8 Benefits of Glass Deck Railings

The Ultimate Guide to Using Glass for Deck Railings 

Today’s decks, patios, pool sides and rooftop restaurants have evolved into some of the most desirable spaces in which to spend time. Whether in a home, while on holiday or at your place of business, glass deck railings boost the appeal of an outdoor space. They transform paint-peeled pickets and rusted metal railings, elevating them into expansive and bright viewpoints.

Glass panels are not just for outside spaces. Interior glass panels, staircases, railings and bannisters offer a contemporary design aesthetic while maximizing visual appeal.

Read on to see why tempered glass deck railings outshine their competitors.

Glass Deck Railing Types

What is a tempered glass railing?

Tempered glass is up to five times stronger than normal glass. The tempering process hardens the glass panel using heat, which makes the glass more resistant to shattering and damage. Once properly edged and polished, the panels are safe to handle, and on the rare occasion where breakage occurs, the glass breaks into small pieces, minimizing injury.

With so many choices, deciding which glass railings best suits your needs is challenging. Here are some glass railing system descriptions to help narrow down which option best fits your property.

Framed Glass Deck Railings

One of the most popular styles of glass railings, this system features a customizable glass panel secured with an aluminum frame. 

Frameless Glass Deck Railings

Frameless glass deck railing systems allow an unimpeded view with no bordering frame to conceal your stunning vista. They are ideal for rooftop terraces, verandas, decks and balconies where optimizing views is paramount. 

8 Reasons to Choose Glass Railings

Imagine lounging on your deck, sipping your morning cup of coffee and relaxing while taking in the unobstructed views. Glass railings are a great choice for enhancing your outdoor space and realizing its full potential. If a perfectly framed view doesn’t convince you to choose glass, here are seven more reasons that might sway you.

• Maximize View – Frameless glass deck railings are one of the many selections available to increase the visual appeal of your home or business. Unobtrusive clear glass panel deck railings allow light through, keep the wind out and highlight the scenery. They create an open and inviting feeling while you spend time on your balcony or veranda.
• Increase Property Value – Transparent glass railings open up a space, giving the impression the area is bigger than it seems. The classic clean lines are appealing to buyers and can optimize selling potential.
• Durability – While your first impression of glass may focus on its fragility, glass railings are quite the opposite. Constructed of thick tempered glass and tested to withstand a wide range of impacts, tempered glass is incredibly durable.
• Weather Protection – Tempered glass is shatterproof and tested to perform in high winds and under heavy snow and rain. 
• Low Maintenance – Want a railing resistant to rust, rot and corrosion? With their quick installation, topless glass railings may be the choice for you. They are virtually maintenance-free, with no painting, staining or regular panel replacement requirements. An occasional cleaning is all that’s needed to keep your view in tip-top shape.
• Safety – Glass railings provide a safe barrier to kids, pets and the easily distracted from dangerous falls or private areas. Are you a pool owner? Then, the B.C. Guidelines for Pool Design legally require a pool enclosure. Explore the benefits of year-round comfort with Pacific Awnings pool domes.
• Eco-Friendly – Glass is inert, stands the test of time, and is recyclable, making it one of the most eco-friendly materials to build a deck railing from 
• Versatility – Easily customizable, glass railings come in a range of tints, transparency levels, shapes and sizes. Choosing a style that blends seamlessly with your home’s style is a breeze.

Though practically invisible, glass panel deck railings also offer privacy. If you live in a condo, apartment, or highly populated city, consider adding an opaque treatment or frosting that will still allow in light while not compromising privacy.

Are you still wondering if glass deck railings are right for you? Pacific Awnings is happy to answer whatever’s on your mind.

Disadvantages of Glass Deck Railings 

Despite the many benefits of using glass for deck railings, a few considerations remain:

Installation Costs

Glass for deck railings is often the most expensive deck railing option available. 

Regular Cleaning Required

Susceptible to smudges and fingerprints, glass panels will need to be cleaned on a regular basis to maintain that perfect view.

If a glass railing isn’t the right choice for your deck, no problem. Pacific Awnings has a system that will meet your needs. Explore our blog, ‘Aluminum Railing Designs: Customizing Your Railing System For Your Property’, for more information. 

Pacific Awnings – Your Best Choice For Glass Deck Railings

With showrooms in Victoria and Nanaimo, British Columbia, Pacific Awnings has happily serviced Vancouver Island since 1991. 

Our glass railings offer protection from the sun, rain and wind while framing your stunning view. With a reputation built on honesty, integrity, superior products and services, Pacific Awning is your go-to expert for creating an outdoor living space for all seasons without compromising privacy. 

Enhance your beautiful view with a glass deck railing today. Pacific Awnings is waiting to hear from you.