Glass Balustrade Installation: The Complete Guide

Installing glass balustrade can be an ideal way to add safety and style to an existing deck, walkway or other areas of your garden. A balustrade is a barrier that is fitted between vertical posts or fixings. It is primarily a safety feature and can be very useful in certain areas of the garden, such as around ponds, pools and water features, on raised decking and walkways, or areas where there is a sudden drop in the garden.

Balustrades can be made of a number of different materials. Glass balustrades are great for providing the safety you need without blocking out light or views. They also look sleek and stylish and can be an ideal modern option with stainless steel posts.

Tools & Materials Needed to Install a Glass Balustrade

Before you get to the installation itself, it’s important to gather the right tools and materials for the job.

Tools for installing a glass balustrade will generally include:

• Tape measure
• Spirit level
• Drill
• Spanners
• Rubber mallet
• Pencil
• Masking tape

Components and materials for installing a glass balustrade will include:

• Glass panels
• Posts
• Glass clamps
• Fixings

Glass Balustrade Installation – a Step-by-Step Guide

Installing a glass balustrade is relatively simple, but it’s important to do so correctly. Here, we will explain how to fit glass balustrade with easy-to-follow instructions.

1. Preparation and Planning

1. Clean and measure the area where the balustrade is to be installed.
2. Determine even post spacing – the length between each space will be determined by the length of the glass panels, with extra space built in for the post itself and the fixings. Precision is essential, both for stability and the overall look of your balustrade.
3. Mark the centre points of the posts with pencil or masking tape.

2. Fixing

1. Drill pilot holes for the posts. The depth and width needed will be based on the material you are attaching the posts to (such as wood, concrete, brick or metal) and the specific screws or bolts you are using.
2. Attach the posts loosely at first. Ensure that they are vertical using a spirit level (by ensuring that the bubble is in the middle of the two lines), laser level or plumb line. Make sure that the spacings are right and that the glass panels fit correctly between the posts.
3. If everything is correct, tighten the screws or bolts to affix the post to the surface. Check the alignments and spacings again.

3. Glass Fitting

1. Attach the glass clamps to the posts. The posts will usually have pre-drilled holes to help you. Attach the clamps securely with suitable screws or bolts. The front part of the clamp will usually have a rubber gasket or padding that the glass panel slides into.
2. When the clamps are attached, slide the glass panel into place between the two posts. It is generally best to do this with two people, to help support and guide the panel into place. Suction cups can also be used to hold the panel, and support blocks can hold it in place if a gap is required between the panel and base surface.
3. Tighten the clamps evenly. Do this incrementally and do not over-tighten.

4. Final Checks

1. Carefully examine the entire balustrade and check that everything is tight and aligned, and that there is no damage. 
2. Clean the glass with warm soapy water or a mild water and vinegar solution. You may want to use a squeegee for streak-free results.

Top Tips for Installing a Glass Balustrade

Installing glass panels and stainless steel balustrades is a relatively simple process, but you might want to opt for professional installation if you are not confident in your abilities.

If you do choose the DIY route, here are some handy tips to help ensure that you get the best results:

1. Check building regulations.
2. Ensure that the area is suitable and that the surface you are attaching the posts to is sturdy and secure.
3. Make your measurements as accurately as you can and double-check everything.
4. Ensure that you have the right amount of panels, posts and other components.
5. Gather all the tools you will need beforehand.
6. Wear proper safety equipment, including safety goggles.
7. Take account of clearance gaps, building in space for the posts and clamps.
8. Use the proper fixings (ideally stainless steel).
9. Use suitable glass – typically safety glass panels that are specifically designed for this purpose.
10. Install the posts loosely first and check again that everything fits properly.
11. Use a plumb line or spirit level to ensure that everything is level, both horizontally and vertically.
12. Learn how to fit glass balustrade clamps firmly but incrementally. Do not over-tighten or you could crack the glass.
13. Lower the glass panels into place slowly, preferably with more than one person. Use support blocks if needed to ensure that they are at the right level before tightening the clamps.
14. Recheck everything and look for any damage before considering the installation is complete.

Get Your Quality Glass Balustrade Today

If you are thinking of making it a DIY project, it’s important to make sure that you know how to install a glass balustrade. However, it’s also vital that you have the right materials and components for your glass balustrade installation.

Whether you’re looking to hire a professional or do it yourself, explore Dino Decking’s full product range for the best in balustrade options. We offer a number of different types of balustrades, including composite panels, steel frames and glass balustrade, as well as all the fixings and components you need.

Glass Balustrade Installation FAQs

Can you install a glass balustrade yourself?

The short answer is yes: if you follow these instructions and take the relevant safety precautions, you can install a glass balustrade yourself. You can also hire a professional if you aren’t confident though.

What are the building regulations for glass balustrades in the UK?

You should always check your local building regulations, but in general, typical heights must be at least 900mm for internal stairs and landings, while external ones need to be at least 1,100mm high. Building regulations may also require glass balustrades to be made of suitable safety glass.

How much is it to install a glass balustrade?

According to MyBuilder, you can expect glass railing installations to cost between £200 and £600 per linear metre, including materials and professional installation. The costs can vary widely depending on the type of balustrade (with frameless options typically costing more), thickness of glass, and complexity of the installation.