This is an article about glass railings. Glass railing is a kind of railing that is commonly used now, because of its stylish appearance, it is favored by more and more homes. But when it comes to installing deck railing by yourself, many people think it is difficult to achieve, thinking that cement and concrete should be used.
In fact, we install glass deck railings very easily. In this article, we provide steps for two installation methods of deck glass railing, framed glass railing and frameless glass railing. We guide you step-by-step to install glass railing. Want to learn more about how to install glass railings? Read on!
Types of Glass Railings
The most common types of deck glass railings are framed glass railings and frameless glass railings. Both types of railing allow for unobstructed views.
Continuous Top Railing
Continuous top railings: Generally, stainless steel rails are installed on the top and bottom of the railings, and the glass panels are embedded in the rails.
Frameless Glass Railing
Frameless Glass Railing: Only need to install glass railing handrail brackets at the bottom of the railing to fix the glass panels, and then install glass clamps between two adjacent panels. Frameless glass balustrades capture more of the view.
Install stainless steel rail glass railing for decks
Estimated time spent: approximately 1 hour
1.Prepare materials and tools
-Materials:
glass panel
glass panel deck railing
stainless steel rails
glass railing brackets
column glass spigots
screws and other fasteners
-Tools:
electric drill
chop saw
rope
tape measure
marker pen
2.Inspection of individual material components
Make sure all components are intact and ensure that all edges of the glass are polished to prevent anyone from being cut.
3.Mark the position of the glass railing bracket
The materials and tools are all ready, let’s get started. Clean the deck first, according to the design you envisioned, determine the distance between the the fascia brackets according to the length of each face part, and mark the position of each railing brackets for the next step to install the fascia brackets.
4.Install the fascia brackets on deck
Place the pre-prepared the fascia brackets on the marked positions. Take the electric drill and drill the threaded holes in the deck. (Tips: pilot hole diameter:1/4 inch).
Start by installing the uprights at the ends of the railing. This next step is very important, after installing the brackets on both sides, then pull another rope between the two brackets. This action is to ensure that all the brackets that will be installed are of the same height.
5.Install the top handrail bracket
Use a chainsaw to cut the rail handrail to the appropriate length, then place the top rail on the posts and brackets, and install the screws. Once installed, use the ratchet straps to pull the top rails Use a tape measure to hold the splice panels and screws together.
6.Install the bottom rail and top rail filler
How to attach rails to a deck
6.1. On each connected column, mark the appropriate guide rail installation mark symbol, and install the connector of the bottom guide rail with screws.
6.2 Install the bottom guide rail at the connector and tighten it with screws.
6.3 Measure the distance between the posts, cut the top rail filler (used to snap into the glass panel) and the bottom rail.
6.4. Install the top rail filler (used to snap into the glass panel) and the bottom rail. Secure the bottom rail with screws at both ends of the rail.
7.Install the glass panels for deck railing
There is only one step left to success. Clean the glass: Clean the top and bottom of the glass with glass cleaner before inserting into the rails.
Apply liquid soap to the top and bottom of the glass, sides, and grip the sides of the glass panel. Install with the top of the glass panel inserted into the top rail, making sure to push the glass all the way up into the channel, then insert the bottom of the glass into the bottom rail and center the panel between the posts to adjust the glass laterally. Continue this process until all panels are installed.
How to install glass railing: FAQ
Learn more about glass railings here.
Q1: Is glass railings strong?
A:Glass railing is very strong.I’ve kicked it as hard as I can in the middle of the panel and it did no damage.
Q2:Are frameless glass railings safe?
A:Yes, frameless glass railings are considered to be safe, provided that they are installed correctly and adhere to all local building codes. The glass panels should be made of tempered safety glass and the railing should be properly supported by structural posts and secured with heavy-duty fasteners. Additionally, the railing should be regularly inspected to ensure that it is in good condition.
Q3:What are the top benefits of glass railing?
A:Elegant Aesthetic: Glass panel railings can provide a modern and elegant look to any home or business. They can be used to create a stunning view of the outdoors while still providing safety and security.
Durability: Glass railings are extremely durable and can last for many years with minimal maintenance. This makes them a great long-term investment.
Safety: Glass railings are much safer than traditional railings due to the fact that they do not have any sharp edges or posts. This makes them ideal for households with children or pets.
Versatility: Glass railings can be used in a variety of applications, both indoors and outdoors. They are also available in a variety of styles, sizes, and colors, so you can find the perfect fit for your space.
Low Maintenance: Glass railings require very little maintenance, as they don’t require any staining or painting. Cleaning is easy and can be done with a mild detergent and glass cleaner.
Cleaning of glass railing system for decks
Many people think that glass railings are difficult to clean, but this is a wrong idea. The difficulty of cleaning glass railings lies only in the glass panels. For glass panels, we can use soapy water or special glass detergent to clean.
Dip a sponge or brush into the soap solution and apply to the glass surface, then gently scrub the entire glass surface. Including corners and edges. For the outer glass plate that is difficult to clean, we can buy a long-handled hand brush for glass cleaning in the store, so that the outer glass can be easily cleaned.
Summary of installing glass railing
Glass railings are indeed aesthetically pleasing and offer more views than ordinary stainless steel balustrades. If you have already purchased the material of glass railings, then after reading our article, you will definitely gain something.