Glass balustrades are a stunning choice for interior design, as they add a touch of elegance, class, and luxury to any home’s aesthetic. They’re beautiful for both indoor and outdoor use and can be installed on balconies, patios, indoor staircases, and decks.
As gorgeous as they are, however, most people may think that railing solutions made of glass are hazardous installations for the home, especially when used indoors. Since glass is typically fragile and prone to breakage, people may veer away from such balustrade options, opting for other finishings instead. Contrary to this common misconception, glass is actually one of the safest materials to use for railing systems as they’re extremely durable and low-maintenance.
Deciding on using handrails inside your home takes into account several factors. Here are the things one ought to consider when using glass handrails indoors.
Safety of Glass Handrails
When debating on installing glass railings, people’s greatest concerns are typically about the material’s ability to support the weight of constant use. To abate that fear, railings aren’t made of typical glass due to the nature of their use. They’re built from specialised tempered safety glass, which is about four times more durable than regular glass. This material remains sturdy throughout its lifetime and is considered safer and more convenient than wooden balustrades, which are susceptible to rot and deterioration over time. Overall, glass railings are quite secure!
There are also types of glass railings that have different advantages depending on the option you choose:
Framed Glass Railings
These are the most commonly used kinds of glass railings. The panels of this type are held in place by a frame (usually composed of steel or wood), which provides more support for the glass and sports a look that is pleasing to the eye.
Framed glass railings are also ideal for staircases, so people climbing up and down the steps can have a more secure handhold for their stability and safety.
Frameless glass railings
Frameless glass railings are better suited for homeowners who want to maximise the views in their home, particularly on outdoor balconies and rooftop terraces.
Commercial properties, such as restaurants and hotels, also make use of frameless glass balustrades to make for a fine display. However, these might not be the best option for indoor staircases, as safety is always the primary concern of most developers when it comes to staircase support.
The Benefits of Using Glass Handrails Inside the Home
1. Beautiful modern aesthetic
Glass railings give an extra touch of sophistication and modern sleekness to any home. By adding glass to an otherwise ordinary-looking banister, the look of the house is instantly elevated to feel more spacious and look more “current.”
2. Low maintenance
Glass surfaces are much easier to clean than other materials, so your glass handrails will only take a few minutes to wipe down should they attract any dust or fingerprints. Since it’s a material that doesn’t require much maintenance, unlike wood, glass handrails are also easier to maintain over time!
3. Increased property value
Installing glass handrails increase the visual appeal and overall value of your property, should you decide to rent or sell it. Having elegant, more luxurious fixtures earn you plus points in real estate—so consider your glass railings an investment in that regard as well!
4. Safety
While wooden railings have a gorgeous, traditional feel to them, they can also be hazardous for curious children and pets. Heads can get stuck, and small-enough animals can shoot right through the spaces between posts!
5. A wide variety of options
Glass railings may seem like an option for those with bigger budgets to spare on decoration and furnishings; but fortunately, they also come in a variety of cost-efficient options! Metal frames, for instance, are usually more expensive than aluminium ones.
Choosing the right material for your glass handrails entirely depends on what suits you, your home, and your budget.
Conclusion
Glass handrails provide homeowners with the best of both worlds: a luxurious looking staircase and a safer one, to boot. They’re great for both indoor and outdoor use and come in a variety of options that are suitable for any part of your property. With all the benefits of glass balustrades, they’re the perfect addition to any home that requires an upgrade in its interior design!
Are you looking for a supplier of glass balustrades in Perth? At Aussie Balustrading, we sell steel stairs, wireless balustrading, and residential and commercial handrails. Our handrails include options for frameless glass and stainless steel and glass balustrades. To view more of our products and services, visit our website today!
