How to Install Glass Deck Railing Systems
All glass used for deck rails must be safety-tempered and shatter-resistant. Also, always make sure that all the edges of the glass are polished to prevent anyone from getting cut. Before building a glass deck rail, you should check with your local building department to enquire about any local restrictions. Most deck builders use tinted glass to match the house windows and as a deterrent to birds accidentally hitting them.
You may need to do some research to find a local glass company that can manufacture a custom glass order for you. Glass is priced as a commodity that does fluctuate in price. You should be able to buy glass for a deck rail for about $40 per lineal foot. When ordering, you will need to provide the exact measurements of each piece and the thickness. Using glass railing is an interesting choice that wonderfully preserves views. However, glass is very expensive and is only used in selected positions around the deck.
Installing glass rails will usually require you to build the rail frame first and take precise measurements to custom order the tempered safety glass. Because glass is very heavy, we recommend spacing the rail posts no more than 5 feet apart. Using a wood top and bottom rail, you will need to create a channel to place the glass in by using a router. The channel will usually be 3/8” thick and 1/2” deep to support the glass. You will need to subtract about 3” from both sides of the opening when ordering the glass to leave space for your hands during installation. Sometimes, it makes sense to install a piece of blocking or a brace under long rail spans for extra support. Installing tempered glass into stair rails is possible but very difficult. If you are going to try this, you should trace the opening on a large piece of cardboard to make sure you get the angles right.
Glass Rails
Installing glass rails will usually require you to build the rail frame first and take precise measurements to custom order the tempered safety glass...
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How to Install Glass Deck Railing Systems
All glass used for deck rails must be safety-tempered and shatter-resistant. Also, always make sure that all the edges of the glass are polished to prevent anyone from getting cut. Before building a glass deck rail, you should check with your local building department to enquire about any local restrictions. Most deck builders use tinted glass to match the house windows and as a deterrent to birds accidentally hitting them.
You may need to do some research to find a local glass company that can manufacture a custom glass order for you. Glass is priced as a commodity that does fluctuate in price. You should be able to buy glass for a deck rail for about $40 per lineal foot. When ordering, you will need to provide the exact measurements of each piece and the thickness. Using glass railing is an interesting choice that wonderfully preserves views. However, glass is very expensive and is only used in selected positions around the deck.
Installing glass rails will usually require you to build the rail frame first and take precise measurements to custom order the tempered safety glass. Because glass is very heavy, we recommend spacing the rail posts no more than 5 feet apart. Using a wood top and bottom rail, you will need to create a channel to place the glass in by using a router. The channel will usually be 3/8” thick and 1/2” deep to support the glass. You will need to subtract about 3” from both sides of the opening when ordering the glass to leave space for your hands during installation. Sometimes, it makes sense to install a piece of blocking or a brace under long rail spans for extra support. Installing tempered glass into stair rails is possible but very difficult. If you are going to try this, you should trace the opening on a large piece of cardboard to make sure you get the angles right.
Glass Rails
Installing glass rails will usually require you to build the rail frame first and take precise measurements to custom order the tempered safety glass...
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Explore Articles by Topic

Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks

Framing
Learn structural framing methods

Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials

Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs

Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code

Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights

Design
The basics of deck design

Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors

Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons

Ledger
Proper attachment techniques

Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment

Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights