Balustrades / Railings
Glass railings typically use tempered glass, laminated glass, or tempered laminated glass for safety and durability. The choice depends on the application, building codes, and design preferences. Bird Friendly for railings is also available.
Balustrades / Railings
Thompson Innovative Glass manufactures laminated and tempered laminated glass for use within balustrades and railings. Glass is made to comply with ASTM E2353 which is the standard for glass used in railings in the United States and to meet the International Code Council, International Building Code of 2015 for railings.
Key Features of Balustrade Glass
Bird-friendly glass options are also available for glass railings and balustrades.
Frequently Asked Questions About Balustrades / Railings
What types of glass are used in railings?
Glass railings typically use tempered glass, laminated glass, or tempered laminated glass for safety and durability. The choice depends on the application, building codes, and design preferences.
What is the difference between tempered glass and laminated glass for railings?
- Tempered glass: Heat-treated to be 4-5 times stronger than regular glass. If broken, it shatters into small, less harmful pieces.
- Laminated glass: Made of two glass layers with an interlayer (PVB or Ionoplast) that holds the glass together if broken, preventing dangerous shards from falling.
- Tempered laminated glass: A combination of both, providing maximum strength and safety.
What thickness of glass is used for railings?
Common thicknesses include:
10mm (3/8") – Residential applications with handrails
12mm (1/2") – Standard for most railing systems
15mm (5/8") or 19mm (3/4") – Frameless and high-load applications
Can glass railings be tinted or decorated?
Yes! Glass railings can be customized with:
- Tinted glass (gray, bronze, blue, green, etc.)
- Frosted or etched designs for privacy
- Patterned or printed glass for decorative appeal
Thompson Innovative Glass has a wide range of options.
Can birds collide with glass railings?
Yes, birds may not see clear glass railings. Thompson Innovative Glass has numerous options of Bird Friendly glass that can be used in railing applications.