Balcony balustrade advice needed

4 years ago

I am very uncertain what balcony balustrade/screen to install.

The balcony has been created to comply with Planning/Building Regs over a flat roof extension at first floor height.

The plans include a continuous glass screen attached to the walls on either side. the length is somewhere in the region of 3 metres. I have been strongly advised by the builder that this would be the best solution because there are no vertical posts so less chance of weak spots where rain can penetrate.

My worries are as follows 1) glass can shatter unexpectedly 2) birds kill themselves flying into glass 3) cleaning it could be difficult 4) Our house is a 1920's urban cottage style (if that makes sense) so a timber balustrade would be more in keeping.

I would happily go for timber except that the posts will weaken the fibreglass roofing even though they can be installed before the roof goes on. Also the fibreglass will have to extend up the posts for 40 cm which could look unsightly. Also, in theory the wooden balustrade will need more maintenance in the future although very little cleaning!

My builder has ruled out EPDM which he regards as inferior to fibreglass.

I would so much appreciate any advice, thoughts, experience sharing that any of you folk can offer as I need to resolve this dilemma pronto. Many thanks.

Comments (2)

PRO
VORBILD Architecture
4 years ago
A continuous 3 glass screen isnt a great option at all - it will have to be super heavy and thick to not bend. You can easily subdivide it into at least 2 sections, it will substantially lower the price as well. I assume the locations for the fixings of the posts have been discussed with the engineer, so that they sit and are fixed to the structure?

As for alternative materials for the balustrade - personally we haven't ever done it in timber, most clients prefer glass (on metal posts) or metal - the latter is much cheaper, but glass is nicer.

Can you share a picture or two of your roof as is please? Happy to advise more then.
moorlikeit thanked VORBILD Architecture
moorlikeit
Original Author
4 years ago
Thanks for replying. Unfortunately I cannot share a photo as the old structure has now been demolished and the new is yet to be built. The planning application that was approved included the 3 metres of laminated glass which is just the front balustrade of the balcony; no corners, just a continuous piece. It will be fixed to the side walls of the balcony.

Any more thoughts?
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Balcony balustrade advice needed

Comments (2)

VORBILD Architecture

moorlikeit
Original Author

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Balcony balustrade advice needed

Comments (2)

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moorlikeitOriginal Author

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moorlikeit
Original Author