Are Glass Railings Right for You? Here’s What You Need to Know

Glass makes a space look more chic and classy, whether it’s your home or office. Glass railings have become a symbol of prestige on many properties. But should you really get glass railing for your space?

Before making a decision, you should consider a few things:

• First, consider your design. Glass railings come in a wide range of mounting options, color treatments, and designs. 
• Your next consideration should be the use of the railing. Where exactly will it be located? A public space, an industrial zone, or a home? Can people put a lot of pressure on it?
• The weather should be your last consideration. It will help you choose a suitable glass according to the weather conditions. 

With that in mind, let’s go through other considerations that will determine if getting a glass railing is right for you. 

Where Can You Use Glass Railing?

Most buildings, particularly in urban and suburban regions, have some kind of glass construction. Contrasted with more traditional materials like concrete or metal, glass railings give off an air of sleek modernity.

Glass railings are a great option when designing a contemporary building to showcase its amenities to guests, residents, and employees. They are a common sight around patios, balconies, pool areas, and staircases. Let’s take a closer look at each spot.

Staircases

The glass staircase is an eye-catching, striking example of contemporary architecture. Because it permits beautiful design while satisfying stringent construction regulations and standards, this method is highly regarded by many commercial building architects.

Balconies or Outdoor Spaces

Balconies provide a sense of independence and security; visitors can unwind and enjoy the scenery from the comfort of their own space. The glass railings increase the tranquility.

Pool Spaces

Glass railings are also often seen around pools. Glass constructions in pool and deck areas of privately held commercial buildings offer flair without limiting safety. This material type is often used to provide an air of refinement to establishments like hotels and country clubs.

Patios

In the previous decade, patios have undergone many changes. Glass, with its natural beauty, is a great choice for home and office décor. The goal of the glass structural system is to elevate a space while enhancing vistas and ensuring safety.

Also Read: Guide to Selecting the Right Window Glazing for Your Needs

How Thick Should The Glass Be?

The minimum thickness of glass panes required for installation is specified by law. The nominal thickness for all forms of glazing should at least be 1/4 inch (6.4 mm). Glass railings have different needs inside and outside, and we’ve laid them out for you here.

Indoors

The needs for glass in an interior setting vary from those in an outdoor one. The standard for commercial infrastructure glass thickness is around 6 mm or about a quarter of an inch. Since every project is unique, it is crucial to contact businesses that specialize in making glass guardrails so they can advise you on the necessary thickness of glass.

Outdoors

Inclement weather might make it more difficult to comply with outside limitations. Tempered glass, which is both more common and safer, is recommended when placing glass around balconies, patios, or other areas.

Prior to cutting, it must be at least 10 mm thick. If the thickness of the glass you need for your project is different, however, you may find firms that provide custom-cut glass.

Glass Types You Can Choose From

An understanding of the types of glass that are available is necessary before a builder can decide that glass is the material for their project. 

Heat-resistant or Heat-strengthened Glass

First, heat-strengthened glass is an uncommon material. Few are aware of it; most are only familiar with safety glass and bonded glass. 

One distinguishing feature is the strength. Compared to regular glass, heat-treated glass is two to three times stronger. Nevertheless, the most significant drawback of this kind is that it might inflict harm when it breaks since, if the explosion is powerful enough, it produces enormous shards.

Safety Glass

Many structures use safety glass, which is more often known as tempered glass. Superheating shapes and strengthens parts to make tempered glass. Even after breaking, safety glass remains distinct due to the cooling process. The term “safety glass” comes from the fact that, when broken, the glass breaks into innocuous fragments even when subjected to extreme force.

Bonded Glass

Another kind of safety glass, bonded glass (also known as laminated glass), is even more secure than regular glass as it does not shatter. Bonded glass is an excellent option for commercial structures due to its increased strength once bonded. Bonded glass can also withstand bullets.

Get Affordable Glass Railing in NYC!

Looking for reasonably priced glass railings in NYC and NJ? NY Glazing Group can help you take your space a notch up! We provide a first-rate glass installation service by collaborating closely with our customers. 

In New York City and New Jersey, we provide first-rate glass solutions and installation services.