1. Building Code Compliance (NZS 3604 and NZBC F4/AS1)
In New Zealand, stairs and balustrades must comply with the New Zealand Building Code (NZBC), specifically Clause F4: Safety from Falling. Key requirements include:
- Height of Balustrades:
- For residential buildings, balustrades must be at least 1 meter high above the floor or stair nosing.
- For commercial buildings, the height requirement is 1.1 meters.
- Gap Restrictions:
- Openings in balustrades must not allow a 100mm sphere to pass through (to prevent children from getting stuck or falling).
- Load-Bearing Capacity:
- Balustrades must withstand a horizontal load of 0.6 kN/m (kilonewtons per meter) for residential use and 1.5 kN/m for commercial use.
- Stair Dimensions:
- Rise: Maximum 190mm per step.
- Going (tread depth): Minimum 240mm per step.
- Consistency: All steps must have uniform rise and going to prevent tripping hazards.
2. Glass Balustrade Considerations
Glass balustrades are a popular choice for modern homes due to their sleek appearance and ability to maximize light and views. However, there are specific factors to consider:
Facts and Factors to Consider
- Glass Type:
- Toughened (Tempered) Glass: Required for safety. It is 4–5 times stronger than regular glass and shatters into small, blunt pieces if broken.
- Laminated Glass: Consists of two or more layers of glass with a PVB interlayer, providing additional strength and safety.
- Thickness:
- Typically, 10mm–12mm toughened glass is used for balustrades. Thicker glass (e.g., 15mm) may be required for taller or more demanding installations.
- Frameless vs. Framed:
- Frameless: Provides a minimalist look but requires precise installation and strong fixings.
- Framed: Uses metal or wood frames for added support and stability.
- Handrail Requirements:
- Glass balustrades must have a handrail if the height exceeds 1 meter. The handrail should be securely attached and easy to grip.
- Spigots or Clamps:
- Glass panels are often supported by stainless steel spigots or clamps. These must be securely fixed to the floor or structure to ensure stability.
- Edge Finishing:
- Glass edges should be polished or smoothed to prevent injury.
- Maintenance:
- Glass balustrades require regular cleaning to maintain their appearance. Toughened glass is durable but can show fingerprints and smudges.
- Compliance Documentation:
- Ensure your installer provides a Producer Statement (PS1) to confirm compliance with building codes.
3. Why Choose Royal Glass for Your Balustrade Needs?
At Royal Glass, we specialize in designing and installing high-quality glass balustrades that meet all safety standards and enhance the beauty of your home. Here’s why you should choose us:
- Expertise: We have years of experience in glass balustrade installation and compliance.
- Quality Materials: We use only toughened or laminated glass for safety and durability.
- Custom Designs: Tailored solutions to match your home’s style and requirements.
- Compliance Guarantee: We ensure all installations meet NZBC standards and provide necessary documentation.
- Referral Network: While we don’t handle stairs, we work with trusted stair specialists who can provide PS1 documentation and expert advice.
4. Call to Action
Ready to transform your home with a stunning and safe glass balustrade? Contact Royal Glass today for a free consultation!
📞 Call us now at 0800 769 254
📧 Email us at support@royalglass.co.nz
📍 Visit our showroom at 13E Paul Matthews Road, Rosedale, Auckland 0632
🌐 Explore more at www.royalglass.co.nz
Let Royal Glass guide you through the process of designing and building a balcony or balustrade that meets your needs and complies with all safety standards. Contact us today for a free consultation!
5. Additional Notes for Clients
- Stair Specialists: While we focus on balustrades, we can refer you to experienced stair specialists who can handle the stair design, construction, and PS1 documentation.
- Free Consultation: We offer a no-obligation consultation to discuss your project and provide a tailored solution.
- Compliance Assurance: All our work meets NZBC standards, giving you peace of mind.