The B20 system comes with a variety of infills types. This article looks at the different options and ranks them in an ascending scale according to the balustrade linear metre rate. The article will outline areas that can impact cost to enable specifiers and designers to make informed decisions in line with building regulations.
No infill (Fig. 1 below)
Typically providing a handrail for small stairs where the balustrade isn’t required to protect a drop.
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Wire infills (Fig. 2 below)
Typically used in commercial developments. This system can’t be used in residential developments as the barrier would be considered climbable)
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Stainless mid-rails (Fig. 3 below)
Again, an option in commercial environments. When a lot of mid-rails are used this can cause cost to increase significantly.
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Vertical bars (Fig. 4 below)
This option can be used in all environments and often suits residential stair cores.
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Glass infills (Fig. 5 below)
This is a more architectural option and is considered the top end of the B20 range. 10mm toughened heat-soaked glass is the most cost-effective option with laminated glass and other glazing options costing circa £60 per linear metre more than monolithic glazing.
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Perforated infill (Fig. 6 below)
This is typically used on balconies but can also be an option for stairs. If the requirement is for balconies, it may be worth considering the B30 Frame and Infill option as the rates are comparable and the B30 system is a more seamless option.
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- Fig. 1 – No Infill
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- Fig. 2 – Wire Infills
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- Fig. 3 – Stainless Mid-Rail Infills
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- Fig. 4 – Vertical Bar Infill
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- Fig. 5 – Glass Infill
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- Fig. 6 – Perforated Infill
Other configurations that can increase the cost of your balustrade system are as follows:
- Offset handrails – Required where a stair wreath is too small to enable a clear hand width around an inline handrail.
- Powder coated finishes – Typically, this increases the cost of the balustrade as the stainless-steel system has a powder coat finish on it. The exception to this is a vertical bar system where the balustrade posts are typically provided with a powder coat finish as standard to match the infill bars.
- Differing handrail materials – Using timber or other handrail finishes will increase the rate of the balustrade system.
- Polished stainless steel – This is essential in corrosive environments, such as coastal properties or leisure centres. However, there is cost implications for this and it can typically add around 10-20% on to the linear metre rate.
If detailed linear metre rates are required, please contact us for more details. BA Systems provides a full and comprehensive design, manufacture and install service of our balustrade and handrail products and systems.
Find out more about us on this link here or contact one our technical consultants for no-obligation advice on how to correctly specify balustrade systems for a wide variety of sectors and applications.
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