How to install a balcony railing, types of structures and materials

Issues covered in the material:

• 3 reasons to order the manufacture of balcony railings
• GOST requirements for balcony railings
• About the main types of balcony railings
• Advantages and disadvantages of metal balcony railings
• About balcony railings made of other materials
• Installation rules for balcony railings
• About the beautiful design of balconies

Balcony railings are installed not only in apartment buildings, but are often an architectural element of country cottages and public buildings. Somewhere they have an exclusively practical function, complying only with strict rules of safe operation. We are interested not only in safe, but also in beautiful balconies.

In order for the balcony railing to also perform an aesthetic function, it is important to choose the right type of structure, material of manufacture, and choose a design that matches the general architectural concept of the building. This is what will be discussed in our material.

Technical requirements for balcony railings

GOST 25772-83 divides balcony railings, depending on the height of buildings, into two groups: in houses with a height of up to 30 meters (BP) and more than 30 meters (BV). A separate category includes stairs and railings to the balcony for preschool institutions (DB). According to the structural design of the frame, depending on the degree of its filling, the fence of the stairs and the balcony is divided into lattice (P) and screen (E), consisting of plates of various materials. A separate group includes combined modifications (K), which have elements of lattices and slabs in their design.
According to GOST 25772-83, balcony railings and stairs are marked with an indication of the type, main dimensions (length and height), type of filling, at the end this GOST is given.

Fig. 2 Metal railings for balconies made of nickel-plated and chrome-plated pipes

The given standard imposes the following requirements for balcony railings:

• Balcony railings for low-rise buildings (up to 30 m.) Should have a height of 1 m from the floor and a slab size in height of 0.9 m, for buildings with a height of more than 30 m, the height of the railing and their size is 1.1 m and 1 m, respectively ...
• Currently, the use of latticed balcony railings is prohibited in the construction of new houses, only screens are allowed. Screen structures should have fasteners that allow the plate to be securely fixed and easily replaced.
• Elements of metal frames of balcony parapets must be joined together only by a welded method.
• Frames and elements of fencing must be made of corrosion-resistant materials or protected from moisture by standard methods.
• The distance between the grids of the balcony railing should not exceed 110 mm.
• Railings must withstand pressure (concentrated loads) over 100 kgf. (100 kilograms per linear meter).
• The presence of mechanical defects in the form of curvature, burrs on the parapets is not allowed; if metal fences are used, there should be no sharp parts in their structure, scale or rust on the metal surface.

Fig. 3 Plastic balcony railings

Installation rules for balcony railings

To install balcony railings, use embedded fasteners embedded in a concrete slab or wall. Embedded fasteners - metal strips and steel reinforcement with a thickness of about 1-2 cm - are necessary to securely fix the fences, ensuring the safety of people on the balcony.

For the installation of almost all types of balconies, with the exception of wooden ones, metal frames are used, which can be as follows:

• Welded, i.e. manufactured at the factory using electric arc welding with all-metal structures attached to the facade and base with anchor bolts.
• Prefabricated or composite, involving the assembly of individual elements at the installation site. Manufacturers produce individual modules with reliable groove connections and stiffeners. First of all, the vertical struts of the frame are assembled, to which other elements are then attached.

It should be borne in mind that for the installation of balcony railing, in most cases, special double mortgages are used, attached to the wall or concrete base. Embedments must comply with the requirements of GOST. The metal frame is closed with a clean floor, after which the rest of the balcony elements are assembled.

During installation, certain safety rules must be observed:

• the space under the balcony should be free of things and objects;
• below it is necessary to install fences and warning signs that can be rented from a construction and installation company;
• before starting work in an apartment building, neighbors should be warned, inform them about the need to free the balconies from combustible and flammable objects and liquids;
• when performing installation work in the summer, it is important to control the absence of branches and dry grass under the balcony.

Violation of the rules when installing a balcony is fraught with complaints from neighbors to the supervisory authorities and a subsequent fine.

Installation of balcony railings in an apartment building requires approval from the management company. In some cases, the replacement of the parapet is possible after receiving the approval of the general meeting of residents. Increased requirements apply, first of all, to houses included in the list of state-protected property.

Requirements for fences

Surprisingly, the first mention of the need to make fences can be found in the Bible. In the countries of the East, it was customary to eat and spend time with guests on the roof

And so it was necessary to enclose it with a fence so that one of the guests, as a result of negligence, would not fall off it. The main regulations describing modern requirements are based on the same principle

It must be safe to be on the balcony. In this regard, the following norms appeared:

1. Height of the balcony railing. According to GOST, the minimum height in a standard multi-storey building with a height of up to 30 m is about 1 m. This situation is considered a little tougher in SNiP. According to these instructions, the same coefficient should be equal to 1 m. 20 cm.
2. Load. Railings that are installed as fences must withstand a voltage of 30 kgf / m.
3. Jumpers. Only vertical jumpers are allowed, and the distance between them must be at least 12 cm.

By law, violation of these requirements allows you to impose a fine on the owners of the apartment and oblige them to redo the balcony at their expense. In the most serious cases, by a court decision, a decision may be made on deprivation of title with the sale of housing and compensation for legal costs at the expense of the amount received. The owner will only have a small part of this amount.

Installation standards

Construction standards (SNiP and GOST of balconies and loggias) provide not only the vertical size of the railing, but also other parameters: strength characteristics of the material, the load that the site must withstand, its size.

Standard height of the balcony railing

The minimum height of the railing of a balcony or loggia in a residential building is 90 cm.The building codes also regulate the maximum: for a building up to 30 m, the fence should not be more than 1 m, but on high-rise buildings (more than 30 m), it is recommended to install rails up to 1.1 m.

For children's institutions, the standard vertical dimensions of the fence on the balcony slab are at least 1.2 m.The distance between the bars does not exceed 12 m.

For private houses, the requirements are more democratic, and the average recommended height of the balcony railing ranges from 90-110 cm, regardless of the size of the building. The location of the handrail is determined by the owner himself based on the concepts of his own convenience.

SNiP

According to building codes (SNiP), the platform of the balcony structure must withstand a weight equal to 200 kg / m2. Along the perimeter of the installation of the railing posts, this indicator should be 2 times more. This will allow the railing to support the weight of several people leaning on the rail at the same time.

Horizontal elements must withstand loads of up to 30 kg / m if the impact is directed parallel to the ground, and withstand a pressure of 100 kg / m in the vertical direction.

SNiP also regulate the size of the wall between the window opening and the place where the railing is attached to the wall. This area should serve as a refuge in the event of a fire in the apartment. Its width is not less than 1.2 m. The walls are made on each side of the loggia platform.

GOST

The height of the screen fence changes according to the standard for houses of different heights in accordance with GOST 25772-83. In addition to height, it is regulated by:

• protection of bearing parts against corrosion;
• the use of materials with a sufficient degree of strength;
• compliance with height standards (except for private houses).

GOST 23120-2016 regulates the installation procedure for supports and balusters. The fastening of parts at 2 points (bottom and top) is prescribed, and the maximum distances between the centers of the enclosing elements (15.2 cm) and their external parts are recommended (the gap is no more than 10.7 cm). When repairing yourself or replacing the railings on the balcony, you must adhere to these rules.

The nature of the finish of the fences

Based on the nature of the decoration, it is possible to make the balcony and the wall of the house merge with each other, focusing on the integrity of all components of the building and the brevity of the decor techniques used.

You can choose another option - decorative finishing of the balcony that adorns the entire facade of the house. By applying various landscaping ideas to the design of the balcony, the balcony can become more elegant and look more comfortable.

Landscaping of the loggia with:

• Horizontal flower girls that are attached at various levels of fences;
• Brackets with flower pots;
• Pendant with loaches;
• Lattices entwined with grapes.

Very often, the uniqueness of the appearance, the building, its solidity, success, completeness are due to the original balcony railings.

Materials for making fences

There is a wide variety of ready-made solutions for the manufacture of balcony railing. Recently, more and more owners are opting for combined types of structures in which metal serves only as a basis for other materials: tempered glass, stainless steel, aluminum, etc. Let's dwell on the most common options:

1. Aluminum. The advantage of this material is its resistance to atmospheric precipitation. It is also neutral to acid and other corrosive substances. He also has certain disadvantages. One of them is that under the influence of sunlight and weather conditions, it loses its luster over time. When installing this fence, you have to resort to installing and securing special pins. Conventional welding will not help in this case. The most common use of this metal is as guide profiles for the installation of special impact-resistant glass.
2. Steel. Stainless steel will last much longer than aluminum. At the same time, the appearance of such a metal is much better, and when it darkens, you can restore its shine with the help of ordinary grinding. You can perform this operation yourself using an angle grinder.
3. Iron. This material is most often used to make do-it-yourself metal balcony railing.There are several reasons for this. The first is that it is quite easy to carry out the installation of such a fence, subject to the ability to work with a welding machine. Second, the railings can be made in almost any price category. Someone can afford to install a forged product, others may afford to buy a suitable material at one of the metal acceptance points or a hardware store. It's easy enough to work with him.

Caution! When working with aluminum and stainless steel, it must be remembered that GOSTs prohibit the use of horizontal jumpers in the fence. Violation of this rule can significantly affect the safety of being on the balcony.

What do we offer

Since 2005, we have been manufacturing and professional installation of structures of varying complexity. Issuance of a warranty card confirms the quality of services, and defects found are eliminated free of charge.

It is advantageous to order glass or metal railings from us for several reasons:

1. Wide range of options. If you are not satisfied with ready-made solutions, then we will develop an individual design.
2. Free development of a design project. Call a specialist to the object to carry out measurements and the necessary calculations.
3. The use of various materials. It is stainless steel, brass, black iron with anti-corrosion protective coating. Metal structures do not require complex maintenance and serve for decades.
4. High-quality installation. You can order a professional installation of any complexity.

The most popular material for fencing is stainless steel. Fences made of such metal are reliable, durable and have excellent performance characteristics.

Requirements of state regulations

If there is a need or desire to replace the balcony railings in connection with repair, reconstruction or redevelopment, then be sure to first familiarize yourself with the legislative side of this issue. The design and installation of the fence for the balcony must be carried out strictly in accordance with the requirements of the SNiP normative documents.

The GOST set of rules regulates the following basic provisions:

• The total height of the fence on the balcony of high-rise buildings, the height of which is up to 30 meters, must correspond to 1 meter;
• In apartment buildings over 30 meters high - 1.2 meters;
• The direct height of the railings on the balcony is not less than 0.9 meters;
• On an open balcony, the distance between the base and the lower horizontal bar of the lathing should not exceed 100 mm;
• The distance between the balusters (vertical bridges) - should not exceed 0.12 meters;
• It is forbidden to install a wooden balcony railing in high-rise buildings;
• The railing must withstand a load of 30 kg / m.

It must be remembered that non-observance of the rules leads not only to a risk to the health and life of people living in the apartment, but also to the likelihood of falling under penalties, if checked by the relevant organizations. The prospect of reworking or updating the entire structure looks even sadder.

A safe, beautiful and cozy balcony will be a great place to relax!

Prices for the manufacture of fences for balconies, loggias and terraces

View detailed price list

The type of balcony railings is selected in accordance with the architectural style of the building. For this, all kinds of decorative elements are personally selected - they must make the structure a harmonious part of the overall design solution.

The main parameters of the balcony railings

If for you the aesthetic appearance has a priority when decorating the facade of the house, then in any case you will have to reckon with the parameters of the balcony railings. One of the important indicators is height. According to the rules, the upper edge of the rail should be no lower than the middle of the person's body. But this is a relative indicator, since people are different. Therefore, it is often believed that it is somewhere between 0.9-1.1 meters. It depends on the distance between the balcony slabs - the larger it is, the higher the fence.

If we turn to the standards in this area, for example, GOST, then the height is 1 meter, and the SNiP provides for 1 meter 20 centimeters. In any case, if there are children in your house, then the height can be made larger.

Another parameter worth paying attention to for those who will make a fence from individual elements is the size of the gaps. According to the rules, they should not exceed 10-12 cm

This is primarily for the safety of the little ones.

Limits have also been established for the horizontal loads that the handrail must withstand, namely:

• 30 kgf / m - for hospitals and preschool institutions;
• 150 kgf / m - for gyms;
• 80 kgf / m - for residential buildings.

Fig. 15. Parameters of the height of the fence.

Brick or foam block construction

Loggia, especially in old panel houses, often already has a concrete fence. It will usually still meet safety requirements, but may not be strong enough to fit modern glazing. Therefore, the fence will need to be repaired.

In such a situation, laying of bricks or foam blocks will be justified (as well as, if necessary, insulate a balcony with old rusted fencing gratings).

On what material to stop, experts will tell you: if foam concrete is suitable for a balcony of almost any design in terms of specific weight, then a brick fence with its large mass can be painlessly arranged mainly in monolithic houses.

Materials for balcony railings advantages and disadvantages

The railing for the balcony can be made of stainless steel - it is a practical and attractive material from which both refined and simple solutions are obtained. Among the possible options for stainless steel fences - with clear or curved lines, hollow, solid or blown with a round section. The main advantage of such railings is that they will be strong and incredibly durable. For their installation, argon-arc welding is used.

Their analogue can be aluminum, which has a lower weight.

Stainless steel balconies

By the way, stainless steel balcony railings are excellently combined with other materials - modular blocks, glass or metal sheets.The result is a stylish and modern solution with an airy effect - it can be combined with any method of facade design. Among the advantages of stainless steel - and absolute simplicity in care, and immunity to moisture and other weather phenomena. In addition, these handrails can be left “as is”, without painting, or they can be additionally painted, which will increase the attractiveness of the structure.

Solid and solid handrails are made of brick, stone or concrete. However, balcony railings of this type are not very simple in design, but they guarantee high stability of the entire structure. However, when choosing such materials for handrails, you need to carefully calculate the maximum weight that the ceiling can withstand. Also, a stone fence requires a lot of space - but the result will be spectacular and large-scale. Natural (granite or marble) as well as artificial stone can be used to create such fundamental facade decorations. To obtain artificial stone, mixtures based on sand, granite chips, high-quality cement are used.

Concrete balusters on the balcony as a fence

You can use various design tips to determine how to make your own handrail - they can be made according to standard or individual sketches, in different sizes and shapes.

It is also important that all installed elements comply with safety standards and fit the facade design in style.

Railings for balconies can be made of cast iron or metal (steel). Metal handrails will corrode, and therefore they must be covered with a special compound that will fight rust.

Old cast iron balcony railing

Metal fences are often forged - they can take on the most fancy shapes and are quite easy to install. In addition, these handrails can be easily matched to the size of the balcony and installed without taking up space. As for cast iron fences, they are considered more durable, although they have more weight.

Forged metal railing on the balcony

Excellent fences are also made of plastic or glass.

The result is a creative and modern design that looks incredibly impressive. Fences of this type can be all-glass or with the use of metal elements - then glass blocks and stainless steel handrails are placed through one. It turns out outwardly fragile, but quite reliable design. Plastic handrails are also popular due to their low price and low weight. However, they also need to be attached to a reinforced metal frame.

Glass railing with stainless steel frame

The most unsuitable material from the point of view of safety and practicality is wood - although it looks natural and aesthetically pleasing, it can rot due to high humidity. For balconies in apartment buildings, wood is completely unsuitable and wooden balcony railing can only be used as a decor on a metal basis. But for the terrace of a private house made of wood, such a solution will be fully justified, however, in this case, an appropriate protective coating of wooden railings will be required.

Beautiful railing made of wood in a country house

If you do not want to use standard solutions in the form of metal rods, then it is quite possible to supplement them with other materials - in this case, a mixed type railings are obtained. They can only represent a decorative solution or be an element for preparing for glazing.

Advantages and disadvantages of metal balcony railings

Private homeowners prefer metal balcony railings.These handrails are characterized by high reliability and durability, they do not lose their quality in case of temperature drops, exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Painting, as well as electroplating, nickel plating or galvanizing give the metal anti-corrosion resistance.

1. Steel and aluminum balcony railings.

Most often, steel and aluminum are chosen for the construction of balconies. To increase the corrosion resistance during installation, welding is replaced with bolted joints. If welding is used to fasten handrails, the seams must be cleaned, primed and painted. For the manufacture of metal balcony railings, profiled pipes, sheets or profiles are used. Internal sections are fixed with large diameter fittings.

When choosing aluminum to create handrails, it is important to remember that aluminum blanks are electroplated with chromium or nickel on the metal surface. Accordingly, the use of welding during installation will damage the protective layer. To avoid this problem, instead of welding, special decorative nuts and bolts made by milling and turning are used. Due to the manufacturability of the material, the railings of the balcony railing can have both standard and original shapes, emphasizing the individuality of the loggia.

2. Welded balcony railings made of profiled pipes.

For the manufacture of welded fences from a profiled pipe, solid metal squares with a section of 10x10 mm are used. Balcony posts are created from profile pipes with a section of 2x2 cm or 2.5x2.5 cm, as well as strips of 4x40 mm in size. The customer chooses a suitable pattern, which is welded to the balcony frame using electric arc welding, and then cleaned.

The basic structure of the balcony consists of sections (90 cm high), which are based on 10x10 cm squares. Welded railings optimally combine protective qualities and cost (based on the cost of materials, as well as welding and installation work).

The advantages of welded metal balconies are:

• Possibility of choosing any design solution, since experienced welders are able to create various geometric shapes, floral patterns or lace.
• Resistance to mechanical damage, the ability to withstand a significant load, despite the apparent lightness and airiness.
• Anti-corrosion protection achieved through treatment with special compounds, resistance to ultraviolet rays, fading, climatic conditions. Balcony railings will serve for a long time without losing their visual appeal.
• Organic compatibility with other materials, including wood, stone and concrete, thanks to which you can create an original design of the balcony and loggia.

3. Forged balcony railings.

The main difference between forged balcony railing is not only in its stylish appearance, but also in its high cost. Their advantage lies in the almost unlimited choice of design solutions. Such railings are distinguished by smooth lines, exquisite patterns, external aristocracy. For the manufacture of fencing elements, hot or cold forging methods are used. To ensure the safe performance of work, welding machines are used. Forged elements are created from steel rods with a round or square cross section.

Manufacturing and installation are carried out in the following order:

• the configuration and drawing of the balcony railing is selected, a sketch is created;
• drawings with a detailed description and indication of the dimensions of the elements are made manually or on a computer;
• composite elements of the fence structure are created;
• small parts are located in accordance with the drawing;
• using electric welding, the fence elements are connected to each other;
• if necessary, the handrail is painted.

The attachment points for the balcony railing are prepared in advance. During the construction process, reinforcement or rolled steel is laid in the brickwork at a distance that corresponds to the size of the railing. Seating places (in which the structure is fixed) are provided at the base of the balcony on both sides.

4. Balcony railings made of stainless steel.

Balcony railings made of stainless steel are in great demand. The demand for such structures is due to their excellent compatibility with other materials, the possibility of creating original, beautiful railings. Modern and spectacular externally fences are characterized by resistance to temperature extremes, moisture, precipitation, do not need painting to impart corrosion resistance. However, it is up to homeowners to paint the railings the desired color to give them a specific look or enhance their visual impact.

As for the disadvantages of stainless steel structures, they are as follows:

• inability to withstand wind and dust;
• lack of protection from prying eyes;
• low safety for children due to the large number of horizontal elements (this problem can be solved by installing original plastic panels on the balcony).

The advantages of stainless steel balcony railings are durability and visual appeal.

5. Beautiful cast iron balcony railings.

Cast iron railings are able to give a respectable look to any balcony. Even a small house decorated with such a railing will become more sophisticated. Cast iron parapets are decorated with intricate patterns and bronze elements. Cast iron balusters are made in various stylistic directions and give individuality and originality to the facade of the building.

The demand for cast-iron balcony railings is due to:

• strength;
• cost in comparison with other materials;
• the possibility of insulation and cladding;
• durability;
• relatively light weight;
• high security.

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• Metalworking according to drawings: convenient and profitable

The disadvantage of such railings for balconies is that in the absence of additional decorative elements that make up most of their cost, outwardly they look unattractive. In order to save money, you can sheathe the frame with panels or sheet material.

How to install a fence on the balcony yourself

If you have the necessary knowledge, tools and materials, it is quite possible to arrange the balcony on your own.

This will require metal:

• Profile or round pipes up to 18 mm in diameter and 1000 mm in length;
• Channel;
• Armature;
• Guide profiles (horizontal and vertical);
• Anchor bolts;
• Corner.

Before starting work, you should decide on the dimensions of the future structure and make a preliminary sketch. Then, using a special computer program or on your own, design an accurate drawing of the fence on paper.

Next, we stock up on the tool:

• Drill (perforator);
• With a hammer;
• Welding machine;
• Measuring level;
• Grinder.

The plan for subsequent work looks like this:

1. We find the places of mortgages (seats) at the base of the balcony;
2. We produce a fence by welding, the length of which must correspond to the length of the balcony;
3. We install the lower and upper beams, weld the fence to them;
4. With the help of reinforcement we weld the embedded beams;
5. We attach meter guides to the wall using anchor bolts;
6. We weld the side profile pipes and the upper horizontal level;
7. We paint the frame and make its cladding.

For the safety of work, all flammable objects are removed from the balcony. Do not carry out work in the open space of the balcony when it is raining. Each profile attachment must be carefully checked.

Installation of forged railings with screws

The installation technology is very simple:

• first, holes are drilled where the starting supports will be inserted;
• special glue is poured;
• the starting support is installed;
• a hole is prepared for mounting the finishing support, glue is poured again;
• finishing support is mounted;
• free space is marked between the main supports;
• holes are drilled for mounting intermediate supports. Their installation is in progress;
• power parts are being prepared. Using an angle grinder, the desired length is cut;
• holes are drilled for mounting bolts;
• all power elements are fastened;
• the free space between the power parts and the racks is closed with a special filler;
• the structure is fastened with fastening bolts and nuts;
• to create a more beautiful appearance, you can cover the drilling sites with soil, as well as the filings carried out to achieve the desired size.

Many owners of private houses do most of the work with their own hands. They mainly use a welding machine. Of course, having experience with metal and knowing the basics of welding, they can easily make such a forged decoration. They can only be advised of one thing. Before starting work, prepare in advance the required number of electrodes, bent steel corners and shaped pipes.

Roof and railings

How to make a balcony railing yourself

If you want to assemble the balcony railing yourself, then be sure to consult with the designer. Also, sketches of various designs of handrails can be found on the Internet without any problems for any different design of a balcony or loggia.

Norms and restrictions

If you opted for a cast-iron structure or another metal besides stainless steel, then after installing it, be sure to apply a special mixture that protects the material from corrosion, and then paint.

Railings on the balcony are quite important elements. Despite the aesthetics, they must comply with the modern requirements of SNiP, which are basically aimed at the requirements for the strength and reliability of such a structure.

SNiP also determined the permissible height of the railing on the balcony, which should correspond to the overall proportions of the structure.

The first determining factor is the average height of a person. According to the requirements of SNiP, the height of the balcony railing should be at least at the level with the midpoint of the person's abdomen. Therefore, these figures range between 90-110 centimeters.

But today it is advised to set the height a little more than this indicator, on average 100-120 centimeters

Also, special attention should be paid to decorative elements, which should be installed to the maximum height, for greater practicality and safety.

Large openings and openings in the structure are not allowed, as well as the presence of sharp corners and other decoration elements in order to secure the presence of children on the balcony. Smooth details and small holes ensure your safety.

In the event that the construction of the balcony fence is not integral, but consists of two or more elements, there must be a distance between them that does not exceed the norms established by SNiP. In accordance with such standards, the gap can be no more than 12 centimeters.

Oddly enough, an excellent example of correct designs is the balcony railing installed on old houses (Khrushchev).In pursuit of fashion or comfort, the owners forget that, first of all, these structures serve to protect people on the loggia or balcony.

Although this work is quite laborious, it can be done independently, the main thing is to remember about all the norms and not save on reliable materials.

Installation process

In the case of using stainless steel, such work will seem like a constructor's assembly. You should buy such materials: channels, corners, rods and metal pipes.

In order to make high-quality and reliable handrails, it is advised to use a round pipe or profile, but for the lattice it is necessary to take metal rods with a diameter of 10-16 millimeters.

Next, you need to do the work in a certain sequence. The base is welded first. To do this, you need to take metal corners and weld to the base of the balcony along the perimeter.

After that, the frame itself is welded from the profile. The frame is attached to the wall with self-tapping screws. Further, the fence is welded to the finished frame.

In order for the installation to take place more conveniently and quickly, it is advised to weld the structure to the frame already assembled. If you first draw up a sketch of the finished structure, the work done will be the most efficient and fastest.

On the fence, as mentioned above, you can install wooden or metal handrails made of stainless steel. The metal structure can be left unchanged, but the wooden elements must be treated with a protective mixture and painted as you like.

What are railings for?

The purpose of the balcony railings is beyond doubt: this the element is primarily intended to ensure the safety of people on the balcony... The metal frame of the fence is capable of supporting the weight of an adult and is created according to certain standards. But in addition to the upper border with a handrail, the balcony fence also has a frontal part, as well as sidewalls.

Reference. A country or country house allows you to give a mini-terrace almost any shape, let it run along the entire perimeter or extend it in the form of a ledge above the porch.

Railings also play a huge role in the design of the facade of the building.... It is enough to take the most famous architectural monuments as a basis and compare them with the variegated design of modern multi-storey buildings.

In suburban housing construction, great importance is attached to the design of balcony groups.... After all, even the style of the parapet can emphasize the grace of the lines or become an expressive detail that adorns the classic facade. In urban housing, it is better to focus on the architecture of the building when decorating a balcony, then it will not look alien.

What are the balconies

Metallic

- are in special demand among consumers due to their high strength;

- pronounced possibilities of combinations of metal and other materials;

- affordable and wide range of prices.

Stainless steel

- With polished stainless steel in fences, you can talk about their strength and durability.

- They are not pretentious and do not require special care, and in case of contamination, they can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth.

- They do not require additional protective coating. The original steel shine does not fade or fade over time.

- Immunity to precipitation and high humidity.

- The appearance is always spectacular, stylish, modern, while the fences give the impression of being airy, light, weightless.

- Any form of fencing is possible.

- Steel goes well with any materials.

Wrought iron railings

Certainly the best option for cottage-type houses and country mansions, especially if everything is done in the same style: fences, stair railings, balconies and other building elements.

Forged fences are considered elite, unsurpassed, luxurious, giving the building uniqueness and success.

Reliability of balcony railings

When designing such a balcony, it is important to take into account the requirements for ensuring the reliability of fences. It is important to use only those structures for which welding was used. Ancient terraces and balconies of wealthy citizens of those times are decorated with just such delights

It was not just a fashion statement. It was customary to transfer real estate by inheritance, so everything that was done on the estate was done with high quality, for centuries, by special foreign craftsmen. Interestingly, in spite of the fact that each era used ornaments and decorations corresponding to the fashion of that time, the technologies are still unchanged.

Ancient terraces and balconies of wealthy citizens of those times are decorated with just such delights. It was not just a fashion statement. It was customary to transfer real estate by inheritance, so everything that was done on the estate was done with high quality, for centuries, by special foreign craftsmen. Interestingly, in spite of the fact that each era used ornaments and decorations corresponding to the fashion of that time, the technologies are still unchanged.

Modern fashion allows freedom of creative expression, allowing you to choose any kind of fence, using the rich experience of ornate baroque, rococo or experimenting with new trends in high-tech and minimalism.

Modern life is a great combinatorial experimenter, so combining strength, reliability, visualization art and decor talent is more difficult, but more interesting.

News from partners

Manufacturing of fences

For the balcony railing to be safe, it must be solid. Installation of vertical or horizontal metal lamellas with a distance of no more than 10 cm is allowed.We offer several options for fences:

1. From glass. For the production of fences, triplex is used - high-strength tempered glass, equipped with protective films. Even with a strong impact, it will not break. Despite the external fragility, such filling is durable.
2. Made of metal. Stainless steel handrails complete with anti-fall slats. It is possible to manufacture curly forged fences.

Railings for the balcony and railings: photos and their criteria

Depending on the type of fences, they can be installed, completely covering the entire balcony, or be made in the form of a parapet. Also, adhering to the general style of the house, you can make balcony railings either from the same material or by combining them with each other.

There are several ways to make parapets:

1. With the help of laser cutting - this type of work is gaining popularity, and is characterized by speed in production, the presence of beautiful and even lines, as well as the ability to make the most intricate patterns.
2. The use of a variety of abrasive materials allows not only to thoroughly grind a certain type of fence made of metal or wood, but also to give it the desired structure.
3. Forged materials are distinguished not only by their beautiful and expensive appearance, but also have an acceptable cost, which is an order of magnitude higher than all other materials. The advantage here is the presence of smooth lines, with various curves and handwork, guaranteeing the complete individuality and exclusivity of the parapet.

Balcony railings can serve a variety of purposes. The most popular and familiar since Soviet times is the protective function and the need for drying clothes. But in modern times, this moment has remained in the past, and now it is very rare to see such a picture.

It is very pleasant to relax here, especially in the summer period; many housewives use flowerpots of various lengths and heights, planting hanging types of flowers in them.This slightly Mediterranean style gives the home an extraordinary grace and appeal.

Types of balcony fencing: their features, pros and cons

Railings for balconies made of various materials... Their variety allows owners of private houses to create beautiful and exclusive designs. Balconies can be wooden, metal, plastic and even glass. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, its own characteristics, including strength, and design qualities.

Everything balcony railings can be categorized according to the following parameters:

• material type;
• design features;
• type of installation.

By design features, the following types of railings for balconies are distinguished:

1. Screen. They consist of vertical supports on which a solid screen made of plastic, metal, glass is fixed.
2. Lattice. Instead of a solid screen, they use lattice elements located parallel to each other or presented in the form of a fantasy decor with an arbitrary ornament.
3. Combined. The most popular because they are suitable for the implementation of various design ideas. As a rule, several materials are connected at once or the lattice sections are replaced by screen ones. Different types of metals can also be combined, for example, light aluminum with stainless steel. The result of the work should be the formation of a reliable and durable barrier between the street and the house.

Balcony railings may differ in the type of materials used... They are divided into the following categories.

Metal railings for balconies

The most popular among owners of private houses are balcony fences made of metal. Metal handrails on the balcony are very durable and reliable... The material is able to retain its properties under any temperature extremes, prolonged exposure to sunlight. When painted, it does not corrode, is durable and reliable. The metals are electroplated to give them anti-corrosion properties and a layer of nickel or zinc oxides is applied.

Balcony builders tend to opt for steel and aluminum... To preserve the corrosion protection layer when installing the handrails, welding should not be used (bolted connections are used). In the event that welding was nevertheless used, the seams after stripping are primed and painted. Steel balcony railing is made of profiled pipe, sheet or profile. Reinforcement of large diameter is used to strengthen the inner sections of the balcony.

To create fences for loggias made of aluminum, it should be borne in mind that the workpieces have been electroplated with chromium or nickel. It follows from this that welding cannot be applied during installation without damaging the protective layer. Therefore, you can use special decorative nuts and bolts produced by milling and turning. The manufacturability of the material will allow you to design handrails of a standard and unusual shape and give the balcony an attractive look.

Welded

Welded fences made of a solid metal square (10 × 10 mm)... For balcony racks, a 2 × 2 cm or 2.5 × 2.5 cm profile pipe and 4 × 40 mm strips are used. The picture chosen by the owner is attached by electric arc welding to the frame and cleaned. The basic sections for welded structures are sections (900 mm high) from a standard square (10 × 10 mm). Welded balconies are an ideal combination of protective properties and price (cost of materials and welding and installation work).

Welded metal balcony has advantages:

1. The ability to implement any design. An experienced specialist can weld any geometric shapes, plant petals and lace.
2. Despite their airy and light appearance, the structures are resistant to mechanical stress and can withstand additional weight.
3. Welded barriers are treated with special solutions that provide corrosion protection. They do not fade and are not subject to external climatic influences. Such balconies will last for many years and will not lose their appearance.
4. Welded fences are harmoniously combined with wood, stone and concrete, which allows you to create an original decorative design for the balcony and loggia.

Wrought iron fences

Wrought iron fences differ from others not only in a stylish pattern, but also in a high price... The advantage of this type is the unlimited variety of designs for every taste. Smooth lines and sophistication of the ornament guarantee the exclusivity of the fence. These fences give the building sophistication and aristocracy.

Elements are made by hot or cold forging... To ensure safety, work must be carried out using a welding machine. To create forged parts, steel rods with a round or square cross section are used.

The installation process can be divided into several steps.:

• selection of the fence configuration, preparation of its sketch;
• execution of the drawing manually or using a computer. Indication of detailed dimensions of all parts and parts of the structure;
• manufacturing of fence components;
• placement of parts and small parts in accordance with the drawing;
• the creation of the fence itself by connecting parts by electric welding;
• painting the fence.

When installing, it is necessary to prepare in advance the attachment points of the fence to the balcony... Even during the construction of a house, reinforcement or rolled steel are laid in the brickwork at a distance corresponding to the size of the fence. The fixing points of the structure (seats) are located on both sides at the base of the balcony.

For stainless steel balconies

Stainless steel fencing is very popular with home owners. This the material goes well with others, which allows you to create beautiful, interesting designs... The balcony is spectacular and modern. The material is not afraid of moisture, resistant to any temperature extremes. Stainless steel handrails do not need to be painted to protect against corrosion. Painting is the decision of the owners. To enhance the effect or to give the structure the desired look, the railings can be painted in any color.

The disadvantage of a stainless steel construction is the inability to withstand wind and dust.... Beautiful and durable stainless steel does not block the general view and does not protect from prying eyes, in addition, the presence of many horizontal components makes the fence unsafe for children. The solution to this problem can be found by installing colored plastic panels that will make the balcony beautiful, original and safe. The big advantages of stainless steel fences are their durability and aesthetic qualities.

Cast iron

Cast iron cast fences make any building respectable... They can give even a small house a unique and sophisticated look. Such a structure, as a rule, is saturated with ornaments and can be decorated with bronze elements. Balusters for the balcony are significant components of the cast iron balcony design.

Artistic casting makes it possible to create many forms of balusters of different stylistic directions, which will give the balcony a unique look. Cast iron balconies are widespread due to the properties:

• strength;
• reasonable price compared to other materials;
• admission of cladding and insulation;
• long service life;
• relatively light weight;
• increased security.

Note! The design without additional (expensive) elements in itself has an unattractive appearance, which is its disadvantage.The most budgetary option in this case is sheathing the frame with panels or sheet material.

Parapet made of brick and aerated concrete

Balcony having a fence made of brick or aerated concrete, will serve for a long time without losing its appearance... The fences on the balcony made of these materials are resistant to the effects of weather. If it is planned to install such a barrier in an apartment building, then coordination with specialists will be required, since it will have a lot of weight.

Sometimes, in order to avoid accidents, you should replace the heavy material with a lighter one (foam block). Aerated concrete and brick have disadvantages:

• heavy weight, which is not always acceptable in a private house;
• significant mortar consumption during laying;
• high cost of bricks and aerated concrete;
• masonry is a technologically complex process, so it is better to invite specialists to work, which will also result in additional costs.

To reduce the weight of the masonry, choose a brick made by plastic pressing and characterized by low thermal conductivity. The use of such a brick will reduce the weight of the masonry by about one quarter.

Attractive and original glass balcony railing

Fences made of laminated laminated glass look fashionable and stylish... The parapet is made of solid glass with reinforcing metal elements. In the production of glass layers, they are tempered in a special way, and then glued together with a special laminated film. The prepared material is bent to the required shapes at a temperature of 600 degrees. At the end of processing, the raw material remains smooth and does not lose strength.

Parameters of glass blanks:

• size - up to 60 × 37.5 cm, thickness - from 3 mm;
• size - up to 250 × 160 cm, thickness - from 7 mm.

The finished glass railing is mounted to the base using glue, bolts, anchors and welding. The canvas can be fixed like this:

• fasten to the installed frame;
• apply a profile for fastening;
• apply special clamps.

In the building materials market ready-made sets of glass fences are on sale, which are easily installed by hand.

Plastic - a modern solution for balcony railing

Plastic balconies visually resemble glass, but are made of polycarbonate, plexiglass or other materials with high levels of light transmission.

Among the advantages of this solution are:

• modern design;
• affordable cost;
• low weight of the fence.

The disadvantages include not too high strength and a change in the characteristics of the plastic when exposed to cold. In addition, these materials are flammable.

Plastic balcony railing made of cellular polycarbonate provides sufficient privacy for people on the balcony... But in order for the fence to serve for a long time, you will have to choose the most massive sheets with a thickness of 10 mm or more. Thinner ones will simply become unusable after a few winter seasons, may crack in the cold or lose aesthetics. You should not choose color options - such a frame looks too cheap, transparent polycarbonate or plexiglass is much more reliable.

Due to the low weight and low strength of plastic fences, it is recommended to combine them when installed with internal lattice screen. It will create additional support, ensure the appearance of the necessary stiffeners, and increase the safety of use.

Stone

Fences made of stone ideal for houses built in a classic style with pillars or country style... Parapets are built from brick, natural stone or concrete. The main disadvantages are bulkiness and heavy weight.

Wooden balcony railings

Natural virtues, beauty and ease of processing have made wood the most commonly used material. for the construction of balcony railings. The balcony of the house, decorated with an ornate handrail with decorative posts, looks beautiful and emphasizes the overall design of the house. The correct combination of horizontal axes with vertical components gives the structure a unique look. Internal posts can be round or square in cross-section. Installation is carried out on the already finished balcony floor (wood or concrete). Fastening is carried out using metal brackets or corners.

Wooden railings are expensive, which is a disadvantage. The structure must be treated with special compounds, as it is highly susceptible to the influence of weather conditions... If the railings are not processed, they will soon lose their appearance and may even rot. For wood processing, the best tool is alkyd-urethane varnish, which is hard and resistant to atmospheric natural manifestations. In some situations, the use of bricks for finishing the balcony becomes a necessity.

Combined

To create a certain style of a house with balconies, combined fences are widely used. Metal fencing itself is a combination of metalsprocessed in different ways. Their surface can be glossy, matte, rough. There are options for metal blanks coated with colored polymers, which gives builders a lot of imagination when creating original barriers. Wooden railings are often attached to metal frames for convenience and safety.

Glass fences are stylishly combined with metal insertsthat can match the color of the glass pattern. Often, the owners of private houses arrange small balconies along the facade of the house, which are made by combining various materials.

Methods for installing railings on the balcony

The main factor influencing the installation method of handrails is the material of their manufacture. A common feature in all technologies is the need for a solid foundation for the fence. It is created by fastening a metal profile of a large section along the outer perimeter of the balcony ceiling. The base is fastened to the ceiling with anchor bolts. The upper part of the side elements of the fence is also attached to the anchor bolts to the walls.

The assembly of the railing starts from one edge and then follows along the entire perimeter. First, the vertical posts are fixed, then the railing is installed, at the end the walls of the fence are sewn up. In this way, prefabricated metal and wooden railings are mounted.

Video: how to choose a wrought iron railing

Forged fences are installed in a different way. Since they are one-piece construction, in the lower part they are simply welded or bolted onto the metal profile of the base. The sides are attached to the walls of the building through mortgages, to which the fence itself is welded or screwed.

During installation work, observe the safety rules:

• Prevent the possibility of the appearance of strangers under the balcony being repaired.
• Protect yourself, materials and tools from a possible fall from a height.
• If welding work is planned, exclude the presence of flammable objects in the working area.

Choosing the right type of railing for a balcony and their installation work is not a particularly difficult task. It is enough just to study all the available options for fences and correctly assemble them, without deviating from the conditions of technology and safety requirements.

When new fences are installed

• The need to match the design of the fence with a certain style. Usually, this applies to balconies that do not plan to be insulated, and special attention is paid to the decorative component and beauty.Forged metal fences help to obtain the desired result; stylish designs in glass, aluminum and stainless steel; ornate carved fences and wood elements.
• When carrying out insulation work on the balcony, glazing is provided along the perimeter of the parapet. Reinforced-plastic frames with inserted double-glazed windows have a significant weight. After glazing, a large wind load is also periodically applied to the entire structure. If the metal structure of the balcony railing, which becomes the support for the frame glazing, does not have the required reliability - it is being strengthened or a new one is being erected (after dismantling the old one).
• The need to replace the old fencing structure that has become unusable. Protruding beyond the load-bearing walls, balconies are exposed to adverse climatic and atmospheric factors. Corrosion of metal elements of the fence, cracks and destruction of the concrete floor slab are possible results of this effect. The complete replacement of such fences is often accompanied by the strengthening of the concrete slab with the installation of new strips or dimes made of metal - mortgages - to weld the entire enclosing structure to them.

Basic materials for the manufacture of balcony railing

Making a railing for a balcony with your own hands is not so easy. To do this, you must have certain building skills and have the necessary tools. But the main difficulty lies precisely in choosing the right material. It must fully correspond to the main material of the balcony, fit into the general view of the structure, and have all the necessary characteristics for this purpose.

Railings can be made from the materials listed below.

Stainless steel

Stainless steel fences are the most acceptable option for the exterior design of the structure. They can be hollow, solid, curly. Stainless steel is successfully combined with polycarbonate, plastic, glass. Such finished structures are much cheaper than products made of metal alone.

Stainless steel balcony railings

Stainless steel metal balconies have such obvious advantages:

• Gives sophistication and a certain style, decorates modern designs.
• Has a very long service life.
• The material is absolutely resistant to corrosion and decay.
• Doesn't need any care.
• Has sufficient strength.
• There are many design options to suit any situation.

Stainless steel is able to successfully emphasize modern design styles. But on old or wooden balconies, the material is not recommended.

A rock

Of stone

Stone or brick is sometimes used as a fence. These materials are not relevant in cases where the balconies are located in multi-storey buildings. But they are suitable for private houses. The main advantages of this choice are:

• Beautiful appearance that emphasizes the old style. Stone fences look especially presentable on open terraces of private houses.
• Solidity, reliability.
• Increased strength, resistance to destruction and external influences.

Now, here are some important drawbacks:

• The heavy weight makes it impossible to use stone and brick for apartment buildings. The weight exceeds the permissible load on the balcony slabs. Can only be used with good supports.
• The complexity and high cost of manufacturing.
• Stone or brick railings on the balcony take up too much space.

Forged steel

Wrought metal balcony railing has always been popular as a classic option. Artistic forging has the following advantages:

• Looks great on any balconies.
• Forged products allow you to create designs that are perfectly unique, whatever their owner desires.
• With a little maintenance, the products serve for a very long time.
• Doesn't take up much space.
• Installed quickly.

It is worth noting that forged items have a relatively high cost, as they are made by hand.

Metal

This is the most common material for handrail construction. You can choose from metal rods, corners, fittings, strips and other elements. Main advantages:

A very reliable and functional balcony can be built from fittings. It will be no worse than a forged counterpart, and will cost significantly less.

Wood

Wooden balconies are used only in wooden or frame-panel houses. So they correspond to their purpose as much as possible. The main advantages of wooden elements:

• Environmental friendliness.
• Aesthetic appeal. You can create any ornaments and figures from wood, decorating the balcony with them.
• Low weight.
• Ease of handling and installation.
• Possibility of self-production.
• A wealth of options to choose from.
• Wooden fences can be successfully complemented with metal or stainless steel elements.

In order for wooden fences to last a long time, they require regular maintenance at least once a year (impregnation, painting, varnishing).

Plastic and glass

Glass railings
These elements are not used independently on balconies, since they do not have the required strength. To strengthen them, they are combined with metal elements. Let's list the advantages of these materials:

• Possibility to create beautiful modern balconies.
• Resistance of plastic and glass to decay, corrosion, ultraviolet light.
• Relatively low cost of materials.
• Large selection of design options.
• Modern glass is resistant to mechanical stress. Tempered glass is especially famous for this.
• Durability. Glass can last more than 60 years, and high-quality plastic will certainly last 20 years.
• Lack of care.

How and how to decorate the railings on the balcony

It is not enough to build a beautiful balcony, it must also be comfortable for its inhabitants. Like any part of a residential building, it needs design. You can create a flower garden and a comfortable environment on the balcony with your own hands. Growing plantings is a simple solution, but correctly and beautifully placing them on the territory of the balcony is a task that requires imagination and invention.

Flowerpot from branches

To create pots from branches and sticks, you will need materials that are always at hand in the house:

• branches of plants;
• strong twine;
• sackcloth;
• good glue;
• a simple plastic pot.

First, you need to pick up twigs or sticks of equal length (20 cm). The branches must be tied in turn, tying a knot at each. As a result of tying on both sides, a single "branch" fabric is obtained. The plastic pot is decorated with burlap, wrapped and glued. A canvas of twigs is wrapped around the pot and the ends of the ropes are tied into an elegant bow.

Gramophone pots

If vinyl records remain in the house, you can make an original decoration for the balcony with your own hands. Materials should be prepared:

• gramophone record;
• container for shaping (jar, saucepan);
• paints (acrylic);
• tight gloves to protect hands.

The plate is placed on a plate (heat-resistant) and a forming container is placed on it. The structure is placed in the oven for 2 minutes. The softened plate is taken out of the oven and the future planter is formed (if the plate has hardened, it is placed in the oven again).

Holes (3 pcs.) Are made in a soft plate for suspensions. Original suspensions are made from thin chains. You can also additionally decorate such a planter by painting it with acrylic paints to match the interior colors. When painting, stencils and templates can be used.

Fabric pots

To match the design of the balcony with the interior of the house and the landscape of the site, made in the country style, you can make your own pots from dense fabrics. Burlap, which has a rigid structure, is ideal for decorating a balcony. It is necessary to cut a blank in the form of a square (or any shape) and sew it in the image of a pocket. Any pot with a plant can be placed in such a pocket. You can do the same with felt fabric. If the farm has old felt hats, then they can also be used as flowerpots, reinforced with wire. Unpretentious annual crops (petunias, lubelia and others) can be planted in felt pots.