Released On 14th Aug 2013

Balcony Safety Barrier

I needed to fit a safety rail around a bedroomCut balcony. This had to be done quickly and economically but it also had to look good. I chose to work with the system provided by Fixings and Fittings because it was very cost and time effective in comparison to having something custom manufactured, modular and easily adapted to my requirements.

With a little imagination and sound advice from Phil and Laura I was able to use existing fittings for alternative functions to suit my requirements.

Fixing to the existing coping stones had to be solid but could not penetrate the 60mm stones as this would compromise the waterproofing of the existing balcony. This was achieved by using the 4 point fixing 131 round foot plate instead of the conventional 2 point fixing 132 obround foot plate to secure the upright posts to the coping stones. I used 40mm stainless steel screws and achieved a very solid and visually pleasing result.

So as not to disrupt a magnificent view I used a tensioned plastic coated stainless steel wire across the seaward side of the balcony as the mid horizontal instead of C42 tube. This was attached to the up rights by adapting the usage of the 173M single swivel combination male fitting and using the 182 hook and 179 locking ring.

The 2 sides I did more conventionally with C42 tube infill and solid fixing to the gable end house wall.

It is very solid and pleasing to the eye. Being modular any section can be replaced individually and it can be adapted or extended should such a requirement arise.

The house owner is very happy with the result.

Andy Friswell