Building Regulations

- The building regulations for your balustrade will differ based on its intended use and the occupancy of the building where it is installed. Below are answers to frequently asked questions to help ensure your balustrade complies with building regulations. For further assistance, you can contact our technical team.

How high should my balustrade be?

- For a single-occupancy residential home, the balustrade height for landings, ramps, edges of internal floors, or stairs should be 900mm from the floor level. For external balconies (including Juliet balconies), decking, and roof edges, the balustrade height should be 1100mm from the floor level. This measurement is taken from the finished floor level to the top of the balustrade.

Do I need a handrail?

- A handrail is required if the balustrade is protecting against a fall of 600mm or more unless laminated glass is used. Laminated glass consists of two glass panes bonded together with an interlayer, ensuring that if one pane fails, the other remains intact. This type of glass is considered safer than toughened glass. If a handrail is used, it should be securely attached to the glass.

What is a line load test?

- A line load test measures the pressure per meter that a balustrade can withstand before it starts to shift within its fixing. The balustrade should not move more than 25mm under this pressure, which is typically expressed in kilonewtons per meter.

Will my balustrade meet the required line load test?

- Many of our balustrade systems have been tested. Our technical team can inform you whether your balustrade meets the necessary line load test requirements and can provide a test certificate upon request. The test results depend on the type of balustrade and the material to which it is fixed.

What line load test will my balustrade need to pass?

- The required line load test for your balustrade depends on the type of building and its occupancy level. The following table outlines the necessary line load test for your specific balustrade.

For any additional questions or to ensure your balustrade meets the required standards, please reach out to our technical team.

For more information on building regulations, please refer to the attached and also do your own compliance

https://www.labc.co.uk/sites/default/files/EXT.Approved-Document-A-Structure-ENG-2013.JMCN_.v1.200417.pdf  - 

https://www.labc.co.uk/sites/default/files/2020-11/EXT-ADB_Vol1_Dwellings_2019_edition_inc_2020_amendments-261120.pdf

https://www.labc.co.uk/sites/default/files/2021-02/EXT-approved-document-regulation-7-2018.pdf

https://www.labc.co.uk/sites/default/files/EXT.Approved-Document-K-Protection-from-Falling-ENG-2013.JMCN_.v1.200417.pdf