Why Your Glass Railing Should Be Heat Soaked

Why Your Glass Railing Should Be Heat Soaked

Here at Invisirail, our glass undergoes several stages before we consider it ready to be used in our railing system. This post talks about a very important step called heat soaking.

When glass is made, manufacturers try to ensure the glass is as pure as possible. However, sometimes a few contaminants go undetected, even after the glass is tempered (a heating process designed to strengthen it). Nickel-based specks from raw glass or rollers lead to impurities that are so small, they can’t be seen by the human eye. These tiny particles are called Nickel-Sulfide Inclusions. We want to find panels with these imperfections, because they have a higher risk of shattering in the field (usually during or after installation) when weather conditions heat or cool the glass.

To find these pieces, we place our glass in a 265˚C oven for 6 hours. This soaking of the glass at high heat causes the inclusions to change shape, shattering the panel. When we are done, any panel still intact is ready for use in our railing system. Our heat soaking machine can handle 2800 kg (for reference, that’s 72 of our 10mm D panels, or almost 375 linear feet of glass!). This lets us treat each and every panel, and the process is 99.99% effective at removing inclusions. This means our glass is some of the purest available. 

Not all railing merchants use heat soaking to improve their product. Ontario building code only requires it when the system has no top rail. But even so, there is no North American standard for heat soaking. To maintain quality, we use a European standard, requiring specialists from Spain to personally certify our oven on site. This extra step guarantees that all our customers receive the safest possible product. The combination of tempering and heat-soaking is also used in the creation of glass for other demanding applications, like passenger vehicle windows, cellphone screens, and bulletproof glass. We also use it on our shower door glass, even though it is not required. These extra measures make sure our customers get both safety and style.

The Value of Stainless Steel Railings

Why Stainless Steel Glass Railing Systems Are Incredibly Valuable

Though it might seem like a trivial part of the structure, a stairwell plays an important part in the interior design of any space. It makes both commercial and residential facilities look stylish and memorable. At the same time, it acts as an important functional element. Obviously, rail systems should not only be attractive, but also safe. Stainless steel, in particular, is a material that will be both visually appealing and highly functional.

Stainless steel is highly valuable in the production of railing systems, because it is:

Durable

Stainless steel can be very beneficial for modern interiors. The primary reason to equip your facilities with stainless steel railing is the impressive durability it brings. It is one of the strongest metals able to support heavy loads. In addition, it is damage resistant and is almost impossible to scratch.

Corrosion Proof

Another great benefit is the long lifespan of the product. Since stainless steel can resist corrosion, it can remain as good as new for many years to come. Even if your stainless steel railing system is installed in the garden, it will still remain shiny for years after installation. Note that outdoor stainless steel and glass railings are usually combined with glass inserts – another material that can resist moisture and oxidation.

Easy to Maintain

Stainless steel and glass do not require any special care. They are incredibly easy to maintain, which is a great benefit, especially when compared to wooden systems. Unlike stainless steel, wood railings have to be polished and repainted on a regular basis. With stainless steel systems all you need is a simple wipe.

Versatile

It is not at all difficult to mold stainless steel, which is why such railing systems can have multiple design patterns. If you are unhappy with the standard selection, you can always order a custom design and curve your banisters however you want. The same goes for glass – it can have many shapes, colors, and types.

Safe

The combination of glass and stainless steel owes some of its popularity to the changes in civil construction. Open banisters are no longer welcome in modern homes – especially if the family has or is planning to have children. That is why safety glass has become a primary ‘filling’ element. It is transparent and does not cluster the facilities. Moreover, glass is much safer than most people think.

Nowadays, tempered glass is created according to the highest safety regulations. More precisely, the glass is tempered at very high temperatures which guarantees increased comfort, undeniable safety, and of course – impeccable style.

Glass fillings can be particularly beneficial for new parents because they cover all of the open spaces in the railing system. Even the most prankish and cunning kid has no chance of getting caught in the rail. Even though there will be edges, they will be smooth and safe – as regulated by modern standards of tempered glass production.

To Conclude

Plenty of manufacturers can offer you some interesting ideas when it comes to the combination of aluminum and glass deck railing systems. Such a combination creates a memorable contrast – heavy glass with light aluminum looks very unusual.

It possible to order aluminum framing of any shape or color – in fact, the sky is your limit here. The mixture of glass and aluminum looks very modern, which is another undeniable plus. More importantly, the structure is designed to last and does not require any special care!

The glass color can also be adjusted to your needs. Transparent glass is definitely a classic. However, more and more people install tinted glass – the hue can vary from common gray and blue to less ordinary red or yellow.

Tinted glass is great for those homeowners who enjoy light arrangements, but would still prefer to see the space between their rails filled. Another great feature of tinted glass is that it glistens cheerfully with every sunshine ray.

Alternatively, you could choose a wooden frame. It creates cozy, domestic atmosphere and is perfect for traditional interiors. However, make sure to calculate the load correctly. Glass inserts fit into wooden frames with the help of special rubber cushions.

The Hidden Benefits of Glass Railing Systems

The Hidden Benefits of Glass Railing Systems

As a deck owner, you will already be familiar with the experience of spending sunny days and cool nights with your family and friends in the outdoors. It provides you the relaxation you need after a hard day’s work, or entertainment for your neighbors and guests. However, your deck will always be at the mercy of the elements. It will soon wear down because of the effects of moisture, mildew, grime, dirt, insects and even the UV rays from the sun. When ignored, your deck may be damaged beyond repair.

Sooner or later, you will need to perform inspections, repairs or maintenance on your deck. Since this routine primes your deck for potential upgrades, you can start projects as soon as your cleaning task is completed. This article will guide you through upgrading your deck and will explain the benefits. We’ll also tell you how to find competitive rates for deck materials and for decking contractors.

Why Upgrade To A Glass Railing System?

One of the simplest but best upgrades for any deck is the installation of a glass railing system. With basic carpentry experience, you can do this project yourself, saving on costs. If you plan to start a DIY glass railing project, then your first step is to locate the right materials for your desired improvement. 

When you choose the materials, pay attention to the kind of glass you are purchasing. For a deck improvement project, safety-tempered glass is preferred. This is because this type of glass is meant to be resistant to wind pressure, moisture and contact. Plus, if the glass breaks, the fragments will not be sharp and dangerous.

If you are hesitant to do the upgrade on your own, experts recommend choosing decking professionals to the work for you. When choosing, make sure that aside from getting the best rate, the contractor has the proper licenses and insurance. Hire professionals such as those from Invisirail, who are known for their experience and promptness. To make the final decision, ask them about their experience installing glass railings.

This upgrade project will have varying costs, depending on the characteristics of your deck. The complexity of the design and the size and shape of your deck are the main cost factors.

For example, more experienced contractors are needed for decks that are curved. Thus, it may cost more. Plus, if there is already an existing railing system that needs to be removed or if only a portion that needs to be replaced, then these factors will also affect the cost. Be as exhaustive as possible with your definition of the project scope to your contractors. The more detail, the more accurate your project estimate will be.

With the proper materials purchased and the professionals hired, you are ready to discover the potential of a glass railing system. In the following sections, we discuss four main benefits of the system.

Unobstructed Views

The most obvious effect is the seamless view your glass railings will provide. Even within the confines of your deck, you can see much more of the outdoors, which is likely why you built a deck in the first place. While standard wooden rails may obstruct your view while watching your children in the yard, or preventing you from seeing nature at its finest, glass railing does not have problems. Your deck will be significantly improved both functionally and aesthetically.

Safety

Without railings, you run the risk of someone falling off the ledge and getting injured. Without insurance to cover this type of accident, you may open yourself to legal disputes and fines. Protect yourself and your finances by investing in these railings. On a more practical note, wooden railings are notorious for splintering and with the glass version you completely avoid them.

Cover

Especially nearing the winter season or windy days, cold air may mean discomfort and discourage you from using your deck. With glass railings, you can protect yourself and enjoy your deck in any weather.

Fast Installation and Affordability

Among the many upgrades that you can make for your deck, glass railings are one of the most affordable and fastest to complete. Relatively few quantities of material are needed and if you find a system like Invisirail, with good glass dealers, you can get a very competitive price. Since you may only need to replace select portions of the system, you can further trim down costs.

If you hire a professional, they can finish the installation of the entire system within a few days. This means that you’ll have your deck back in service in almost no time at all.

Final Thoughts

Installing a brand new glass railing system is one of the best upgrades for your existing desk. Aside from allowing you to gaze to the beauty of nature, you are also made safe from the elements and potential injuries. With the benefits of the glass railings and the guide to find the right materials and professionals, you will soon find yourself with an upgraded appreciation of your deck!