What is balustrade glass?
Balustrade glass panels are a type of safety glazing used in guarding systems that protect against falls at changes in level (e.g., staircases, balconies, landings).
In England, you can find the relevant guidance in Approved Document K, with specific technical guidance on barriers and infill panels in BS 6180.
For most single-family homes, the minimum guarding height is 900mm for internal stairs and landings, increasing to 1,100 mm for external balconies and roof edges. But we know that every opening and installation is different.
Your glass specification should always match your specific fixing system and the requirements of your professional installer.
Why use balustrade glass
Clear sightlines
A staircase balustrade made using glass can make a home feel much less enclosed.
The heavy rails or closely spaced spindles of timber or wrought-iron staircases look beautiful (and are usually the go-to for period properties), but their solid construction can obstruct natural light.
With our made-to-order balustrade glass panels, you don’t have to miss out on sunlight or compromise safety.
Safety-first material
Toughened glass is engineered to be four to five times stronger than standard float glass – in homes and high-traffic spaces, safety should never be an afterthought. In the unlikely event the glass fails, it’s designed to crumble into smaller, less dangerous pieces.
Low maintenance
Timber requires regular staining, and metal can corrode – both of these materials need regular upkeep to look their best. But our toughened balustrade glass is exceptionally low maintenance.
For busy family homes, give your glass a quick wipe-down to remove fingerprints.
Made to your exact size
With Toughened Glass Direct, you don’t have to pay for a large, architectural package.
Order the exact panel you need in the right size, thickness, shape and finish for your project. We’ve made it easy for homeowners to pay for professional-grade glass with no inflated minimum order expectations.