Glass balustrades are an increasingly popular choice amongst architects and designers who wish to create a sleek, modern aesthetic for both interior and exterior spaces alike. They provide unobstructed views and allow light to flow freely while adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to any setting. However, the success of a glass balustrade installation is largely dependent on the quality of the spigots that hold the glass panels securely in place. In this blog post, we will provide you with a complete guide to glass balustrade spigots, helping you to choose the right type of spigot to meet your specific needs.
What Are Glass Balustrade Spigots?
Glass Balustrade Spigots are an essential component of frameless glass balustrades. They are stainless steel posts which use a special base plate, fixing system and clamp to secure the panels of glass together. Spigots come in a variety of sizes, styles and finishes to suit individual requirements – they can also be used for indoor or outdoor applications. Spigots provide safety and aesthetic appeal to any exterior space while also creating an uninterrupted view of the surrounding landscape. In addition, spigots require minimal maintenance ensuring your balustrade will remain looking as beautiful as it did on day one!
Types Of Glass Balustrade Spigots
There are several types of glass balustrade spigots available for purchase, each one designed to integrate seamlessly into a specific type of installation. For example, “core-drilled spigots” are ideal for applications that involve drilling a hole through the surface to anchor the spigot in place, while “base-plated spigots” are better suited for installations that require mounting the spigot onto a solid surface that doesn’t require drilling.
Materials Used in Glass Balustrade Spigots
Glass balustrade spigots are made using various materials, including stainless steel, aluminium, and brass. Stainless steel is the most popular choice due to its durability, resistance to corrosion, and low maintenance requirements. Aluminium is also an excellent choice, due to its affordability, lightweight construction, and high-strength properties. Brass is often used for ornamental balustrade systems due to its ability to be polished to a high shine and is highly resistant to corrosion.
Finishes
Spigots are available in a wide range of finishes to suit your desired aesthetic. Polished stainless steel is the most popular due to its modern and sleek appearance, and is easy to maintain. Other finishes include brushed stainless steel, black anodised, and powder-coated options in various colours.
Glass Thickness
Different types of glass balustrade spigots are designed to support different thicknesses of glass panels, depending on their intended use. Heavy-duty glass balustrade spigots can support larger panels of 15mm to 21.5mm thickness with ease. There are also spigots designed to support thinner glass panels, usually up to 12mm in thickness. Carefully evaluate the intended usage of the spigots before selecting the glass thickness they can support.
Installation
When it comes to the installation of glass balustrade spigots, there are important factors that must be considered to ensure safety and stability. One of these factors is the distance between spigots, which must be calculated based on the thickness of the glass panels and the type of installation. The height of the balustrade must also be taken into account, as it affects the stability and safety of the system. Furthermore, these spigots must be installed on a stable base; failure to do so can result in the glass panels becoming unstable and potentially dangerous. Always seek the assistance of a professional installer to ensure proper installation.
Conclusion
Glass balustrades can add a unique touch of contemporary elegance and sophistication to any space. The key to a successful installation is choosing the best spigots for your needs. Consider the type of installation, the materials used, the glass thickness, and the installation process when choosing a spigot. With the right components and professional installation, you can create a sleek, modern, and safe environment that will impress all who visit.
