Why Glass Railings Are Worth Installing
Glass railings used to be a rare type of installation. However, this is a type of railing that can be very difficult to install. When working with railings made of wood, if you have a tricky corner, you may trim a portion of the railing so it fits in place. But because glass railings can't be trimmed and usually comes with specific dimensions, creating custom railings for a home with odd dimensions can be expensive. However, if a contractor is able to make glass railings work for your home at an affordable price, there are many benefits to this type of railing installation.
An Unobstructed View
For one, the glass railings provide you with more visibility. If you have a beautiful view, you will be able to see it more easily when a portion of your railing is transparent. Because the glass is often combined with other materials, such as wood, a portion of the railing will still be visible, and you won't have to worry about walking into the glass accidentally.
Framed Railings Remain Up To Code
There are also frameless glass railings that are available, but they might not be up to code in the future. Increasingly, codes that govern railings often require that they come with a frame. If you are forced to replace frameless glass railings when there is an update in your local codes, you may have to spend a lot of money to replace your frameless glass railings.
Framed Railings are Easy to Install
Framed glass railings are also easier to install. Frameless glass railings require brackets and fasteners. Because of the challenge of installing a frameless glass railing, the contractor is more likely to make a mistake. Fortunately, with a talented and experienced contractor, your glass railings will be installed in a manner that will make them last a long time.
Easier to Maintain
Glass railings reduce the amount of maintenance you need to perform. Other materials, such as wood, need to be sealed and stained regularly. The glass portions of your railings can be cleaned using the same methods you use to wash your exterior windows. Glass also doesn't deteriorate like wood does.
Higher Property Values
Glass railings make a home look more expensive and will typically increase your property values. So even if it is somewhat more expensive, you will be able to sell your home at a higher price when it's time to move.