Project Portfolio: Glass Balustrade for Flat Roof Extensions
Project Overview
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Client: Level Up Developments, Milton Keynes
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Application: Flat Roof Porch Extension / Waterproof Membrane Roof
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Materials: Galvanized & Powder-Coated Steel (RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey)
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Glass Spec: Structural Toughened Safety Glass Infill
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Safety Standard: Fully UKCA Certified (BS 6180 Compliant)
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Service: Design, Manufacture, and Professional Installation (Also available for DIY Supply)
The Waterproofing Challenge
For this high-end renovation by Level Up Developments in Milton Keynes, the primary obstacle was the porch extension's flat roof. Covered with a specialized waterproof membrane, traditional floor-mounted balustrades were not an option, as drilling into the surface would risk catastrophic water ingress and structural damage.
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Innovative Engineering: Dio-Met deployed our specialized cavity-wall balustrade system. This design allows for a secure installation without a single fixing entering the balcony floor or roof base.
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Structural Load Transfer: The system is engineered to transfer all structural loads back to the building's masonry through the substantial handrail and base rail connections.
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Seamless Aesthetics: By removing the need for vertical posts and base fixings, the "Invisifix" system offers an uncluttered, modern aesthetic that maximizes light transfer and provides uninterrupted views for the Milton Keynes residence.
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Durable Finish: All metalwork underwent our rigorous galvanizing and powder-coating process, ensuring a maintenance-free finish that withstands the elements for decades.
Technical Expert Insight: Waterproofing Integrity & Structural Fixings
When installing balustrades on flat roof extensions, the "Achilles heel" is always the floor fixings. Puncturing a waterproof membrane—especially near a ponding area or drainage point—is a recipe for structural rot. At Dio-Met, we solve this by utilizing a side-fixed cavity system. We use bespoke stand-off spacers that bridge the gap between the internal masonry and the external render or brickwork. By securing the base-rail horizontally into the house structure rather than vertically into the roof, we ensure the membrane remains 100% intact. This method not only preserves your warranty on the roofing material but provides a superior structural anchor point, meeting UKCA standards for line-load resistance without compromising the building's thermal or moisture envelope.
Why Choose a Dio-Met Balcony System?
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World-Leading Manufacturer: We are the direct supplier of architectural metalwork, shipping fully assembled kits nationwide and worldwide from our Sheffield workshop.
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Simple Installation: Our systems are designed for straightforward installation. Because we solve the "waterproofing math" in our design phase, any competent tradesperson can install the system without specialized roofing tools.
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30-Year Heritage: We bring three decades of Sheffield steelwork expertise to every project, ensuring professional quality in every weld.
Explore More from Dio-Met
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Glass Balustrade Webshop: Browse our range of postless and framed railing designs.
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Wine Cellar Doors: Explore our world-renowned electric and manual glass floor hatches.
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See All Projects: See more of what we do!
Contact the Flat Roof Specialists
Concerned about balcony fixings on your new extension? Contact our Sheffield workshop for a technical consultation on side-fixing solutions and nationwide delivery.
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Email: sales@diometonline.co.uk
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Phone: 0114 243 9009
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Direct Manufacturer: Innovative solutions from our family to yours.
