What Glass Type Is Needed for My Balustrade?

Choosing the right type of glass for your balustrade is essential for safety, durability, and meeting building regulations. Here’s a guide to help you understand the options and make an informed decision.

Understanding Glass Thickness for Different Systems

The table below (to be inserted) outlines the recommended glass thickness for each of our balustrade systems, based on achieving the desired safety ratings. Be sure to consult this guide to select the correct glass for your project.

Do You Need Laminated Glass?

If your balustrade does not have a fixed handrail or cap rail, we recommend using laminated glass. In some cases, this is a requirement from building inspectors, so it’s best to check with your local authority before ordering.

What Is Toughened Safety Glass?

• Description: Toughened safety glass is a single, monolithic glass panel available in thicknesses of 10mm, 12mm, 15mm, and 19mm.
• Manufacturing Process: This glass is heated to around 650°C in a furnace and then rapidly cooled. This process increases the structural durability, making it approximately five times stronger than standard glass.
• Safety Feature: If broken, toughened glass shatters into small, blunt fragments rather than sharp, dangerous shards, significantly reducing the risk of injury.

What Is Toughened Laminated Glass?

• Description: Toughened laminated glass consists of two panels of toughened glass bonded together with a rubber interlayer. It is available in thicknesses of 13.5mm, 17.5mm, and 21.5mm.
• Key Benefit: The laminated design keeps the glass in place if it breaks, maintaining a barrier and providing extra safety for your balustrade. Importantly, the transparency of the glass remains unaffected.

Why Choose Laminated Glass for Certain Installations?

Laminated glass is particularly beneficial for installations without a handrail, as it adds an extra layer of safety. Even if the glass breaks, the interlayer ensures that the panel stays intact, preventing dangerous gaps and maintaining the integrity of the balustrade.

Check with Your Local Inspector

Before placing an order for your glass panels, always confirm with your local building inspector to ensure your choice meets the necessary safety requirements for your specific project.