FAQ
Q. Can I install the system myself?
A. The majority of the system slots and glues together, although some drilling may be required. We are able to ease the installation by cutting and drilling to your exact specifications for you. Alternatively, ask about the SWR installation service.
Q. Are there different types of stainless steel available?
A. All of our products are available in both AISI304 stainless steel or Marine Grade AISI316 stainless steel. These grades relate to the chemical composition of the stainless steel. AISI316 is more commonly known as a “Marine Grade” stainless steel due to its higher level of nickel and the addition of molybdenum and is more durable in harsh environments. Therefore, AISI316 stainless steel is generally recommended for external applications and AISI304 for internal use.
Q. How can I have the steel balustrade finished?
A. Our products are generally finished in a 320 grit finish. This is often referred to as “satin polished”, “dull finish” or “brushed finish” stainless steel. They can also be provided in a bright mirror finish if required. These finishes are achieved within the polishing process. The 320 grit finish that we generally supply is one of the highest grades of finish available. It ensures the steel is as smooth as possible and therefore as durable as possible.
Q. How do I maintain the Steel Balustrade?
A. Stainless steel is one of the most durable options for an internal or external handrail or balustrade system. However it will still require some maintenance in order to sustain its initial appearance. How often will depend upon the location and application. For example, systems installed in areas with high levels of contamination (such as city centres or near the sea) or near water (swimming pools or boats) may require more frequent cleaning than those in a rural area. However a good chemical cleaner will remove any contamination that may potentially affect the durability of the stainless steel.
Q. Do the various systems meet building regulations?
A. British Standards Institute Testing
Due to the flexibility of our balustrade systems they can be used in a wide range of domestic and commercial applications. Current Building Regulations require varying strengths of these systems depending on the application, and therefore we regularly test with the British Standards Institute to ensure our systems achieve the loadings in these requirements.
The Uniformly Distributed Load (U.D.L) that the systems can withstand will depend on the diameter and wall thickness of the tube as well as the spacing of the upright posts within a system. We will help recommend the safest and most suitable set up for your specific needs and can provide test certificates for your piece of mind.
Building Regulations
As with any new development or renovation of an existing property, building regulations are a key factor to consider to ensure compliance, and more importantly the safety of any balustrade or handrail system that is installed. Although the final decision will be the responsibility of the customer along with the building inspector we are more than happy to help you discuss your needs in relation to these regulations
Strength
Different applications will require different load requirements. Our systems are tested with the s Institute to ensure we are able to provide the appropriate strength system for the appropriate use. Test certificates are available.
Handrail Height
Handrail height can vary depending on the use. Due to the flexibility of our system this can easily be altered to whatever height is required.
Infill Options
There are a number of factors to consider when deciding on the appropriate infill option. Again, we always advise that you speak to your local authority before installing the system. However the following is worth considering; the thickness of glass, the size of gap around the edge of the glass, whether to use horizontal or vertical running wire or bar and the spacing between the wire or rod.
A. The majority of the system slots and glues together, although some drilling may be required. We are able to ease the installation by cutting and drilling to your exact specifications for you. Alternatively, ask about the SWR installation service.
Q. Are there different types of stainless steel available?
A. All of our products are available in both AISI304 stainless steel or Marine Grade AISI316 stainless steel. These grades relate to the chemical composition of the stainless steel. AISI316 is more commonly known as a “Marine Grade” stainless steel due to its higher level of nickel and the addition of molybdenum and is more durable in harsh environments. Therefore, AISI316 stainless steel is generally recommended for external applications and AISI304 for internal use.
Q. How can I have the steel balustrade finished?
A. Our products are generally finished in a 320 grit finish. This is often referred to as “satin polished”, “dull finish” or “brushed finish” stainless steel. They can also be provided in a bright mirror finish if required. These finishes are achieved within the polishing process. The 320 grit finish that we generally supply is one of the highest grades of finish available. It ensures the steel is as smooth as possible and therefore as durable as possible.
Q. How do I maintain the Steel Balustrade?
A. Stainless steel is one of the most durable options for an internal or external handrail or balustrade system. However it will still require some maintenance in order to sustain its initial appearance. How often will depend upon the location and application. For example, systems installed in areas with high levels of contamination (such as city centres or near the sea) or near water (swimming pools or boats) may require more frequent cleaning than those in a rural area. However a good chemical cleaner will remove any contamination that may potentially affect the durability of the stainless steel.
Q. Do the various systems meet building regulations?
A. British Standards Institute Testing
Due to the flexibility of our balustrade systems they can be used in a wide range of domestic and commercial applications. Current Building Regulations require varying strengths of these systems depending on the application, and therefore we regularly test with the British Standards Institute to ensure our systems achieve the loadings in these requirements.
The Uniformly Distributed Load (U.D.L) that the systems can withstand will depend on the diameter and wall thickness of the tube as well as the spacing of the upright posts within a system. We will help recommend the safest and most suitable set up for your specific needs and can provide test certificates for your piece of mind.
Building Regulations
As with any new development or renovation of an existing property, building regulations are a key factor to consider to ensure compliance, and more importantly the safety of any balustrade or handrail system that is installed. Although the final decision will be the responsibility of the customer along with the building inspector we are more than happy to help you discuss your needs in relation to these regulations
Strength
Different applications will require different load requirements. Our systems are tested with the s Institute to ensure we are able to provide the appropriate strength system for the appropriate use. Test certificates are available.
Handrail Height
Handrail height can vary depending on the use. Due to the flexibility of our system this can easily be altered to whatever height is required.
Infill Options
There are a number of factors to consider when deciding on the appropriate infill option. Again, we always advise that you speak to your local authority before installing the system. However the following is worth considering; the thickness of glass, the size of gap around the edge of the glass, whether to use horizontal or vertical running wire or bar and the spacing between the wire or rod.
