Glass Railing for Decks
Glass railing for decks can play a key role in creating a stunning and functional outdoor living space. If maximizing your view is the goal, glass panels might be the first option that comes to mind—but have you considered glass slats?
With glass slats, you still get the unobstructed view you want complemented with a high-end look. Join us as we dive into why you should consider glass slats as an alternative option from glass panels.
Differences Between Glass Slats and Glass Panels
Visual Appeal
If you’re wanting to maximize your surrounding scenery, glass panels are a fantastic choice, especially for those who have waterfront or scenic views. Panels provide a modern, sleek look to any backyard deck and balcony setting.
On the other hand, glass slats present a modern, architectural look that complements various design styles — from rustic to contemporary or traditional — while still offering clear views of the surroundings.
With our Fairway Railing Collection, you can choose between two different materials– aluminum and composite. The design versatility will meet nearly any aesthetic you’re looking to achieve.
Plus, by choosing glass slats, you can combine different infills to customize your deck even more – allowing for areas with unobstructed views and areas with more privacy, making your deck more versatile.
Cost
If trying to decide between glass panels or slats for your project and cost is an important factor, it’s worth considering the installation costs associated with each option.
Glass panels are generally more expensive due to their size and thicker glass needed for structural integrity. Additionally, specialized labor and equipment are necessary for the installation, which can increase the installation cost. Glass panels are more cumbersome and fragile to ship, which can cause an increase in shipping costs.
Replacement costs for a glass panel are significantly more expensive due to all the reasons stated above. If you do get a crack or break in your glass panel, it’s important to reach out to your contractor for the best next steps, so there aren’t any prolonged safety concerns.
In contrast, slats are smaller, require less material, and therefore are a less expensive option. Due to their smaller size, they are easier to handle and have the potential to be installed by a DIY-er. If you choose to install them yourself, this will help reduce the installation fees. In fact, all our railing comes in kits with everything you need for installation in the box – top rail, bottom rail, hardware, and the glass slats.
Easier Installation
The installation process for glass panels compared to glass slats involves different considerations and methods. Here are some of the key differences.
Firstly, the installation site must be meticulously prepared to ensure it can handle the weight and size of the glass panels. Then comes the mounting process this involves channels or clamps that are surface-mounted or installed into the deck structure. These systems must be aligned precisely so the panels fit perfectly. Additionally, there are crucial safety protocols to prevent injury and ensure the structure is secure.
Once the panels are in place, they may require sealing to prevent moisture, and edges and joints might also be added to enhance the aesthetic appeal and increase safety measures.
The installation process for glass slats is more manageable, and similar to other traditional railing installations. Once you determine post placements, you measure the post-to-post distance and ensure there is equal spacing at the ends of each rail section. Then you install the glass slats according to our instructions.
Should there need to be any adjustments as the glass slats are installed, the process to replace or adjust the slats will be more straightforward and won’t affect the entire system.
Comfort
When considering products for outdoor spaces, function is often just as important as design. In the case of glass slats versus glass panels the goal of having an unobstructed, clear view is achieved by both, but one factor that can be overlooked is the comfort of the space when it’s being used.
Full glass panels can serve as a total wind block which can create a warmer environment on a hot summer day. With the spaces in between each glass slat, air flow is not obstructed, helping to create a more comfortable setting for those enjoying your outdoor space.
Simple Maintenance
Now that your glass panels or glass slats are installed, here comes the fun part – keeping them clean.
Cleaning your glass panels may take longer than slats due to their size. Depending on the location of your panels, you may need to hire out the work for safety reasons. If your panels are balcony level, professionals might be the answer for you.
The space between each glass slat makes it easy to clean the backside of the slat, no matter which level your deck is on.
Pro Tip: if you want to minimize maintenance and reduce rain spots on your glass panels or slats, you can use Rain-X spray to prevent rain spots!
You Can’t Go Wrong with Unobstructed Views
At the end of the day choosing the right deck railing infill is a matter of deciding what aesthetic and functionality you want for your outdoor living space. There’s an array of compelling benefits to both glass panels and glass slats. As you consider updating your current or building new, we hope you now consider the benefit of glass slats if you thought glass panels were your only option.
Choose Products Designed for Style and Built for Performance.
If you’re interested in our composite decking or deck railing one of our expert salesmen would love to help you with next steps. Not ready to start building? No problem! Our Idea Gallery and Deck Visualizer are excellent tools as you look for more inspiration.
