Solid Balustrades
Don’t get us wrong, a solid balustrade is a great design feature in any home and can complement almost any look with ease. However, in an area in which natural light may be at a premium, it may not necessarily be the best choice.
As we all know, light is the key to making a space appear larger than it actually is – something every homeowner strives for. So, if you’re struggling for light and your stairwell seems dark and dingy, you may want to think about a balustrade replacement.
Staircases come in all shapes and sizes, and balustrades can be made from glass, metal, or timber. Each of these materials can be used alone or in combination with the others. To find the material and design that’s perfect for your building, just take a look at our wide selection of staircase solutions, and feel free to get in touch with any questions you may have.
What are glass stair panels?
Glass stair panels provide an attractive and modern way to connect the base of your staircase to the handrail.
When we say ‘stair panels’, you may think of the ghastly, boxed-in look that was all the rage in the 1960s. However, those solid balustrades were usually wooden, and completely restricted light flow.
In contrast, the modern and stylish glass stair panels, supplied by Abbott-Wade, increase the flow of light in your hallways, making your home appear larger.
Replacing your solid balustrades with glass panels can add a contemporary touch to any home, regardless of its style or age. This is one of the many reasons why this fashionable design is a fixture in so many modern homes today.
Replace solid balustrades with glass panels
While solid balustrades serve the purpose of keeping the staircase safe and defined from other spaces within the home, they do so at the detriment of light and airflow.
Glass balustrades are used increasingly in many buildings due to their striking and functional appearance. But the benefits of switching from dated wooden spindles to elegant glass stair panels aren’t purely aesthetic. Whilst glass stair panels look incredibly stylish and can provide your staircase with an instant facelift, there are also many practical reasons to opt for glass panels. These include:
- Creating the illusion of more space due to letting light in. This gives your home an airier and more open feel.
- Safe and secure, toughened glass balustrades are a great option for those with children or pets, as there are no spindles for limbs to get trapped in.
- Glass is, perhaps surprisingly, far more durable than wood.
- Glass balustrades are much easier to keep clean than traditional wooden banisters, as there are no spindles to trap dust.
- Glass balustrades require hardly any maintenance – just a quick wipe down with soapy water once in a while to remove finger marks.
- Glass can be used in conjunction with other materials for great design versatility. You can choose to use wood or metal for the risers and handrails, and maybe go with coloured or patterned glass for a unique look.
Glass staircase design to replace solid balustrades
Our talented team of designers work with us to create and install each glass staircase, and they will discuss the full range of glass staircase design options with you prior to starting work. This way, you can be sure you know exactly what you’re getting from your glass staircase. Abbott Wade use only the finest materials whilst keeping the costs of our glass staircases as competitive as possible, to ensure you receive the best value for money.
The process of designing your dream staircase can feel overwhelming, with so many design options available, but our experts are on hand to help. If you have a particular idea for your replacement glass balustrades in mind, let us know! We can then discuss any logistical issues with you, and give you an idea of how your new glass staircase will look when it’s finished.
Customer reviews for replacement balustrades
A simple change from a solid stair banister to something more ‘fluid’ looking can completely transform a home. Don’t believe us? Check out the difference made in Mr Rose’s home (read more on his experience with Abbott-Wade), as his hall, stairs and landing were revolutionised. A compromise between Mr Rose himself and our team was made, so he could make a full transition from completely opaque to transparent sandblasted glass.
Sandblasted glass allows light to flow through the stairwell easily, but with a translucent quality that maintains privacy by obscuring the sightlines between upper and lower levels.
As you can see from the photos, these replacement balustrades made a huge difference. With the solid balustrade making way for a glass alternative, you can clearly notice the better light quality in the area, promoting a brighter living space.
The installation pictured on the left also involved large gallery balustrade replacement. This allowed an easier passage of light between the floors, so the inside of the home felt brighter and much larger.
How much does it cost to replace balustrades?
The cost of replacement balustrades can vary significantly depending on a number of factors. For example, what would you like your new balustrades to be made from – glass, timber or metal? Do you need your old balustrades to be removed, or is it just replacement spindles you’re after? These are the type of questions we’ll ask when you get in touch with us for a free, no-obligation quote.
Speak to us about replacement balustrades today
To speak to us about replacement balustrades, or anything staircase related, for that matter, simply give us a call on 01744 634 442 or email us at info@abbottwade.co.uk. Alternatively, you can fill out our online form with your requirements and a knowledgeable member of our team will get back to you shortly.
*All the ‘Before & After’ image blocks on this page are taken before and after a real Abbott-Wade installation, in UK homes visited by our installation teams. Some of the images may be taken at different stages of completion with carpets/decoration left unfinished.
