The Case for and Against Choosing Glass Balustrades

Posted Sunrock Balconies

So, you have a new home with a beautiful vista – congratulations! You may be considering some glass balustrading to make the most of it.

This could be an excellent choice, but as with any big decision, there are many factors to consider. Go into this decision with your eyes open by considering the pros and cons of Infinity glass balustrades.

 

Why you should choose glass balustrades for your project

 

A balcony made entirely of infinity glass is the perfect way to enjoy the landscape beyond your back door. Whether you look onto the ocean, the forest, or the city, you would rather get a full view of the scenery instead of it being mostly obscured. It gives you a sense of space rather than confinement.

Balconies that don’t use glass create a barrier between the inside and the outside. Conversely, a glass balustrade dissolves the barrier without losing it completely, giving the illusion of a large open space, looking out.

A glass balustrade could add value of your property. Glass balconies offer a more luxurious and upmarket look giving it increased curb appeal too.

If you are landscaping your property, you will roundly benefit from having a glass balustrade. For one thing, you will not need to consider the aesthetic implications of a traditional design that may impact your landscaping decisions. Instead, your glass balcony will complement any creative vision. You can enjoy your creation from the inside.

 

Will your property suit a glass balcony?

 

Traditionally glass balconies are deemed to be a luxurious and high end option. However, the cost of raw materials and production have come down and installing an infinity glass balcony will suit even with the most modest budget.

 

Glass balustrading may not suit every home. As it brings more contemporary look, it tends to suit modern, linear aesthetics, not traditional buildings and stonework. However, designers today tend to blend the old with the new, and in many cases, it works extremely well.

 

At Sunrock Balconies we create outdoor living rooms using infinity glass designed to your specifications.  We offer a complete end to end service from design to quotation to full installation for both residential and commercial customers.  We can also consult with your architect, contractors or tradesmen to get the best results for your balcony project.

 

Get in touch today and we will walk you through our hassle-free process. Why not call us on 01204 668 207 or send a message to info@sunrockbalconies.co.uk.  Further information about our full service range can be found on our website.

Are Glass Balustrades Safe?

Posted Sunrock Balconies

When it comes to design elements of your home, especially when it comes to balconies, architects and designers will look at using glass balustrades as a modern designer look and feature for your home. However, many people shy away from this because they have a big fear inside them when it comes to glass. The main concern being safety.

 

It is understandable, after all, your perception of glass is that it is fragile and could break easily. However, glass balustrades are extremely heavy duty and if bought from a reputable provider, then you can put your mind at ease. You will get the designer look you want, and the safety which is needed for the area to be utilised by everyone. However, you shouldn’t just take our word for it, here is a little more insight into why glass balustrades are safe and also how purchasing through a reputable company can give you the extra peace of mind you need.

 

Glass balustrades must be made with safety glass

 

 

There are UK guidelines in place that specify that glass balustrades must be made using safety glass and there are two types of glass that can be used. Tempered glass and laminated glass.

 

Tempered or toughened glass

 

Toughened or tempered glass means that this glass itself is heated to around 700°C and then is cooled quickly, which is known as quenching. The quenching process creates a strong layer on both sides of the glass that locks tension inside. This means that because of this process, tempered glass is four times stronger to impact than regular glass. If it does break, it doesn’t break into large shards like most glass will do, it shatters into small pieces which makes it less dangerous and also easy to dispose of.

 

Laminated glass

 

Laminated glass is a bit different. It is made by sandwiching a layer of resin or plastic membrane between two toughened glass panels. Should one of the glass panels break, the membrane then works as a “safety net” and protects the second panel of glass.

 

It isn’t just about the glass itself 

 

You also need to take into account that not only is glass part of the glass balustrades option, but you also need to consider the framing and handles. This is when the added extra security can come into play by using specific stainless steel marine grade uprights, fixtures and fittings as well as handrails and frames.

 

But what about guarantees?

 

Using glass with metal framing may mean you have the concerns about the longevity of the product. Sunrock Balconies have over a decade of experience and know exactly what it takes to give you the look, security and safety measures you are looking for. Indeed, all Sunrock Balconies, Balustrades and Juliet Balconies are designed, built and installed to pass UK Building Control regulations.

 

At Sunrock Balconies we create outdoor living rooms using infinity glass designed to your specifications.  We offer a complete end to end service from design to quotation to full installation for both residential and commercial customers.  We can also consult with your architect, contractors or tradesmen to get the best results for your balcony project.

 

Get in touch today and we will walk you through our hassle-free process. Why not call us on 01204 668 207 or send a message to info@sunrockbalconies.co.uk.  Further information about our full service range can be found on our website.