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Juliet balconies can add a beautiful touch to your property, but it’s important to ensure you prioritise health and safety during the installation process. Read on to discover some practical considerations to keep in mind when installing a Juliet balcony.
Consider safety first
As with any construction work, you will need to adhere to Building Regulations when installing a Juliet balcony. Juliet balconies fall under Part K of the Building Regulations Act 2000.
Remember:
● Gaps in any railings are to be no more than 100mm.
● The top of the balcony must be a minimum of 1100mm from standing floor level.
A railing that doesn’t conform to these rules is not up to British Standards and is therefore unsafe. Additionally, should an inspector ever see it, they will require it to be corrected at your cost.
Choose the right position
If you’ve made the decision to install a Juliet balcony in your home, the first thing you’ll need to do is create the opening. This is because you’re not likely to already have French windows high up without an existing railing (although this balcony has been fitted across a sash window).
It's important to take the time to carefully select the position and size of the opening:
● There should be no clash with any service or utility lines.
● Consider the location of rainwater downpipes, soil and vent pipes (outside or inside the wall), water and heating pipes, and cables.
● Make sure you allow enough room either side of the opening for fixing the railing.
● Don’t plan these too close to the edge of a wall or another opening, such as a window.
Think about character and design
With the important practicalities under control, you can now begin to choose your style. It’s a good idea to look to the character of your home and complement that with your choice, remembering that a Juliet balcony is a feature that’s viewed from inside and outside the house. There are plenty of both modern and traditional options available on the market so you are guaranteed to find the right choice for you. If the external architecture and interior design of your home are different, be prepared to try a fusion look with your balcony choices.
Here at TSS Balustrade Centre, our Juliet balconies are of the finest calibre and were made with both functionality and safety in mind. They can be fastened to the window frame, reveal, or even the façade - whether you’re after a modern juliet balcony or something more traditional, we’ve got you covered. Don’t hesitate to speak with a knowledgeable staff member to find a suitable option that meets your needs and requirements.