Glass balcony handrails are typically envied for their clean, contemporary look, but their advantages reach far beyond aesthetics. They provide a multitude of safety features, improve natural light and ventilation, and create energy efficiency. In this article, explore the hidden benefits of glass balcony handrails.
What are the different types of glass balcony handrails available?
- Glass Balustrades That Dependent on Posts: These old systems have supporting vertical posts. The glass would normally be mounted on the posts with clamps or lugs. This type of setup can be found on framed balustrades where the frame takes the load and not the glass itself.
- Structural Glass Balustrades: In this system, the structural element is the glass itself, frequently cantilevered into a “U” channel or clamping system. Thick, toughened glass (typically 15mm or greater) is needed to support loads. A handrail can be fitted on top for extra support.
- Hybrid Glass Balustrades: These integrate aspects of structural glass and post systems. They apply principles such as handrail strength, mechanical corner joining, and concealed posts to provide extensive areas of glass without the requirement of numerous posts.
Safety Features Often Overlooked
- Strength and Durability: Balcony glass handrails consist of laminated or tempered glass, which is very tough and resilient. These glasses have the capability of handling massive impact forces without collapsing in sharp, broken bits, offering total safety in the case of their breakage as well.
- Protection from Elements: Glass handrails serve as a shield from wind, rain, and snow, creating a safe outdoor area. This is especially useful in regions with extreme weather conditions.
- Prevention of Climbing: Glass handrails are not as easy to climb as conventional railings since they are flat and smooth. This helps to prevent accidents and injuries.
- Increased Visibility: The open nature of glass makes it possible to see clearly without obstruction, which reduces the occurrence of collisions due to good visibility. This is particularly necessary where there is high traffic.
How They Increase Natural Light and Ventilation
- Optimisation of Natural Light: Balcony handrails made of glass do not block natural light, and thus, it permeate freely into the space. This increases the brightness and openness of interior and exterior spaces.
- Visual Expansion: Since glass handrails do not have anything in the way, they produce the perception of wider areas. This visual expansion can transform narrower balconies into more expansive and welcoming spaces.
- Ventilation Benefits: Although glass itself will not directly enhance ventilation, the open nature of it can promote better airflow by eliminating obstructions to sight. This can assist in allowing more natural airflow throughout the space.
Energy Efficiency Benefits
- Less Material Consumption: Contemporary glass balcony handrails consume less material than conventional railings, which can lower the total carbon footprint of construction. This is because the structural integrity of glass enables slenderer designs.
- More Natural Light: By taking advantage of natural light, glass handrails can minimise the consumption of artificial lighting during the day. This can result in huge energy savings in the long run.
- Thermal Insulation: While glass is not a thermal insulator when used in combination with other materials (such as aluminium frames), it can be used to retain indoor temperatures by minimising heat loss or gain. This can lead to an energy-efficient building envelope.
Conclusion
Glass balcony handrails provide a myriad of advantages in addition to their beauty. They improve safety, optimise natural light, and enhance energy efficiency. Whether you are building a new house or remodelling an old one, adding glass balcony handrails can greatly enhance the functionality and sustainability of your home.