enhancing the image and reputation of the business and attracting and retaining the best employees.
