Glass railings offer a modern, attractive look that’s increasingly popular, both for residential and commercial construction. Here are a few things to consider when you’re thinking about installing glass railing.
Look
There are several styles of glass railing to choose from, ranging from ones made almost entirely of glass to those that are mostly aluminum with decorative glass panels. When choosing a railing, you’ll want to consider how the style will match the interior and exterior design of the building, including the colours of the top rails and posts. Try sketching it out or using an online simulator to visualize how your railing will look.
Location
Glass railings will show water spray and dirt more readily than other types of railings. Because of that, it’s a good idea to avoid placing them near bodies of water, roads, gravel or dirt driveways and other sources of grit. You should also avoid installing them in areas where they’re likely to be damaged.
Maintenance
Glass railings require some maintenance. They’ll need to be cleaned with glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth regularly. Alternatively, you can use a mixture of vinegar, water and dish soap. When installing the railing, you’ll also want to consider how easy it’ll be to clean.
Installation
Railings are complex projects. There are code requirements in most areas, and properly installing glass railings requires highly specialized knowledge. A professional will be familiar with the relevant building codes and will also be able to help you choose the right type of safety glass for your railing. Doing this yourself is risky. Any mistake could cost you a lot of money down the road, either because you’d need to redo the construction if it’s not up to code or because poor installation could result in injuries or accidents.
Cost
The cost of a glass railing is usually calculated by the foot. There are a variety of price points, depending on the style and quality of the materials, so you’ll want to do your research on the type of railing you want. Make sure to get a detailed estimate from a few companies before settling on one.
Glass Railing Experts in Victoria
If you need an estimate for a railing project, give us a call at Allied Glass & Aluminum Products Ltd. and we’ll talk you through your options. Our team has experience with all sorts of projects and we can help with installation, repair and maintenance.