If you have a Balcony Balustrading, decked area, or even a large patio that offers sweeping views across the countryside then you can consider yourself very fortunate. But, with this fortune comes a risk. Elevated platforms give the potential for slips and falls which can result in death or serious injury.
That’s not a situation that you want to be dealing with.
The first thing you need to do is check out the various balustrade offerings from Rail Safe and the local regulations for balustrades. You already know that this is an essential item for the edge of your decking/balcony; the question is what type of balustrade do you want to choose?
Glass is exceptionally popular at the moment and with good reason:
Unobstructed Views
The most obvious advantage is that glass doesn’t block the very view that you’ve paid for and want to enjoy. A toughened glass balustrade will prevent you from falling and give you good wind protection; while still allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and the view; most of the year.
Space
The wrong balustrade can make your outside space feel dramatically smaller. Glass doesn’t have this issue; it’s an invisible barrier that gives you the feeling of freedom and space; that other balustrades simply cannot compete with.
The reason is the difficulty your eyes will have in perceiving the boundary; because the glass is transparent. That’s why glass really adds to the look and feel of your home.
Value
Glass balustrades look fantastic on virtually any style of home. In doing so they are likely to increase the value of your home. This is beneficial if you decide to sell, or you need to refinance.
Of course, this isn’t a reason by itself to invest in a glass balustrade; but it is a nice incentive.
Maintenance
Glass needs very little maintenance. All you have to do is clean it with a glass friendly product occasionally. This will maintain the view and look after the glass; ensuring it continues to do its role for many years to come.
Most other types of balustrade will require a more detailed maintenance program, such as cleaning and re-treating.
Of course, there are some downsides to glass balustrades that you should consider before you commit to your purchase:
Cleaning
Cleaning the inside of your glass balcony is easy. But, if it is elevated to give you the view you desire, it can be very difficult to reach the other side; especially as you’re not going to want to rest your ladder on the glass itself.
It is worth considering how you’ll manage this before you order your balustrade. If you can’t clean it then you’ll quickly lose the quality of your view.
Aesthetics
Glass balustrades look fantastic. But, it is important to recognize that they don’t suit every house. You’ll need to consider the architectural style of your home before you commit to purchasing a glass balustrade.
Don’t forget glass can be scratched and it is not easy to remove these scratches after they have happened; they will always detract from your view.
