Built-In Peace of Mind: Understanding Glass Balustrade Safety in Ireland

The sleek appearance of a glass balustrade might lead some to question its strength, but modern glass systems are, in fact, one of the safest choices for Irish homes.

1. The Safety Glass Standard

For any structural balustrade, only safety glass is used, primarily in two forms:

• Toughened Glass: This is heated and rapidly cooled to be up to five times stronger than standard glass. If it ever breaks, it shatters into small, blunt pieces, not large, dangerous shards.

• Laminated Glass: This is the ultimate choice for frameless systems. It consists of two sheets of glass bonded together by a plastic interlayer (usually PVB). If the glass is struck, the interlayer holds the pane intact, preventing a hole and maintaining the barrier until a replacement can be installed.

2. Safety for Children and Pets

Glass balustrades offer unique safety benefits, especially for families:

• No Footholds: Unlike railings with horizontal bars, the smooth glass surface is virtually impossible for children to climb, eliminating a major safety hazard.

• No Entrapment: There are no wide gaps or spindles for small heads or limbs to get stuck.

• Unobstructed View: You can easily supervise children or pets on a balcony or deck without having to lean over the barrier.

3. Height and Structural Compliance

All our glass installations meet or exceed the required standards for height and load-bearing capacity. For exterior balconies and decks, this is typically 1100mm (1.1 metres) above the finished floor level, ensuring a safe and compliant barrier.

Investing in a glass balustrade is an investment in both style and proven safety technology. To ensure your system is compliant and built to the highest standard, always choose a professional Irish installer. Visit www.glassbalustradesireland.com for peace of mind.