Everything to know about glass button balustrades

Whether you’re thinking about upgrading your home or modernising your office, glass balustrades are a great stylistic choice and a worthy investment. 

But with so many different types of balustrades on the market, it can be difficult to narrow your options down to just one. What if we could help you with that choice?

Glass button balustrades are a modern innovation that has become a popular choice for homeowners and business owners in the UK. Not only are these balustrades beautiful, robust, and safe, but they also provide uninterrupted views with no visible posts or structural framing.

Are you still feeling unsure? We’ve compiled a guide of everything you need to know about glass button balustrades, from what these balustrades are and their benefits to the best ways they can be used for commercial and domestic properties.

Glass button balustrades: what are they?

Characterised by their discrete design, glass button balustrades feature no obvious railing system. Instead, they’re fixed to a surface with circular metal fixings, often called “buttons”, that are mounted to the side of a staircase, balcony, or deck. 

Since they don’t rely on upright posts or a clamping channel like many traditional glass balustrades, the button system side-fixes the glass directly to the structure, creating a flawless effect. The result? A neat, visually pleasing glass wall that appears to “float” with almost nothing obstructing your view. 

Each button fixing is typically a round stainless steel clamp that anchors the glass panel to a support, like the side of a floor or stair tread. Because the fixings are minimal and placed at the corners of each panel, they are barely noticeable, creating an almost uninterrupted expanse of glass.

Of course, the glass panels are all separate, so you should expect slight gaps in the balustrade that will add a natural line or division to the design. However, there are no metal poles in the way, which is better for those who want an open, airy room.

If you prefer more of a rustic effect, then a framed glass balustrade may be more of the kind of thing you’re after.

The benefits of glass button balustrades

Now, if you’re looking to make a real change in your home or office, a glass button balustrade is a no-brainer. It’s modern and versatile, increasing the amount of natural light in your property and creating an expansive, uplifting atmosphere. 

However, you can expect these benefits with most types of glass balustrades, so let’s take a closer look at what makes glass button balustrades so special.

1. Interior and exterior installation

Glass button balustrades look great both indoors and outdoors, since they blend in with just about any interior and surroundings. 

Whether you have a modern or traditional interior, the glass will only amplify what’s already in your home, serving as a beautiful feature without overwhelming the space or taking the spotlight away from other decor. 

You can have them installed on staircases, verandas, balconies, patios, mezzanines, and public walkways! They’re great for defining boundaries in an open room without making the space feel closed off.

2. Customisable design

The best part about glass button balustrades is that you can customise them to meet all your needs. 

Glass button balustrades don’t require a top rail from a structural standpoint. However, when it comes to staircases, you may want something to hold onto. In this case, you can choose to add a stylish handrail, whether that be a slotted top rail or an offset handrail. 

Slotted top rails feature a slim metal rail (often stainless steel to match the buttons) that sits atop the glass and caps it. On the other hand, an offset handrail is mounted to the side of the glass panels via brackets and runs parallel to the glass.

Both provide a comfortable grip and add an extra layer of safety without taking away from the seamless appeal of the balustrade.

3. Unobstructed views

Of course, we couldn’t not mention unobstructed views again.

With many glass balustrade styles, you have to settle for clunky metal poles and obvious channel systems, which can sometimes detract from the simple, sleek style you’re going for. 

That’s why button balustrades win most people over; you can enjoy panoramic views from your garden, balcony, or office terrace without interruption.

4. Safety without sacrificing style

Many people may automatically opt for metal or wire balustrades since they appear less fragile, and therefore, more safe.

However, glass button balustrades are just as safe, and they’re a more elegant option for home interiors. Our balustrades are designed from toughened safety glass and sturdy steel fixings, so you get a strong protective barrier that meets safety standards.

The glass panels are made of tempered (toughened) or laminated glass that won’t shatter into dangerous shards if broken; they break into small, blunt pieces. Each one also meets the maximum height requirements for drops of more 600 mm.

Now, you don’t have to settle for a balustrade that makes your space feel clunky or closed in. 

5. Made from durable materials

As we’ve just mentioned, glass button balustrades are one of the safest options for your property. 

At WPS Handrails, our glass balustrades are made from marine-grade (316) stainless steel fixings and weather-resistant glass, meaning they can handle just about any weather, from harsh winds to relentless rain, without rusting or degrading.

Grade 316 stainless steel is ideal for outdoor applications, as it resists corrosion, meaning your balustrade will remain sturdy for years to come. Each one undergoes rigorous testing to make sure it meets the requirements for BS 6180:2011 UK building regulations.

Where they work best

One reason glass button balustrades are trending is due to their versatility. 

They look great in homes, providing an airy, sophisticated look you might associate with high-end modern architecture or TV shows like Grand Designs. 

Since the fixings are only visible from the outside, many customers choose them for balconies, as you can’t see the metal buttons from where you’re standing. Many people also love them on staircases, creating a floating-stair look or an open-plan feel. 

You’ll also find them in commercial properties, such as hotels, offices, and restaurants, as they evoke a classy and high-end atmosphere. A car showroom might use button-fixed glass railings on a mezzanine to keep the cars and customers visible from all angles. In offices or retail stores, these balustrades create an upmarket image and eliminate dark spots by allowing natural light to travel far. 

So, to sum up, glass button balustrades are great for:

  • Cafes/restaurants

  • Showrooms

  • Retail stores

  • Offices

  • Homes

  • Hotel lobbies and pool sides

How long does installation usually take?

A glass button balustrade should take a few hours (around half a day) to install when installed by a highly-trained professional. 

However, this depends on where it’s being installed, the conditions on the day, and the area being covered by the balustrade. A small balcony will take a lot less time to install than a large terrace or a long staircase.

For those competent with DIY projects on this scale, we offer self-installation kits for our glass balustrades. With this, you’ll have to measure and mark fixing points accurately, drill holes for the anchor bolts, attach the button fixings, and then lift and secure the glass panels onto those fixings.

Installing a glass button balustrade involves a careful eye, precise measurements, and the right structural conditions, so it’s best to wait till a dry day with no harsh wind if you’re installing it outdoors. 

Improper installation can lead to loosening over time or, in worst cases, panel failure, so we offer a professional fitting service for customers who prefer an expert on the job.

Are glass button systems safe for homes with children?

Yes! Since glass button balustrades are designed from high-quality toughened glass, they’re safe for a home with children, pets, and older family members. 

Plus, when you combine them with easy-grip handrails, it reduces the risk of falling or tripping on places like stairs and patio steps. If you’re ready to enjoy all of the benefits of glass balustrades, then we’re here to help you find the perfect match for your property. 

Our team will customise your glass balustrade to your liking and install it for you if need be. To get started on your design, contact us today on 01922 742433. Alternatively, you can fill out our contact form with what you’re looking for, and we’ll get back to you! 

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