Wire balustrades are a great option to provide safety and security while still allowing for an unobstructed view. The balustrade wire consists of vertical or horizontal wires attached to a frame and are commonly used in indoor and outdoor applications, such as decks, stairs, patios, and balconies. That said, regulations vary depending on where you live and the building you are working on. Wire balustrades are generally required to meet specific safety standards like any other type of railing. According to UK Building Regulations, "Any barrier intended to protect people from falling a distance which could cause personal injury must be constructed so that it cannot be easily climbed."
In essence, wire balustrades installed in areas with a risk of falling, such as stairs or balconies, must be designed so they cannot be easily climbed. The spacing between the wires must be no more than 100mm (about 4 inches) to prevent a person from being able to put their foot or head through the opening. In addition, the wire balustrade must support a weight of at least 0.36 kN/m (about 175 pounds per linear foot). The wire must also be adequately tensioned so it can't break or sag over time.
The difference between domestic and commercial height regulations
For domestic use, there are no height restrictions for wire balustrades. However, for commercial use, the height of the barrier must be at least 950mm (about 3.1 feet). The wire should be properly secured so it can't be easily pulled loose. This is especially important if the wire balustrade is being installed in an area where some small children or animals could potentially get tangled in the wires.
If you're installing a wire balustrade on a deck or balcony, additional requirements must be met to ensure the safety of those using it. For example, the posts or columns that support the balustrade must be securely fastened to the deck or balcony. And, if it is more than 30 inches (76 cm) above the ground, it must be equipped with a mid rail to provide additional support.
What are some of the key advantages of Balustrade Wire?
Wire Balustrades can be a great way to combine safety with security and style. Yet it's essential to ensure they are correctly installed and meet all the necessary safety requirements. Assuming that your wire balustrade meets all of these criteria, it should comply with most building regulations. However, it's always best to check with your local authorities to be sure. They may have specific requirements that need to be met in your area. With good research and planning, you can be sure that your wire balustrade meets all the necessary building regulations.
Here at Rope Services Limited, we can provide you with everything you need to install a wire balustrade that meets all the required safety standards. We offer a wide range of high-quality wire rope products that are perfect for indoor and outdoor applications. We also provide a variety of fittings and hardware to help you create a secure and stylish wire balustrade.
Contact us today to learn more about our products and services. We would be happy to help you select the right wire rope and fittings for your project.
There are many different types of rope balustrade, and the regulations for each type can vary. Generally, the regulations will state that a wire balustrade must be able to withstand a certain amount of force, to prevent falls and injuries. That said, the overall strength of a wire balustrade is usually determined by the size and type of wire used, as well as the spacing between the wires. In some cases, a metal frame may also be required to provide extra support.
Picking the Correct Balustrade Wire - Research is critical
With regards to the current regulations, it's always important to check with your local council, as requirements will vary from one location to another. You also need to ensure any wire balustrade you install meets relevant safety standards. In the UK, these are set out in the Building Regulations (part K), which specify the dimensions and construction of guardrails and balustrades. That said, we can provide some guidance regarding an ideal height and thickness for residential projects.
- A guard or a balustrade must be fitted to an edge where there is a drop of more than 600mm.
- The height of the handrail must be a minimum of 900mm for all areas in internal residential applications.
- The height of the handrail must be a minimum of 900mm for stairs and ramps in external residential and commercial applications and a minimum of 1100mm for other areas (like balconies or floor edges).
- You should not be able to pass a 100mm sphere between any gaps of the wire balustrade.
- A minimum of 4mm diameter steel wire rope must be used for wire infill.
Can the wire run around corners?
Whilst it is possible (in some instances), we do not recommend running wire around large corners because it's difficult to maintain the necessary tension. It's better to start a new run at a corner junction because you will not compromise security or safety.
What is the best rope for the job?
We provide grade AISI 316 stainless steel rope and stainless steel cable, which complies with EN12385 and EN10264 standards, so you can be reassured of quality. One of the main advantages is its corrosion resistance, and AISI 316 stainless steel is the best you can buy, ensuring your cable balustrade will last for many years.
Is it possible to install a steel wire rope balustrade yourself?
You will find plenty of helpful information online, and with the right products, it's definitely possible to install a steel wire rope balustrade, however, it depends on your experience and confidence. In many cases, the key aspect of a balustrade is to provide optimum safety. Therefore, it's always best to consult with a professional installer so that you can meet all of the necessary safety standards.
Why buy your balustrade wire & fittings from Rope Services Direct?
We are the UK's leading supplier of rope balustrade fittings, and our products are manufactured to the highest possible standards. We also have a team of highly experienced professionals who can offer advice and support when it comes to selecting the right product for your needs. We specialize in galvanized steel and stainless steel rope and can custom make any assembly to your requirements, thanks to our own workshop and industrial pressing facilities. To learn more about us and how we can help you, please call 01384 78004.
This short video shows the majority of fittings available for all types of barriers and balustrading.