STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS BUILDING ENVELOPE
using frameless glass, the glass thickness will increase, requiring additional structural supports. If you are looking for an ‘all glass’ look, then the glass will end up acting as a structural element in the building. At the extreme you may become limited by the manufacturing sizes available, the physical weight of the glass and the budget.
As a rule of thumb, glass weighs 2.5 kg per square metre, per millimetre of thickness. Therefore 1 m2
of 10 mm thick
glass will weigh 25 kg. When considering a structural glass balustrade panel, 1.1 m high x 4 m wide, using 21.5 mm thick toughened and laminated glass, the weight of the glass alone would be over 230 kg, and would need special lifting equipment or a crane to install it. The glazing contractor may be able to
support may be required to meet local wind loads and meet the Building Regulations. It will be expensive to install such support retrospectively. As an example, one of the most common errors is constructing a balcony from timber then deciding to install a frameless glass balustrade. This usually requires load-bearing steelwork
within the timber balcony structure. Remember, even if you do not need planning permission, you will still need to comply with Building Regulations. When it comes to balustrades, size and
performance are the driving factors. Small spans can be accomplished using simple glass clamping brackets, however if you are looking for large spans, especially
Oak frame buildings ideal for self-assembly or by our expert team
provide engineering calculations. but be prepared to employ your own structural engineer to check the supporting structures are suitable. To conclude, the key is to seek advice
early. There are a number of small architectural and structural glass companies who specialise in this area who have the experience with the problems and challenges facing the self-builder.
Dominic Meakins is managing director of Demon Designs
Please visit our website
oak-designs.co.uk to see further examples of our product range and special offers. You can also now design your own garage using our ‘Quote my Design’ tool online.
£5,200+ VAT*
*T&Cs available upon request. Offer ends 30/06.
£3,750+ VAT* *T&Cs available upon request. Offer ends 31/12
THE BEACON THE MIDHURST
Gazebos | Garden Buildings | Garages + First Floor
01273 400411
sales@oak-designs.co.uk
www.oak-designs.co.uk 38
www.sbhonline.co.uk april/may 2020
SPRING OFFER
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