FAQ

Common Questions

Frequently asked questions about balustrades and handrails

Find answers to common questions about Seagull Balustrades, including glass balustrades, stainless steel handrails, building regulations, outdoor use, commercial applications and product options.

For fitting, installation and maintenance guidance, please see Product Assembly. with further relevant questions under Delivery Information and Returns Policy.

Balustrades & Glass

Do your balustrades need welding?

Some parts of the system may require welding during manufacture. For example, upright posts can be supplied with TIG-welded base plates where required. Glass brackets, wire fixings and rail brackets may also require tube drilling or tapping, which is carried out in-house using CNC drilling equipment.

Can I use Perspex instead of glass?

Yes. Depending on the application, alternatives such as acrylic, perforated metal sheet, rigging wire, powder-coated metal, stainless steel tube, stainless steel bar or mesh may also be suitable.

Do you supply glass?

Yes. We can supply toughened and toughened laminated glass for suitable balustrade applications.

What thickness of glass do I need?

The required glass thickness depends on the balustrade system, fixing method and application. Standard balustrade glass clamps can usually accommodate a range of glass thicknesses, while thicker structural glass may require a base channel or specialist glass fixings.

How many glass clamps do I need?

As a general guide, we recommend a minimum of four glass clamps per square metre of glass, but requirements may vary depending on the size, location and application of the installation.

Do you supply infills?

Yes. We can supply round bar and rigging wire infills for use between balustrade uprights. Please contact us to discuss the most suitable option for your project.

How many wires do I need on my balustrade?

The number of wires required depends on the height, spacing and application of the balustrade. As a general rule, gaps should not exceed the relevant requirements under UK Building Regulations. We can talk you through the options based on your project.

What size wire do you supply?

The standard rigging wire we recommend for balustrades is 4mm diameter, although other diameters can be supplied where specified.

Stainless Steel Handrails

Can I buy handrails and fittings online?

Yes. Stainless steel handrails and balustrade fittings can be bought online, subject to the product type and options required.

How long are your handrails?

The maximum single-length handrails supplied are generally 6 metres. Handrails can also be cut or joined to suit the required length.

What diameter are the handrails?

Our stainless steel handrails are available in outside diameters of 42.4mm, 48.3mm and 50.8mm.

How thick are the handrails?

The wall thickness depends on the tube size. As a guide, 42.4mm tube has a 2mm wall thickness, 48.3mm tube has a 2.6mm wall thickness, and 50.8mm tube has a 3mm wall thickness.

Are the handrails straight?

Yes, standard handrails are straight. Curved, spiral or circular sections may be possible using specialist tube bending, depending on the requirements of the project.

How are the handrail ends finished?

Handrail ends can be finished with a range of accessories and fittings. Ends are satin or brushed finished to match the stainless steel tube.

Are the brackets moveable?

Yes, but moving brackets will usually require new mounting holes to be drilled and tapped.

What grades of stainless steel do you use?

We use commercial grades of stainless steel, typically AISI 304 for internal applications and AISI 316 for external applications. The most suitable grade depends on the environment and intended use.

Do you sell chrome handrails?

No. We supply stainless steel handrails and balustrades. A mirror finish can often look similar to chrome, but it is not the same as a chrome-plated rail.

Building Regulations & Safety

Do your rails comply with Building Regulation requirements?

The designer and installer are responsible for ensuring the finished installation complies with all relevant Building Regulation requirements. When correctly assembled and fixed using suitable materials and reinforcement where required, our systems can be suitable for domestic and light commercial use. Please contact us for guidance on commercial applications.

How high should my balustrade be?

Balustrade height depends on the application and location. As a general guide, guarding is often required at 1100mm high, or 900mm high on raking sections such as stairs, but current UK Building Regulations should always be checked for the specific project.

Where should I measure from?

For a replacement handrail, measure the existing handrail if it is suitable. For a new balustrade or handrail project, please send a simple dimensioned sketch, layout or drawing so we can understand the requirements.

Outdoor & Commercial Use

Are the handrails suitable for outdoor use?

Yes, stainless steel handrails can be suitable for outdoor use. Please let us know the intended location when ordering so the most appropriate grade of stainless steel can be specified. As a general guide, AISI 304 is commonly used internally, while AISI 316 is better suited to external or higher-corrosion environments.

What are the most popular exterior uses?

Popular outdoor uses include decking rails, garden balustrades, swimming pool surrounds, parapet wall balustrades, balconies, patios, terraces and other external areas.

Can you come out on site and measure up?

In most cases, we ask customers to send a simple dimensioned sketch, layout or drawing, along with photos where helpful. We can then review the requirements and advise whether a site visit is needed. Commercial installations may require a site visit by appointment.

Do you provide handrail systems for shops and commercial premises?

Yes. Our handrail and balustrade systems can be suitable for shopfitting, construction, architectural projects and commercial premises, either on a supply-only basis or as part of a wider project requirement.

Do you supply commercial stainless steel fittings?

Yes. We supply stainless steel fittings for a wide range of uses, from home DIY projects through to commercial, shopfitting and industrial applications.

Need advice on a balustrade
or handrail project?

Whether you need a glass balustrade for a commercial space, a made-to-measure handrail for a home renovation, or advice on the right system for your project, Seagull Balustrades can help.

FAQ