How to Transform your Staircase

Posted Sunrock Balconies

In many homes, the staircase is the first thing visitors notice when they enter the front door.

However, despite being a prominent feature, most homeowners neglect the staircase aside from the standard dusting and vacuum.

Staircases are one of the key communal areas of any property with significant and constant use. So, if that’s the case, why not look to create a stunning feature of it? Not only will it be more appealing it will add value, along with a luxurious modern look, adding a wow factor in your home! Here’s how you can do it:

 

Experiment with Colour

 

By experimenting with paint, you can personalise your stairs and bring about a wonderful transformation. You may decide to paint the entire staircase or focus on select parts like the spindles. For a professional looking finish, you should ensure that all the surfaces are clean before painting. Have the old paint and varnish removed before the application of the new decoration.

You can create space and light by using different paint, textures, colours, and shades. Using contrasting shades for the treads and the risers such as a lighter colour on the riser and a darker colour on the tread will create a great look.

 

Be Creative with Carpeting

 

Attractive carpets can work wonders for a tired staircase. Carpeting may be the ideal option for staircases made from MDF, plywood, or concrete. Available in a wide range of colours, designs and textures it means you can be creative!

To add more style, if your staircase is still in good condition, you could carpet the centre of the stairs and paint or vanish the visible areas of the tread.

 

Use Lighting

 

You can give your stairs a new look by installing lighting. Illuminating the staircase will not just create the necessary light, but it will also bring out a stunning effect. You can choose from various staircase lighting options:

  • Linear step lights
  • Illuminated handrails
  • Tread lights
  • Backlighting
  • Up-down lights
  • Hidden lights

 

Install Infinity Glass Balustrades

 

 

Transform your staircase by installing infinity glass balustrades. In commercial and domestic settings, glass balustrades add a touch of class and luxury to any staircase. They allow light to flow freely and create an illusion of space. Infinity glass is easy to clean, making it easy to work with.

The design of balustrades should be such that it discourages children from climbing on it. Some conventional staircases, especially those with wooden railings, do not comply with this requirement. A great solution to this is infinity glass balustrades. They not only add a modern twist but are also sturdy and safe. Any balustrade installed by Sunrock Balconies are designed, built and installed to pass UK Building Control regulations.

 

How Sunrock Balconies can Transform your Staircase

 

 

At Sunrock Balconies we use infinity glass designed to the specification of the staircase in your property.  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 you.

Whether you seek to transform your interior or exterior staircase, or your terrace or balcony area, you can’t go wrong with infinity glass balustrades from Sunrock Balconies.

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.

 

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.

 

 

How to Avoid Coastal Corrosion

Posted Sunrock Balconies

Living by the coast is the dream of many. It could be the smell of the sea in the breeze, the sound of seagull cries, just being close to the beach or feeling the warm sand beneath your feet.

Undoubtedly it will not be the hassles of dealing with salt corrosion, excess moisture and rusting metal!

Coastal corrosion is a big problem for those who have homes that border the coast. With climate change and the constant onslaught of wind and rain, the right materials are a must.

 

Coastal Corrosion

Coastal corrosion can threaten your property’s integrity, and if your property is within 5km of the surf, you will notice it happening. If you’re further inland and 20km from the surf, you still may find that you are dealing with coastal corrosion. The continuous exposure to wind, high temperatures, and pollution can be the cause, though it’s much less severe than being close to the water.

 

Being close to saltwater spray is the main reason coastal corrosion occurs, as sea salt is a corrosive substance. It stays wet until the humidity levels are very low, so it erodes for longer and can cause damage.

 

If you have infinity glass balustrades on your balcony, you may notice that the stainless steel fixings are becoming discoloured which impairs the overall look. This brown discolouration, or tea staining does not affect the reliability or the durability of the structure, but it can look unsightly.

 

Deep grooves and metal folds on surfaces are more likely to erode, as these can trap salts in the small spaces. When the surface dries, the salts corrode the material faster. If you can ensure that the surfaces are smooth, less salt will be trapped in the surfaces

 

Marine grade stainless steel fixings

Marine grade stainless steel fixings are the answer. All of the Sunrock Balcony uprights, rails, and fixings used are made from marine grade 316 stainless steel because it has a high resistance to corrosion.

 

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.

 

 

How to Get the Most Out of Glass Balustrades

Posted Sunrock Balconies

Sipping cocktails from an outdoor pool, partying on a rooftop terrace, or simply relaxing in the garden with your family – a beautiful, uninterrupted view can transform each of these activities into something of an even higher class.

 

Big, bulky fencing and unsightly brick walls can have a disastrous effect on your attempt to achieve that all important uninterrupted view, but what is the alternative option that can allow you and your guests to fully appreciate the surroundings? You needn’t continue your search for even a second more, as glass balustrades are the ideal option to help you create the perfect open outdoor space that’s free of confines and borders.

 

Versatility of Glass

 

The versatility of glass balustrades make them a great fit for almost every location and style preference, adding quality and aesthetic value to any outdoor space within moments of installation. Designing the ideal entertainment spot that’s bound to wow your guests has never been so simple when you make the decision to incorporate glass balustrades, as they can be used for balconies and terraces that require a boundary for safety.

Not only will a glass balustrade keep you and your guests safe at such a height, it will also allow you all to see straight through for miles of uninterrupted views and endless sunlight. Utilising metal fencing or brickwork to create a border will knock several points off your properties aesthetic value, whilst also creating the atmosphere of a compact and claustrophobic space. You simply won’t be able to appreciate the surrounding areas of your property if you do not invest in the most suitable features, so don’t make the mistake of choosing the wrong materials for your needs.

Uninterrupted Views

 

Sunrock Balconies glass balustrades uninterrupted views

 

If you have a garden or piece of land that backs onto your property which maintains pleasing views, having to erect a tall wooden fence to identify the borders of your home can have a terrible effect on the way that you are able to appreciate your outdoor space. Again, the feeling of confinement can be amplified with the use of bulky materials, yet glass balustrades offer a whole new aesthetic. Opting to utilise glass balustrades in your garden will allow you and your family to appreciate Mother Nature to her full potential, as uninterrupted views are easy when there’s no fencing or wall standing in your bath. Summer sun soaked barbecues and outdoor get togethers have never been so enjoyable with the addition of a jaw dropping view, so don’t let such a selling point go to waste by investing in the wrong perimeters.

 

Poolside luxury

 

Even the luxury of an outdoor pool can be upgraded by the use of glass balustrades, as an unspoilt view appreciated from the water can be a whole new experience without the usual unsightly fencing or brickwork. Nothing says opulence quite like a rooftop infinity pool perfectly partnered with a set of glass balustrades.

 

There’s no time like the present to invest in your wildest dreams. 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 https://www.sunrockbalconies.co.uk/.

 

 

 

 

 

How to Enhance your Garden with Glass

Posted Sunrock Balconies

Sunrock Balconies - How to enhance your garden with glass

You can use a variety of materials to enhance your garden or outside space. Glass is one of the most versatile materials that you can use, both in practical and aesthetic ways.

It can create sleek lines and a contemporary feel, and it’s fantastic for increasing light and helping spaces to look bigger. If you want to use glass in your garden, you can install a range of features that have an impact on the look and feel of the space. Sunrock Balconies can offer you glass balconies and balustrades, as well as other glass products to help you make more of your garden.

Install a Water Feature

Water features are brilliant to add to any garden. They can help to create a more relaxing space, offering both a calming visual and sound. Glass water features are an excellent choice if you’re looking for a modern and sophisticated option for your garden. Consider a glass water wall, for example, where the water running down the wall can create rainbows as it catches the light. Or you might like a sphere of glass with water running down it, or perhaps a multifaceted glass water feature, where each piece feeds back into the others.

Have Glass Art or Sculptures

Art and sculptures are not just for inside your home. It’s also a good idea to add them to your garden, patio, terrace, or other outside space. There are many different things you can do with glass, both clear glass and coloured glass. Glass art outdoors often takes the form of sculpture, perhaps mixed with other materials such as certain metals or wood. You can choose something elegant and understated but effective, or maybe something bigger, more colourful, and even more powerful. Everyone has different tastes, so you have to find glass art that you enjoy.

Make Use of Mirrors

Mirrors are also a fantastic way to make use of glass outdoors. If you want to make your garden look bigger, the use of mirrors can help. Mirrors reflect the space around them and help it to look like there is more space for you to use. If you want to hang a mirror, you can find some beautiful traditional styles. However, you can also look for something more contemporary if you’re not a fan of arches or ornate frames. You could place a mirror at the end of your garden, at the head of your outdoor dining table, or somewhere else that will give the illusion of more space.

Install Glass Balustrades, Railings and Floors

 

Sunrock Balconies Enhance your garden with glass

 

Sunrock Balconies offers a range of glass products that you can use to improve not just the aesthetics of your garden, but also the functionality. Infinity glass balustrades allow you to install a barrier that doesn’t obstruct or obscure your view. The infinity glass is installed seamlessly to enhance your garden. Staircases and steps can be made more stylish with glass railings, and even glass floors on balconies can allow light to shine through to the space below.

Enhance your garden with glass to turn it into a more inviting space that you will want to use all year. To contact us or request an online quote, please click here.

 

Why Coastal Property Owners should use Glass for their Balustrades

Posted Sunrock Balconies

In Britain, we’re lucky to be spoiled with over 19,000 miles of beautiful scenic coastline. Coastal properties are some of the most sought after in the country and an attractive sea view can add up to 50% to the value of a property.

A well-designed balcony or deck can be the perfect place from which to enjoy those beautiful views and breath the sea air.

But harsh coastal environments can cause you major headaches when it comes to maintaining your property. Salty air, wind, fog and humidity can cause corrosion and damage to your home and your balconies and balustrades will bear the brunt of this.

Glass and infinity glass balustrades are the ideal material for coastal properties for a number of reasons both practical and style based.

 

Enjoy Uninterrupted Views

 

glass railings parapet walls

 

One of the pure joys of owning a coastal property is those fantastic sea views. Why would you then interrupt those with wooden or metal balustrades?

Infinity glass balustrades allow you to enjoy those amazing sea views without interruption creating a seamless extension of your indoor and outdoor living spaces.

You won’t have to worry about blocking out those glorious sunrises and sunsets either as the glass will let the light through them and into your home.

 

Create A Feeling Of Space

 

Glass has been used by designers for hundreds of years to create a feeling of more space within a home, by having this transparent balustrade, you not only get a great view, but you create a seamless transition between your home, your outside space and the landscape beyond.

 

Glass Is The Most Versatile Of Materials

 

Every home is unique and you put your style on it with every choice. Whether your home is modern or more traditional in style, glass is a great choice.

Coastal properties often feature large windows to take advantage of the views. Glass will complement the existing features and can be used both inside and out on features such as staircases, balconies, pools fencing and elevated walkways.

You can choose glass in a variety of shades, tints and etchings and from a number of fixing, styles and handrails.

 

It’s Built To Withstand The Elements

 

The British weather is nothing if not erratic. Unlike most other materials, glass won’t rot in the damp, salty conditions of the coast. It’s also strong enough to deal with the high winds.

This robustness against the elements makes it a great choice when it comes to safety.  Like iron, tempered glass is very strong but won’t be compromised by corrosion.

 

If you’d like to know more about our glass balustrades or would like to talk through a project for your coastal property, Sunrock Balconies has a dedicated team of experts who can help and advise you on all aspects of your project. Our aim is to help add function, style, and appeal to your home so get in touch today.

 

 

All About Glass

Posted Sunrock Balconies

Glass is one of the most common materials used for the production of items we use every day. Our pre-historic ancestors used naturally formed glass from volcanic lava which had rapidly solidified without crystallisation for weapons or tools. This type of glass was of great value and was very much sought after.

Archaeological evidence of the first manufacturing of glass has been found in Ancient Egypt dating back to 1500BC. However, glass from these times was produced by glazing pre-made items or beads that had accidentally formed from metalwork. It was in the Bronze Age that the first signs of glassmaking as we know it became apparent where molten glass was poured into containers.

It wasn’t until the 1st century BC that glass blowing was first used by Syrian and Palestinian workers. This changed the whole industry enabling easy production at lower costs. The Romans spread the technique across their empire, and it became commonplace not only for the production of jewellery and containers but for architectural purposes.

How is glass made today?

Glass is made from sand. Sand contains soda ash, lime and silica, which when heated, becomes liquid. We’re talking temperatures of at least 1700°C or 3090°F!

Once it’s reached this temperature it completely transforms so it will never return to its original state and even when cooled it never quite solidifies. Scientists call this type of liquid an ‘amorphous solid’. So, as incredible as is sounds, it has the characteristics of a solid and a liquid!

Why is glass so versatile?

Glass is relatively inexpensive to produce. Because it’s transparent it can be used for a variety of purposes in and around our homes and workplaces. It is commonplace within the architecture of buildings adding interest, natural light and character.

It has a resistance to heat once it is set and it is ‘chemically inert’ – in other words it’s unreactive to materials or food products place on it or in it, so it is great for storage of food for instance.

Coloured, opaque, etched, moulded or cut, glass is exceptionally adaptable but equally, can be easily recycled or upcycled.

What is Laminated Glass?

Sunrock Balconies use laminated glass for balustrades. Laminated glass has a plastic interlay placed between two sheets of glass during production. This creates a tight bond so if the laminated glass does get damaged it will remain intact because the fragments are bound on the thin film of interlay. Therefore, it doesn’t shatter into tiny pieces and reduces the risk of injury.

Laminated glass provides greater UV resistance and sound proofing compared to standard glass so it’s great for external balcony balustrading and internal glass walls.

So, we’ve established that glass is exceptionally versatile and practical. That’s exactly why Sunrock uses it for infinity glass balustrades because they match these qualities. Fabulous design features, adding interest and luxury they will add style and sophistication to your home or outside space.

All are designed to your specifications making sure that Sunrock balustrading helps to change your lifestyle and create a feeling of space from within as well as more living space outside. We guarantee everything will be compliant with UK building regulations.

Take a look through our product range to get some more ideas, or if you are ready for the next step then request a quote today. If you’re still unsure, feel free to Get in touch – we’d be happy to answer any questions or discuss a job you have in mind.

How to Make the Most of Outdoor Living

Posted Sunrock Balconies

Summer 2018 was amazing wasn’t it? Were you able to get outside and enjoy the sunshine on your balcony or terrace?

 

Don’t have one but would like one? If so, you’ve come to the right place to get you started.

Here are some great tips!

 

Fit for Purpose

The first thing to think about is what you’re going to use it for. Is it just to sit on your own to read a book or a place to entertain friends and family with a full-scale BBQ? Once you’ve decided you can plan the rest.

 

Flooring

There are many balcony and terrace flooring solutions out there. From Wooden decking, stone or slate to turf or even gravel. It’s all about budget and requirements – remember you’ll need a sturdy base for furniture or a BBQ. But we have a solution that can meet both.

Sunrock Balconies install all balcony decking using EcoDek, a 100% recycled product made from Wood Polymer Composite which carries a 25 year guarantee. It is virtually maintenance free (you still have to clean it) because it doesn’t host algae.

Depending on your setting, you may like to consider glass flooring  an alternative.

 

Sunrock Balconies

 

Balustrading

You will want something beautiful that adds an architectural feature too. Our infinity glass balustrades break down the visual barrier between your indoor and outside living areas but will also connect them. The feeling of space you will gain cannot be beaten and it will provide an essential safety barrier compliant with regulations.

If your outside living space is higher up, adding a spiral staircase, steps or gates may also be something to think about.

 

Infinity glass balustrade Sunrock Balconies

 

Finishing Touches

Do you want a gas heater or firepit? Great if you want to use your space in cooler weather.

Deckchair, sunlounger or dining sets, wood or rattan, there is so much to choose from – the possibilities are endless.

Some twinkly lights or a lantern provide a warm glow or for more light solar powered LED lighting is an option.

Here at Sunrock Balconies our dedicated team of experts can help and advise you on making the right choice from the variety of options we have on offer. We are certain it will make the difference you are looking for to your property. Get in touch, we’d love to have a chat about your project.

 

Why Glass Balustrades are the Ultimate Choice

Posted Sunrock Balconies

Thinking about adding a balustrade to your balcony or terrace?

Consider glass balustrades first….. here’s why.

 

 

Adding a balustrade to your balcony or terrace helps to separate a space for outdoor living from your garden or other external areas. It also provides and essential safety feature if the area is raised and very often adds the perfect finishing touch to your project.

Balustrades can be produced from a variety of materials such as wood, stone, plastic, wrought iron or steelwire. But it’s our Glass Balustrades that we want to talk about here! We call them Infinity Glass Balustrades simply because that is what they offer – an infinity view. But that’s not all they offer – here’s what other qualities they can:

Add Style

 

Sunrock Infinity Glass Balustrades offer sophistication and elegance to your outdoor living space. They can transform your patio, balcony or terrace by allowing maximum light in plus an uninterrupted viewpoint. Our Infinity Glass Juliet Balconies provide the safety barrier you need for your family whilst at the same time allowing light to flood into your room.

 

Add Value

 

Having an Infinity Glass Balustrade installed is most likely to add financial value to your property.  The words ‘high end’, ‘luxury’ and ‘modern’ are all key words you can associate with our balustrades – words which are very often on the wish list of homebuyers looking for a modern finish and luxurious feel to their potential new home.

 

Sunrock Balconies glass balustrade

 

Add Versatility

 

The nature of glass ensures that it fits seamlessly into most indoor and outdoor designs. Sunrock Infinity Glass Balustrades are beautifully engineered, ultra-modern and can be completely frameless.  As a result, they deliver a wonderful feeling of space drawing the area beyond in and allowing light to flood in.

 

Sunrock Balconies glass balustrade

 

Add Durability

 

Believe it or not glass is very durable. It will not be affected by weathering such as rotting or fading. Our balustrades without a handrail are manufactured with 17.5 mm laminated toughened glass. Those with a secure handrail will be 15mm toughened glass. All rails and fixings are matching marine grade 316 stainless steel which is particularly good if you are by the coast or have a swimming pool.  All glass is certificated.

 

Add Simplicity

 

Forget about oiling timber every year or replacing rusty railings. Life is far too busy for that. Sunrock’s Infinity Glass Balustrades are the perfect solution offering a simple cleaning regime rather than time consuming and laborious maintenance.  All you have to do is wipe the glass over with a soft cloth using a mild detergent diluted in water. We’d suggest doing this every 1-2 months, depending on where you live and how the weather has been. Alternatively, how about asking your window cleaner to do it?

If you’d like to know more about our products or would like to talk through a project you have in mind, Sunrock Balconies has a dedicated team of experts who can help and advise you on all aspects of your project. Our aim is to help add function, style, and appeal to your home so get in touch today.