Balustrades – Everything That You Need To Know
Have you ever heard about Balustrades? Balustrades are nothing new in the world of architecture and home remodeling. Why not install indoor & outdoor balustrades and give a striking & elegant look to your home or project?
Railings have always been used to support balconies and other structures in homes, but they are especially popular for stair systems. There are good reasons why balustrades offer so many benefits to your staircases. They are considered a significant aspect of both the internal & external structural design of your property. Further, in this post, we will explore information about the Balustrades.
What are the Balustrades?
Generally, Balustrades are railings that are installed or fixed to the sides of balconies or terraces, stairs, and swimming pools to prevent people from falling. In short, it is a railing supported by a string of small columns called balusters.
Apart from this, it also has an important design feature that makes the place look more beautiful. They first appeared in Italian architecture during the Renaissance time.
Australian Standards for Balustrades
There are some different Australian standards of balustrades, depending on the material and intended use. The installation of handrailings is not only the aesthetic use but also for safety & security. In doing so, you must be considered the safety standards of balustrades, from construction, and inspection to compliance with BCA regulations.
- BCA Balustrades regulations and standards
The BCA regulations generally specify handrails as follows:
Be at least 1 meter high, measured from the finished floor
Provide an opening of 125 mm or less between risers or posts
Able to withstand loads and shocks according to AS 1170.1
- Specific constructions standards of Balustrade
Regarding safety, there are two aspects to consider when building balustrades. First, remember that balustrades must meet the minimum BCA standards. Second, it must comply with state, territory, and local regulations. Let's take a nearby look at the safety standards.
- Balustrades are a legal requirement for outdoor surfaces that are at least 1 meter above the ground or at least 1 meter above the ground.
- Balustrades must be structurally strong enough to withstand the load.
- Vertical openings must not exceed 125 mm.
- The distance between the lowest rail and the ground should not exceed 100mm.
- Railings installed on balconies higher than 4 meters above the ground must not include horizontal elements that can be used for climbing.
- Inspection of older Balustrade
There are a wide variety of materials used to make railings. These materials can degrade or become damaged over time, so you should be aware of the following:
- "Concrete cancer" (detachment)
- rust and corrosion
- Loose, damaged tensions wires
- cracked glass
- Loose, rusty fittings
If you suspect something is wrong, we recommend you contact a building inspector or licensed contractor for a thorough inspection. It's good to know that all balustrades have regulations and standards for balustrades. The main purpose of these safety standards is to protect people from unwanted hazards.
Types of Balustrades:
1. Wooden / Timber Balustrades:
When choosing a wooden railing, the weight of the handrails should not be heavier than the balustrades. The advantage of choosing wooden railings is that they match perfectly with the ornate and overall design. Varnish can be applied in any shade to maintain its beauty.
2. Cement Balustrades:
This type of balustrade is suitable for stairs that are made from cement. These types of balustrades are typically designed for home exteriors who want a Tuscan or Greek look.
3. Glass Balustrades:
Glass Balustrades can work with wooden or cement stairs and various handrails. Nowadays, glass railing is the first choice for modern homes. Glass railings work well in homes where you want the upper floors to be visible. For a little bit more privacy, the glass balustrades can be covered with a film covering the upper floors. However, glass balustrades require regular maintenance to ensure durability and safety.
4. Wire Balustrades:
There are also horizontal, vertical, and columnar designs of wire balustrades. These also work with wooden or iron railings. Wire railings are the most common and ideal for outdoor patios and balconies.
5. Iron Balustrades:
This type of balustrade can be matched with steel stairs and handrails. However, it can also be combined with wooden stairs. The advantage of iron railings is that they can have complex patterns.
6. Mild Steel Balustrades:
When used mild steel (durable, low-carbon steel designed for manufacturing) for balustrading, it provides a minimalist aesthetic & elegant look that's well-suited for nearly any construction era, especially mid-century homes. They are either hot dip galvanized, painted, or powder coated.
These types of balustrades vary in material and design, but most homeowners and designers combine them with two or more styles. Some people have installed both glass and vertical aluminum railings to create a more aesthetic design.
Benefits of Balustrades:
Balustrades are the most effective way to improve the aesthetics and safety of your building. Whether your home is traditional or new in style, balustrade help to keep you and your guests safe and secure.
Some benefits of balustrade systems are listed below:
1. They give an elegance & beautiful look to your property
2. You can protect your property from wild animals and thieves
3. Balustrades offer design resilience, and you can also choose railings in different widths and heights or request curved designs.
4. Handrails provide the stable support seniors and others with mobility issues need to safely navigate stairs within their homes.
5. If you want a fast and inexpensive way to add profound value to your home, then balustrade systems are an excellent option.
6. Balustrades and hand railings are durable.
7. It helps to prevent small children and pets from falling from balconies and roofs.
8. To prevent residents and guests from falling down stairs.
9. Balustrades provide overall security to homeowners and visitors.
10. Handrailings have low maintenance.
11. Easy to customize because they can be available in various lengths and heights with the shape straight, curved, and crafted.
Conclusion
We hope this information or ideas inspire you to install beautiful and safe balustrades in your home or space. With so many designs and materials to choose from, it's easy to find a railing that suits your taste and blends seamlessly with your environment. If you are looking for strong, high-quality, and beautiful balustrades, make sure to get in touch with us at Around Town Site Service today. If you require information instantly, Call us today at 03 9459 4774 for an instant quote!
