Structural Calculations
Involving a structural engineer in your balustrade project
DioMet work alongside architects, commercial clients, site managers, designers, project managers and members of the public in a range of circumstances- so we are used to dealing with differing levels of expectations and industry knowledge when discussing and creating our glass balustrade systems. There is no doubting that all glass balustrade systems must be fit for purpose and structurally sufficient to provide suitable edge protection, but when should a structural engineer be involved?
In the new build commercial world, most glass balustrade systems are specified on architects drawings and all fixing details have been pre-calculated and considered at design stage. Basically this means that the base construction that the glass balustrade will affix to has already been considered and calculated accordingly - after all, our glass balustrade systems are only going to be as strong as what they are fixed to.All Dio-Mets glass balustrade systems are fully tested to the relevant point loadings but the test results will always indicate a suitable solid fixing surface.
In commercial renovations or private residences however, the fixing surface is often unknown, assumed or not calculated for the attachment of a glass balustrade. It is at this point that we strongly recommend the involvement of a structural engineer to provide peace of mind that the base surface is capable of supporting the balustrade in question. Where any balustrade has a unique detail or design that is outside of the standard calculated system, this should also be checked for structural conformity by your engineer prior to manufacture.
The prospect may seem daunting to a DIYer and often the common sense approach is to consult your builder for advice. Keeping in mind that the balustrade will be solid if it is fixed back to a solid surface. Should you need assistance with structural calculations, DioMet work closely with both glass engineers and steel engineers and can liaise on your behalf for a nominal cost.
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