Glass Balcony - Building Regs

7 years ago

I'm having a glass balcony in front of a converted shed in my garden. The balcony will be off a deck and is accessed from the first floor. It overlooks a ground floor courtyard which is off the master bedroom. Whilst it's nowhere near as striking as this Cornish example in the 'stories' section, I've chosen glass so that the whole thing is seamless and doesn't take away any light from the courtyard. My builder thinks I need a secondary 'protection' (he means another fence or a wall of some kind) to stop guests falling over the balcony into the courtyard. I see many examples of where this hasn't been done .... does anyone know the building regs associated with this (so I can go back to him with proof that it's not necessary). Thanks.

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Comments (4)

PRO
Eastwell Ironworks Ltd
7 years ago
Hi Lynn, There are as you quite rightly state building regs for such a balcony. There are numerous options for designs and styles too. You can have a " seamless " glass barrier without a handrail on top, which would normally fit into a shoe bottom channel and secured. This would normally be a toughened glass and thicker but it doesnt interfere with a view as a handrail would. You do not require another barrier though. As for losing light underneath, in your courtyard, you could include walk on glass to let light through. We are currently making balconies for a client who has a sea view ( no handrail ) and windows underneath, so as not to lose any light we are incorporating,opaque walk on glass in these areas. Another point, we have researched for the decking and think that " ecodek " is an excellent product for a composite board that is solid ( not hollowed out ) hard wearing and will have a longevity in the location. Sorry for waffling on !! Should you want any more info or advice please feel free to contct me. Please remember at the end of the day it is YOUR balcony and what YOU want ( within legal constraints of course ) not what someone else wants you to have! Regards Leigh.
PRO
Eastwell Ironworks Ltd
7 years ago
Sorry forgot to mention Building reg is Part K and barrier should be 1100mm high .

Leigh.
lynndickinson thanked Eastwell Ironworks Ltd
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lynndickinson
Original Author
6 years ago
Leigh - thank you so much for your helpful comments and support. And also thank you for the Building Reg info. Our glass balustrade is 1100mm high so it complies. The opaque glass is a fantastic idea, though our budget is now constrained so don't think we will go that far. However, I've already started researching the Ecodek product!! Thanks again
PRO
Eastwell Ironworks Ltd
6 years ago
Hi Lynn, your very welcome, if you want any more info or advice, please feel free to contact me. Leigh.

Glass Balcony - Building Regs

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Glass Balcony - Building Regs

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