interiors
Balustrading design – Practical implications
A beautiful new building or a stunning renovation project – whatever the scheme, balustrading is an integral part of any design. It’s a feature that can contribute to the overall look – positively or otherwise – so it is essential that designers spend time finding one that fits the bill. Harry Watson, managing director at SG System Products Ltd explores why
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alustrading is not just an essential feature for most buildings, it is also something that can consolidate the character of a building. For this reason alone, it is
important to make the most of what is essentially a small part, cost-wise, of a building project. Historically, balustrading accounts for just one or two
per cent of the cost of a new building project, but because it comes late in the construction process, there is a tendency for cost-cutting measures to be implemented if the budget is under strain by then. However, skimping on balustrading is inadvisable for
myriad reasons. Most importantly, safety considerations must be adhered to:
the balustrade must meet clearly defined structural requirements. A reputable supplier will ensure this is the case and will provide the relevant calculations, if requested. The question of maintenance should also be considered as
part of the lifetime cost. The cheapest balustrading – mild steel that is painted on site – although sufficiently strong to do its job, will need to be maintained regularly. There is also the question of aesthetic appeal that must be
considered by designers and end users because a poorly designed and constructed balustrade can cheapen the appearance of even the most elegant building. A simple way to avoid problems when it comes to budgeting
for balustrading is to specify a recognised system at the outset. By doing so, costs are largely known in advance, even if the
systems are tailored to suit the client’s specific requirements; quality is agreed and not left to interpretation; structural strength is defined; and delivery dates are more likely to be more reliable as the product manufacturing times will be already established. Of course, it is essential to select the balustrading system that
complements most closely the overall design theme; that meets the requirements of Disability Discrimination Act (DDA); and that meets any special structural requirements, if necessary. External balustrading provides visitors with that essential first impression. Stainless steel is often specified because it has to be
weather-proof, but ensure that the steel used in the manufacture of the balusters, handrail and fittings, is grade 316. Any lesser grade will not resist the weather. There are good alternatives to stainless steel. Mild steel with
a thick PVC sleeving is almost as durable, is available in a range of colours, and is particularly useful where disabled access is required because it is “warm to the touch”. If aluminium is used externally, it must be powder-coated or anodised. Either metal will look good but they will need to be maintained eventually. There is a much wider choice for internal balustrading,
giving designers the chance to go to town. A feature staircase can be enhanced with glass or stainless steel balustrading, or a combination of aluminium and stainless steel, while for a more functional, yet aesthetically pleasing, choice, stairs could be treated with a PVC sleeve, which would allow you to choose from a selection of colours, or even different colours for handrail and balusters. Continued overleaf...
‘Balustrading is not just an essential feature for most buildings, it is also something that can
consolidate the character of a building’
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