Types of safety glass used for glass balustrades

The most significant factor in the safety of glass balustrades is the type of glass used to make them. UK building regulations specify that toughened or toughened laminated glass are the two types of glass that are suitable for constructing balustrades.

Hard at work this morning, our in-house glass processing team are passionate about the finish of our laminated glass.

Laminate glass

Laminated glass is a safety glass. Laminated glass consists of 2 pieces of toughened glass held together by an extremely strong interlayer. When damaged the glass shatters but remains in one piece meaning you do not gain a void in your area before replacing the panel.

What is EVA?

At SHS we use EVA interlayer rather than PVB. EVA is quickly becoming a viable alternative to PVB and in many cases surpasses the performance of PVB.

Why use EVA over PVB?

• Resistance to moisture, perfect for external glass and humid areas.
• High shear strength, even at higher temperatures.

Why opt for laminate glass?

We recommend laminated glass in all of our balustrade systems that do not have a handrail for building regulation compliance. We also advise going that extra mile when in public areas and installing at heights.

Toughened glass

Toughened glass goes through a process called tempering where the glass is heated and quenched – cooled quickly. Quenching locks tension into the core of the glass resulting in a stronger glass. Even in the rare occasion of breaking, toughened safety glass does not shatter as conventional glass does.

All our glass has radius edges and comes in bespoke sizes, many colours and thicknesses to suit your requirements.

Glass before being processed.

 Glass after being processed.

Glass balustrades are a long-term investment for domestic and commercial projects.

Professionally installed glass balustrades that are compliant with building regulations are incredibly safe, long-lasting and child friendly. Glass balustrades can be designed with very small gaps which make it impossible for little hands and legs to slip through or get stuck in.

Glass also offers better visibility, for example, you will be able to clearly see your young children running up and down the staircases or playing outside in the decking area.

We are compliant with current building control requirements. All of our glass panels are British Safety Stamped. Explore our full range of SHS glass balustrades and contact us with any questions.