Going for the sleek, modern look? Glass balustrades are all the rage. They provide an important safety barrier without obstructing your view – if anything, they can enhance the natural light flow and improve your home’s architectural beauty.
You should understand the relevant building regulations to ensure compliance. Here’s what you need to know before fixing a glass balustrade to your flat roof.
What Are Glass Balustrades?
A glass balustrade system is a barrier made of glass panels that form a fence or safety railing and are typically found on elevated spaces with a risk of falling, like balconies and stairs.
The see-through glass provides an open aesthetic with unobstructed views and light – without compromising on safety. Glass materials are usually made from toughened safety glass and can come with or without a handrail.
Different Types of Glass Balustrades
All glass balustrades don’t come equally. Choose from different styles and glass types.
Frameless Glass Balustrades
Frameless systems rely on the glass panels for their structural integrity. The glass connects to the floor (and other points) without a visible frame for a clean and modern look with open views.
Semi-Framed Glass Balustrades
A frame supports the glass panels on either the top or bottom – but not all sides. This subtle frame provides support without compromising the sleek look.
Framed Glass Balustrades
Framed balustrades have a full frame. Posts and handrails are often made from stylish materials, like stainless steel beams for a classic, timeless appeal with robust support.
Toughened or Laminated Glass
What about the type of glass? Options available to you may depend on your local building regulations for safety.
- Toughened (or tempered) glass is a single pane heat-treated for added strength. If it breaks? It shatters into small, blunt pieces.
- Laminated glass is made of two or more layers bonded together with an interlayer (such as polymer), and if broken, the pieces stick to this interlayer – holding the panels together.
- Toughened and laminated glass is the safest and strongest option, combining the benefits of both. It’s usually by building codes.
What Do You Need To Install a Glass Balustrade to Your Roof?
Have you got a flat roof that you’d like to turn into a balcony? A glass balustrade will mean clear, beautiful views with added safety.
You need the appropriate fixings and a solid, level foundation. You’ll also need tools like a drill and a tape measure, as well as a spirit level.
Choose the right glass type. Check your local building regulations to make sure that you’re compliant. Decide whether you’ll go for frameless or framed – or something in between.
Confident DIY-er? Fit your glass balustrades yourself. Most people will want to loop in a professional roofer at this stage for added safety and accuracy.
How to Install a Glass Balustrade on a Flat Roof?
Remember to take safety precautions before climbing up onto your roof and leave the job for another day if the weather takes a turn.
Here’s how to DIY install your glass balustrade.
1. Plan the Layout
Measure the area. Mark the spots where you’ll install the posts and glass spacing. You need to make sure that you have a solid, level foundation to work with.
You’ll also need to plan water drainage channels to prevent water pooling on your flat roof. This can prevent water ingress in your home.
2. Check for Underground Wires or Pipes
Contact your utilities provider or local companies to check if there are any underground wires or pipes before you begin drilling. You don’t want a burst water pipe.
3. Install the Posts
Drill holes for your fixings. Secure the posts to the flat roof’s surface with a spirit measure to check they’re all aligned and straight.
4. Fit the Clamps
Attach the glass clamps to the posts to ensure they’re level and evenly spaced. You’ll once again want to use a spirit level to make sure that they’re all aligned.
5. Install the Glass
Fit your glass panels into the clamps. Use a rubber mallet to gently tap them into place if needed.
6. Final Checks
All done? Tighten the clamps and clean the area before giving your hard work a once-over. Make sure the balustrades meet local safety and building codes, which generally require a minimum height and no large gaps.
What Are the Building Regulations for Glass Balustrades?
They may look nice, but glass balustrades are there for safety. Building regulations ensure that your balustrades do the job properly. In Australia, you must:
- Make sure your balustrades are at least 1,000mm high (or 1,200mm for pool fencing)
- Make sure there are no gaps through which a 125mm sphere can pass
- Include a top rail or handrail
The thickness and type of glass depends on how high the balustrade is. For instance, balustrades over five metres need toughened laminated glass at least 11.52mm thick. The minimum thickness is 10mm.
There is also a maximum span. Toughened glass at 10mm has a recommended maximum span of 2,100mm, while 12mm toughened glass can reach 2,400mm.
These regulations are for your safety, and it’s important that you comply.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Glass Balustrade?
Costs depend on the type, but general price tags range between $90-175 per linear metre. Framed and semi-frameless options are cheaper, ranging between $90-125, and fully frameless systems are the most expensive – reaching up to $175.
The installation complexity can affect the cost, as does professional fees. A DIY job will lower your costs, but you might not get the same level of quality.
Final Thoughts on Glass Balustrades
Safety? Check. Aesthetics? Check.
Glass balustrades are the stylish choice to turn your flat roof into an extra outdoor space. Make sure you check up on the local building regulations to ensure compliance.
FAQs
Do You Need a Top Rail for Glass Balustrade?
Yes. Australian regulations require a top rail or handrail for your glass balustrade – especially when it comes to frameless systems. Double-check your local rules.
Can You Fit a Glass Balustrade Yourself?
You can take on the installation yourself if you’re handy with tools and have some DIY experience – that said, it requires a high level of precision and safety awareness, so many homeowners prefer to leave the job to the professionals for safety and accuracy. Stick with a simple post and clamp system and read up on compliance regulations if you do decide to go the DIY route.
Where Can You Install Glass Balustrades?
Glass balustrades are a popular choice for flat-roof balconies. But they also look great on stairs, mezzanine floors, pool areas, patios and decking – and they’re just as common in commercial buildings.