Helping Owners in Queenscliff Apartment block upgrade their non-compliant balustrades without compromising the view.

The block of units in Queenscliff was build years ago, when compliance rules were very different. There were a number of owners all understandably with their own needs and wants. The Body Corporate was informed by the Northern Beaches Council that the balcony balustrades were way out of date and did not pass current council regulations.

 There were several owners of the individual units and all understandably had their own specific needs and wants. Together we worked out that the main objective was to find a solution that would upgrade their balcony balustrades without compromising the view or unnecessarily blocking out light to the units.

 The Lux Glass solution for this Queenscliff unit block was:

•      Remove the old non-compliant balcony balustrades

•      Replace with Frameless glass square infills

• Stainless steel top rail

• Fixed onto Face Mount Spigots

 Balcony Balustrades are not just a pretty face

 No matter what style of balustrade you choose for your home or investment property, it’s important that the balustrading meets the requirements of the current Australian building standards:

•   All balustrades must have no gaps over 100mm either between uprights or under bottom

•  Once installed, the overall height of the balustrade must be a minimum of 1000mm above the level of the floor landing

• Strong enough to handle a reasonable amount force that could be expected for a safety barrier, such as people leaning against the balustrade or strong winds.

• The specific requirements in the AS/NZS 1170.1 state that balustrades must be capable of withstanding a 0.6kN point load which is similar to a person falling onto the balustrade, and the handrail to withstand a distributed load of 0.4kN applied inward, outward, or downward, equal to a person leaning on the rail.    

• Glass balustrading must consist of Grade A Safety Glass and now requires an interlinking handrail to be installed where it is providing a barrier for a height of 1000mm or greater. Other specifications of the glass such as thickness, size and method of installation will depend on the installation environment (height, load and forces it will be subject to etc.) All glass balustrades must comply with Australian Standard AS 1288: Glass in Buildings – Selection and Installation.

 Compliant Balustrades for Strata Buildings and private homes

We are happy to visit your site to discuss a safe, compliant, aesthetically pleasing balustrade that will add value to your home:

• Bring the outside in

• Make the space more inviting and livable

• Bring more light into your home

• Add a modern touch

• Peace of mind with a safer solution

Call us for a complimentary design assessment and measure and quote.