Walk On Glass Installation in London
In recent times, walk on glass elements have grown in popularity, likely inspired by lavish installations in television programmes showcasing grand residential homes overseas. The incorporation of structural transparent flooring areas or stair treads can potentially provide a distinctive design statement. However, for safe and compliant functionality, responsible due diligence must first be conducted.
Here, London glazing specialists Glazing Works London offer insights regarding feasibly achieving temporary walk on glass features while avoiding detrimental pitfalls.
Understanding Walk On Glass Technology
Primarily, walk on glazing incorporates extremely resilient glass engineered to withstand human weight and moderate impacts under typical use conditions. Proprietary products are commonly fabricated utilising reinforced laminated or toughened safety glass layers precision bonded together.
If damage occurs, the glass layers are intended to crack safely in place rather than shatter apart presenting injury hazards. This specialist material, acute manufacturing technique and meticulous fitting differs substantially from conventional glazing found in fenestrations. Attempting amateur installations utilising regular glass is assuredly ill-advised.
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Health and Safety Considerations
Given pedestrians make direct contact with the glazing surface, stringent safety governance applies under UK Building Regulations and British/European Standards. Reputable installers will be able to demonstrate compliance covering factors such as:
- Minimum thickness – typically 55mm+ to account for anticipated weight loading
- Impact resistance – must withstand severe constant impacts without splintering
- Fire retardancy – passing burn resistancy tests inhibiting flame spread
- Thermal durability – capable of tolerating temperature variations without cracking
- Weatherproof sealing – essential for external installations
Moreover, prepare for council inspections post-completion before allowing use. Compliance confirmation procedures should be accounted for within project schedules. As experienced structural glass installation specialists operating in London for over 30 years, Glazing Works London are fully versed in code requirements to deliver peace of mind.
Innovative Walk On Glass Applications
There are numerous ways creative walk on glass elements can be integrated within London residential developments and commercial premises, for example:
- Illuminated underfloor panels introducing ambient light into basements spaces
- Futuristic staircase treads with integrated LED illumination
- Glass floors enabling underwater visibility in swimming pools and spas
- Structural walkways bridging different buildings or floor levels
- Roof top balcony attractions providing daredevil transparent vistas
Early consultations with Glazing Works London are recommended when proposing novel spatial concepts, in order that tailored solutions maximising impact whilst minimising risk can be developed aligned to individual needs and practical site considerations.
Indicative Costs for Supply and Installation
Due to the highly specialised nature coupled with involved design, intricate fabrication methods and intensive fail-safe installation needed, the incorporation of walk on glass elements unsurprisingly commands premium pricing versus standard glazing. As a rough guide, all-inclusive supply and professional fitting costs would be expected as follows:
- Glass floor panels – from £2,000 per m2
- Glass stair treads – from £2,500 per tread
- Glass swimming pool bases – from £1,200 per m2
Substantially more significant budgets would be necessitated for visually arresting bespoke creations such as illuminated coloured glass stairs or expansive 4 metre wide floor spaces. Generally, it is imperative investors recognise that attempting amateur installations to reduce expenses is extremely unwise in this field.
Engage Specialist Glazing Experts from Project Outset
In summary, parties keen to integrate walk on glass features within London properties are urged to engage suitable structural glazing specialists from the very outset. As leading industry experts operating in the capital for over 30 years, Glazing Works London offers unparalleled consultancy services, bespoke design capabilities and installation expertise enabling ambitious transparency concepts to be realised in accordance with stringent building codes.
Please contact us directly on 020 8050 7046 or through our website to discuss possibilities further without obligation. We sincerely look forward to assisting with successful walk on glass installations.