Glass Balustrade Regulations
Glass balustrades are popularly used in staircases, balconies, terraces, and pool fences. Their popularity can be attributed to the sleek, trendy, and modern look that they provide. If you want balustrades that will provide you with a generous view of what is on the other side of the balustrade, then glass balustrades are the right choice for your home or office.
Aside from this, glass balustrades can easily make an area look expansive. There is also very little effort involved in cleaning and maintaining it because all you need is a good glass cleaner and a soft cloth. If you have a stainless steel glass balustrade then a quick wipe of the glass balustrade fittings is enough to keep them shiny and clean.
One of the common concerns when it comes to using glass balustrades is safety. Since glass is the main material used in glass balustrades, some people get the impression that they are delicate and fragile. Contrary to these impressions, glass balustrades are very strong, safe, and secure. There are code requirements that need to be met when constructing or installing glass balustrades. It is important to make sure that your glass balustrade fulfills the glass balustrade regulations set by Australian Building Codes Board.
Below are the glass balustrade regulations that you need to comply with to ensure the safety of your glass balustrade.
- Strength. It is important that your glass balustrade has strong and durable glass this is why Australian glass balustrade regulations require the use of Grade A Safety glass in glass balustrades. The types of glass that are allowed are toughened glass, laminated glass, heat strengthened laminated glass, and toughened laminated glass. Considering the whole glass balustrade, it should be able to withstand 0.6kN of point load and 0.4kN of evenly distributed load.
- Gaps. Most glass balustrades still have gaps in between glass panes. These gaps should be less than 125 mm.
- Handrail. As protection in cases the glass breaks, glass balustrades are required to have handrails. This handrail should have three contact points to ensure that the handrail will stay in position even if the glass breaks.
To ensure that your glass balustrade is safe, have your glass balustrade supplied and installed by a company that ensures compliance with Australian glass balustrade regulations. We have compiled a list of such companies in Australia to help make your search for glass balustrade suppliers and installers quick and easy. Feel free to contact them directly using the details included in our listing or to browse through their sites to know more about their products and services.
Do you want to know more about glass balustrade regulations? You may send us your enquiries using the contact form below. If you install or supply glass balustrades, visit our Advertise page for more details on how to be included in our listings.
