FAQ
Q: What is a balustrade?
A: The word balustrade derives from the multiplication of many balusters. It is a fall prevention barrier which is used on balconies, staircases, and any other elevated walkway. It also takes the form of any number of versions i.e. 'The Glass Bar'
Q: Do I require a balustrade?
A: Any floor height equal to or greater than 1000mm requires a certified 1000mm high balustrade.
Q: Do you "supply only" or have any 'DIY' balustrade?
A: No. All of our balustrades are customised for every project. These are fully fabricated, powdercoated and installed to BCA & Australian Standards.
Q: Am I allowed to have horizontal bars or horizontal stainless steel wires as a balustrade?
A: Yes - however if the fall is more than 4000mm from the surface below to the proposed floor height, then no 'climbable' element is permitted in that balustrade between 150mm and 760mm (which includes all horizontal bars and stainless steel wires).
Q: I have 30 metres of required balustrade. What is your standard price per metre?
A: There are many factors that can influence the price of your balustrade. i.e The amount of mitres, curved balconies, fall in heights, colour of glass, timber deck or concrete slab fixings and different powdercoat colours. We are reluctant to offer approximate pricings over the phone as the price could significantly change after reviewing the plans. Please visit the REQUEST A QUOTE page to see what we require for a valid quote.
Q: Why can't I have a frameless glass balustrade? My neighbour has it!
A: New Australian Glazing Standards were introduced in 2006. "If the balustrade is protecting a difference in level of equal to, or greater than, 1000mm, an independant or interlinking handrail is required...".
Q: Can I use 6mm glass instead of 8 or 10 mm glass because its cheaper?
A: In some limited instances yes, and is dependant on what design of balustrade you choose as well as your wind and terrain category. All balustrades must conform to the wind and load requirements.
Q: Why can't I have 3m post centres? It would look better.
A: All balustrade must conform to load requirements set down in AS 1170.1-2002. As a general statement, post centres may not span greater than 1400mm to stay within these structural guidelines.
Q: I have a timber / tiled fibro deck. Does this affect the price?
A: Yes, and there are issues with tile breakages, water-proofing and fixings under the deck.
Q: I want to completely change my pool fence. Do I require a permit?
A: Yes. Please contact your local council for further information. Visit the LINKS section for some useful contacts. ABnc requires a copy of the permit to undergo any pool fencing modifications.
Q: I have a pool fence which has a fall greater than 1000mm on only one of the sides on our pool deck. Can I continue my frameless glass around my pool to the area which includes the fall?
A: No. As stated before, any fall equal to or greater than 1000mm requires a interlinking handrail. There are alternatives, please call to discuss.
