When it comes to choosing safety rails for your property, many people are torn between increasing safety and sacrificing elegance and aesthetics. Do not be concerned if you find yourself in this situation. The ideal solution is a glass railing system. Traditional railing systems, such as iron and wood, have been in use for decades and have served their purpose admirably.
However, technological advancements have provided a low-cost alternative that provides stylish, long-lasting, and versatile designs. Are you considering glass railings for your property? Consider the advantages listed below to help you make an informed decision.
Easy Installation
Glass railings are generally easier to install than other types of railings. Some are only two parts – glass panels and a railing, making installation a breeze. Other glass railing models may be more complicated, but they still provide simple, quick installation when compared to iron, wood, or steel alternatives.
Increased Safety and Durability
Glass railings are safe and extremely durable, in addition to their sleek appearance and ease of maintenance. For starters, because there are no slats or openings, a child or pet cannot stick their limbs or head through and become stuck or, worse, fall through. There is insufficient space between the glass and the supports. Second, because there are no places for children to gain purchase and fall, glass railings are difficult for them to climb on.
Finally, safety-tempered glass panels do not shatter into large, sharp pieces, making them suitable for use on and near stairs. They also act as a barrier against high winds, rain, and snowfall. They will not crack or change color when exposed to extreme temperatures, which is a plus. Unlike wooden or steel railings, which lose their luster and functionality after a few years, glass railings will remain beautiful and functional for a very long time.
Glass Railings Are Sustainable
Glass can be recycled, and it doesn’t emit any harmful chemical substances. This makes it an environmentally-friendly option for homeowners who are keen on preserving the environment. Other railing materials, such as iron, usually emit harmful substances over time, but glass is completely safe for long-term use in your residential or commercial property.
Easy to maintain
Glass is easier to maintain than iron, wood, and other railing materials, says TheSpruce. Glass, unlike other intricately designed materials, is sleek and easy to clean. Simply use a quality glass cleaner to clean the railings in a matter of minutes. In the event of scratches or other damage, polishing can often repair the problem and restore the railing’s shine, which is a significant advantage over wood or metal railings.
Tempered safety glass is treated at a high temperature to make it extremely tough and durable, so much so that it is unaffected by extreme weather. Furthermore, there is no risk of rot, rust, or mold. Wood can become infested with termites and other insects, rendering it unfit for use. Finally, no painting, staining, or replacement is required when you choose to install a glass railing.
Glass Railings Look Amazing
The clean lines and contemporary feel of glass handrails have made them popular among homeowners. Because glass is transparent, even the most narrow staircase appears wider and more spacious. Furthermore, because the tempered glass panels are nearly invisible, they create a smooth transition between your property and the surrounding landscape. You can customize the design to meet your needs, whether you choose a simple row of glass steps or a spiraling staircase with a glass railing.
Glass Railings Increase the Value of Your Property
Glass railings are an excellent choice for house flippers and property dealers who want to make their properties more appealing and valuable. They provide much-needed security while adding a special touch to your property. Glass rails will continue to look great and perform well even after years of use. Transparent glass railings, as opposed to wooden or metal ones, which look bulky and reduce visibility, make a space appear larger than it is.
Add them to your home’s staircase or around a backyard deck or pool to increase the value of your property. This means when you decide to sell your property, you can sell at a higher price than the market value.
Glass Railings Can be Easily Customized
Glass railings are easily customizable and can be matched to your existing home decor. Whether your home is modern or traditional in style, you can have them made to your specifications. Choose from a variety of glass shapes, sizes, transparencies, and tints to achieve the desired look and privacy. For added privacy, consider blurring or frosting the glass surface.
How to Install Glass Railings
When installing your glass railing, there are numerous things you must know about. These things include the following.
- A typical glass handrail does not require a pole. If it’s an outdoor one with a lot of foot traffic, it’s a good idea to add a metal column to avoid any accidents.
- If the glass handrail is installed in a multi-story building, its height should be between 1.1 and 1.2 m and meet the architectural design code requirements.
- Peripheral parts of glass stair railings must be polished and chamfered during production to avoid or reduce the occurrence of spontaneous glass breakage. For added stability, the base of a glass stair armrest should have embedded bolts.
- The railing structure and hardware must be strong enough to support the weight of the toughened glass (more details). As a result, its design must be in strict accordance with the design and specifications of your building. The design of your glass railing, as well as the selection of related accessories, must be completed well in advance of its installation.
Endnote
Glass railings are frequently a source of concern for homeowners and business owners who want to improve the appearance and safety of their property. Many people are concerned that the glass will break and cause injury or that it will not be strong enough to withstand normal wear and tear. That, however, is a myth. In reality, glass railings are safer and more beneficial than traditional railing systems in many ways.
They are a safe and valuable option for both residential and commercial projects when you choose quality glass and installation.