Have you considered glass railing for your new deck? People tend to have a lot of questions at the mention of glass railings. “Will they break?” “Will they get too dirty?” “Are they safe for children?” “How expensive are they?” This article is meant to answer these questions and give you a better idea if glass railing might be right for you!
Pros of Glass Railing
Let’s begin with all the positives! Why are glass railings becoming more popular? Let’s take a look at some of the reasons.
1. Unobstructed Views
Glass railings afford a fabulous view from your deck! Without traditional balusters blocking your line of sight, the scenery beyond is wide open to enjoy.
2. Unique, Modern, Stylish, Elegant
A glass railing speaks elegance and sophistication. If you are looking to dress up your new deck in a unique but beautiful way, glass railing might just be the perfect addition to your design.
3. Wind Barrier
Unlike traditional railings with balusters, glass railing will block some of the wind around your deck. If you live in a windy area, do not enjoy spending time outside in windy weather, or have items on your deck that are better left undisturbed by high gusts of wind, having glass railing may be just what you need.
4. More Light
Without balusters to block sunlight, your deck will have a lighter and brighter atmosphere. Also, the greater amount of light and open view will often make a small deck feel larger than it is.
5. Resistant to Decay
Glass railings are made with aluminum frames and glass infill panels. Both aluminum and glass will not rust or decay over time, making them a great long-term option for deck owners.
Cons of Glass Railing
1. Expense
It is true that glass railing does cost more than aluminum, vinyl, or other railing options, sometimes up to double the amount. Although glass railing does offer many benefits, the expense may be a deterrent for some people.
2. Frequent Cleaning
While it is true that glass railings are low maintenance when it comes to repairs and replacements, they do require more cleaning. Glass can get dirty pretty quickly! To keep the glass sparkling, it must be wiped down often. Cleaning your glass will be a bigger chore if your deck is near ground level since it will be easier for dirt and other debris to blow onto the glass.
3. Less Privacy
If privacy is important to you while you relax on your deck, glass railing is not the best option! Glass railing affords more of a view rather than less, so choose from the many other privacy railing options available.
4. Blocks the Breeze
Some people may appreciate blocked wind, while others do not. If you enjoy the cooling breeze during the hot summer, glass railing may not be the best option. Glass railing will partially block the wind. If you like the idea of glass railing but need a way to cool your deck, consider a deck roof or pergola to provide some extra shade!
What is the Best Way to Clean Glass Railing?
Cleaning your glass railing is pretty simple! Using a soft cloth that won’t scratch your glass, wipe down your glass daily or as often as you notice buildup of dirt. Once a week or so, you can use a glass cleaning solution to wipe your glass. It is also possible to buy a spray cleaner that attaches to the end of your hose.
Glass railings are not hard to keep clean if you are willing to spend the time to wipe them down before dirt builds up too thickly! Also, if you have children that will be playing on the deck, be prepared to have smudges and fingerprints to wipe off also.
Are Glass Railings Safe?
This is a crucial question to answer, as safety is of utmost importance when enjoying your deck! The glass used in railings is tempered, which means it is actually four times as strong as other types of glass and far less likely to break from high forces. If for some very rare reason a piece of tempered glass was to break, it would not break into tiny, sharp pieces like other glass would. With all of this being said, you do not need to worry that your glass railing might break from toys, pets, children, or the elements.
Additionally, glass railing is nearly impossible for children to climb and has no gaps where children could get stuck or fall through, making it a very safe option for families of all ages.
In conclusion, glass railings afford some amazing benefits if the price is right for you! For more information on glass railings or to get a quote on having it installed, contact our team at Wymore Deck and Fence!
