If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy your outdoor space, why not add a deck or patio with glass balustrades as the finishing touch?
Decking is a popular feature for creating an outdoor seating area for relaxing in nature, or dining and entertaining. Even balconies and terraces can be transformed into a more modern, airy space by surrounding them with glass balustrades.
Of course, it’s not just about looks – deck railings are first and foremost a safety feature, to prevent anyone from tripping and falling over the edges of the raised platform. It’s also important to have the proper support in place if the deck has stairs.
When thinking about garden decking ideas, you should consider who will be using the space, and how they’re going to be using it – this will help you decide on the final look and installation method.
To get some inspiration on choosing glass railings for decking, have a read through this blog and discover the benefits of different types of glass balustrades.
Why choose glass balustrades for decking?
If you want a chic outside space for socialising and al fresco dining, external glass balustrades are one of the best options for separating your patio or decking area from the rest of your garden. They make it easy to elegantly define your seating area without disrupting the view beyond.
Glass decking balustrades offer safety and simplicity in style, especially if you opt for an unobtrusive frameless design. Some of the many benefits of this type of decking barrier include:
- Easy installation – straightforward and fast, achieving your dream set-up in a few hours
- Low maintenance – weather-resistant glass won’t rot or rust and is easy to wipe clean
- Minimal yet strong – doesn’t disturb the view or the sunlight but still acts as a windbreak
- Safe and durable – toughened glass will last for a long time and is difficult to shatter
When you choose glass balustrades for decking rails, you can be confident in an aesthetically appealing end result with structural longevity.
Which type of glass balustrade is best for decking?
Since part of the popularity of glass balustrades is down to their versatility, there are many types to choose from. When you’re designing your decking balustrades, the main decision is whether you want the glass to be framed or frameless.
Framed glass balustrades support the glass panels with steel or aluminium posts in between, with matching fittings. There may or may not be a matching metal handrail along the top, depending on the look you’re going for. This is also known as ‘post and clamp’ installation.
For those who want the ultimate contemporary sleek style, frameless glass balustrades forego the posts and clamps. The glass is secured in place using a runner fitted into the floor, which does take a little longer, but is still relatively fast and easy to complete.
Whichever framing style you choose, you can adjust the look further according to the type of glass you choose. You could go with the classic clear glass, or ultra-clear low-iron glass for the best view. Or, to add some privacy, you could go for tinted glass or frosted glass.
How should you install glass balustrades on decking?
The way you should install glass balustrades on your decking depends on the system you purchase. You might pay for an inclusive installation service, or use your own equipment to install it yourself – you might even buy the glass and fittings separately for a higher level of customisation.
Whichever installation option you choose, the components should come with instructions from the manufacturer/seller on how to properly construct the glass balustrades.
Of course, the wooden decking or patio stones should already be laid ready for you to set up the railings. However, if you’re going for a frameless glass balustrade that requires fitting a profile into the ground, you’ll need to consider how that will work with your deck material first.
Before you can even place the order, you must measure the area carefully to determine the right dimensions for the glass panels, and how many posts and clamps or profiles you’ll need to fit around the space perfectly.
You’ll need to calculate the ideal spans between sections and whether a handrail is necessary or not by checking the UK Building Regulations. It’s your responsibility to make sure that your property meets safety standards, and these rules will explain the appropriate height, thickness, load capacity, and fixings for different situations.
When you’re prepared and have your plans sorted down to the millimetre, make sure to order from a reliable glass balustrade supplier in the UK. If you have any concerns about measuring up or installing the system, you can always contact them for expert advice!
