Australians are known for their love of the outdoors, and with good reason. A unique combination of favourable, warm weather, picturesque landscapes, and a cultural emphasis on socialising, leisure and health creates the perfect setting for outdoor fun. For many locals, this means spending time on the beach or even in their own backyards, enjoying a BBQ with good company.
However, if you live in an apartment in the city, then your balcony may be your only way of getting your daily outdoor fix. If this is the case, then it may be time to invest in the glass balustrades Melbourne locals are adding to their homes.
Defining the Concept of Glass Balustrade
In Australia, all elevated structures higher than 1m must have a safety barrier installed. The main goal with this is to prevent accidental slip and fall injuries, especially in children and pets who may always remember to “mind the edge.” For the most part, this applies to elevated decks, staircases, and balconies. Barriers must typically be composed of vertical posts (the balusters) and handrails on top for support.
Since balustrades are mandatory, they must meet the regulated Australian Standards AS 1170.1 and AS 1288. This is to ensure that the prescribed height and strength are met. While balustrades can be made of various materials such as timber and metal, glass remains a popular go-to choice for locals.
Glass balustrades are designed using laminated or toughened safety glass and usually vary between 10 and 15mm, depending on where they’re installed. Floor-mounted pegs (also called spigots) are used to create a seamless look. Posts and rails can vary between stainless steel and aluminium and are styled to create a robust support structure without blocking your view of the surrounding area.
Balconies can be Stylish
Anyone living in an apartment with an outdoor balcony will agree that these spaces often double as a second living room. Depending on where you live and what your work schedule is like, your balcony may easily be your go-to space for a bit of relaxation and downtime.
It’s not uncommon for apartment dwellers to kit out their balconies with comfy furniture, a small BBQ and a mini container garden. If this is your set-up, it may be time to upgrade a closed-off old-fashioned balcony to a transparent glass balustrade. Keep reading to find out why.
Creates an Unobstructed View
One of the more prominent reasons to opt for glass as your material of choice is its transparency. This is especially perfect if you have an apartment overlooking one of Australia’s many picturesque views. Depending on your personal preference, you may find a bustling cityscape as alluring as an ocean view, so why not make it more visible in your space?
Glass balustrades work well to create a flowing and seamless transition between the natural view and your indoor living space. Removing a timber or metal barrier also enhances the illusion of space on your balcony.
Enhances Natural Light and Improves Airflow
If you live in the city, then you will know all too well that homes and apartment buildings are built very close together. This type of urban dense set-up means that apartments are left with dark interiors and shadowed balconies.
Adding a traditional timber or metal balustrade into the mix reduces the light and air coming into the space, and may leave you thinking of your balcony as a dead spot. Switching to a glass balustrade will not only increase the natural light that comes into the space but also improve the airflow. In addition to making your balcony more inviting, it’s also excellent for your mini garden.
Glass is Highly Durable
It’s no secret that the harsh Australian climate is tough on all types of building materials. Your timber balcony is undoubtedly battered by everything from summer rains to scorching UV rays. This not only warps and damages timber but can also lead to corrosion on iron and metal components.
Glass, on the other hand, can’t rust or warp and isn’t prone to rotting in moist climates. You also won’t have to worry about termite damage. More good news is that glass is chemically inert to the high levels of salt found in coastal air.
This means that opting for a glass balustrade on your balcony won’t lead to corrosion or degradation over time. Keeping your glass balustrade clean is as simple as wiping it down or using a very mild detergent to suck up dust and debris. There’s no need for oiling or repainting. Your glass balustrade will look shiny and stylish for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Choosing to add a stylish glass balustrade to your apartment balcony should be a no-brainer. Not only will you create an unobstructed view, but you will instantly add a touch of luxury and style to your outdoor space, no matter how small it is. Glass balustrades are low maintenance and enhance the natural light and ventilation on your balcony, which is good for you and any pets or plants that spend time on the balcony!
Laila Azzahra is a professional writer and blogger that loves to write about technology, business, entertainment, science, and health.