How Thick Should Glass Railings Be?

How Thick Should Glass Railings Be?

Glass railings have become the most popular option for modern architecture  whether it is framed or frameless, it gives your home an aesthetic or enlightened vibe while providing safety and protection to your terrace, stairs or offices. 


Whenever someone install glass railings in their homes, a question always arises in their mind i.e. How thick should glass railings be? So, if you are also thinking about installing glass railings into your homes, hence it is important to understand the safety and thickness of it, before buying or installing. 


To find the right thickness of glass railings that you need for your home or offices, it is necessary to read all the types and regulations of it to get the desired results.  In this blog we’ll discuss the factors, recommended thickness and benefits of choosing the right glass railings. 


Why Does Glass Thickness Matter for Railings?

Glass thickness generally affects durability and your safety considerations . When you choose less thickened glass especially for high traffic areas such as balconies, stairs or offices, there is a high risk of glass breakage due to maximum load or less durability over time. So always keep it in your mind when you choose or buy glass railings, do not skimp on glass thickness just because of high cost. Choosing the right thick glass, last longer your railings durability and also protect your glass from breakage by large load bearing ability or environmental factors. If you’re not sure about that “ what type of glass railing is best? ” then read our article for the clearance of your mind and meet the requirements. 


Required Thickness for Glass Railing Applications


Residential Glass Railings: 

For residential purposes, glass railing thickness depends on railing selection and locations for installation. Framed glass railings typically range between 10mm to 12mm, while frameless designs need thicker glass, generally 15mm to 19mm, for added strength. if you’re installing glass railings in stairways or balconies then choose higher thickness glass which is suitable for safety and security purposes. 

Commercial Glass Railings: 

Commercial sites always require higher thick glass railings due to large traffic areas. Use laminate or tempered glass with ideal thickness at least 15-19 mm (5/8"–3/4"), to ensure high durability and public safety standards and also use framed glass railings for added strength to the railings and extra protection. 

Influencing Factors on Thickness of Glass Railings: 

Thickness of glass railing panels is influenced by some factors such as local building codes, safety requirements, and the type of glass used. For instance, tempered glass, best for its strength ability, typically ranges from 10mm to 15mm, while laminated glass, with its added layer to meet protection requirements best for high traffic areas and balconies , ranges from 12mm to 15mm or more. These considerations, with the specific installing location, guaranteed the right balance between safety and durability. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Choosing Glass Thickness

 1. Ignore the environmental factors such as weather or wind, when installing glass railing on outside or doors, also invest your money again and again. 

2. Choosing the less thicker glass just to save money or cost. It doesn’t provide you with desired safety and durability of glass railing. 

3. Not hiring a professional installer for railings is also a big mistake people always make. Here is a high risk for your safety concerns such as breakage of glass in handling or after installing. 


Ready to upgrade or transform your railings with high durability or thick glass. Contact RF Transparent for the best guide in choosing the right glass railing panels according to your needs and requirements.


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