What to Consider When Choosing a Balcony Balustrade

Balcony balustrades are essential for safety, but they also help define the style, comfort and openness of a space that’s often exposed, visible and closely connected to both the home and the outdoors. From small Juliet balconies to full-size terraces, the balustrade plays a central role in how a balcony is used and experienced.

This guide takes a closer look at suitable designs, key regulations, and what to consider when choosing a balustrade for your balcony.

Different Types of Balconies – Different Needs

Not all balconies are the same, and neither are the requirements for the balustrade. In practice, the right solution depends on the size, height and placement of the balcony.

Here are some common types:

• Juliet balconies: Narrow or shallow platforms, usually outside a full-height door or window. These typically require a front-mounted balustrade system, often made of glass.
• Cantilevered balconies: Projecting slabs or structures that need a strong edge barrier.
• Roof terraces: Larger balconies with open sides, where wind and visibility matter more.
• Inset or recessed balconies: Sheltered within the building’s facade – allowing for more flexible balustrade styles.

Each of these benefits from different approaches in terms of material, mounting and height.

Balcony Balustrade Height in the UK

According to UK building regulations, a balcony must have a protective barrier if the drop is greater than 600 mm. The minimum required height for a balustrade on external balconies is:

• 1100 mm from finished floor level

This applies to both private and communal balconies. On roof terraces and exposed locations, taller balustrades or integrated wind protection may also be considered – as long as they comply with visibility and load-bearing requirements.

Glass and Metal Balustrades for Balcony Use

The most commonly used materials for balcony balustrades are:

• Glass: Provides a clear view, blocks wind, and creates a modern appearance. Can be frameless, tinted or frosted for privacy.
• Aluminium or steel: Often used for posts, clamps or full-frame balustrades. Lightweight and corrosion-resistant.
• Wire or rod infills: Horizontal or vertical steel wires offer a light and minimal aesthetic, though not always suitable for higher balconies due to climb risk.
• Perforated metal or sheet panels: Used where airflow and partial visibility are preferred.

The choice of material affects not just appearance, but also how the balcony feels to use – open or enclosed, warm or technical, exposed or private.

Balcony Balustrade Ideas Based on View and Privacy

A balcony is often one of the most exposed parts of a building – facing wind, rain, direct sunlight and temperature shifts. That makes durability important, but so is the visual and spatial experience.

Key design factors to consider include:

• How much view do you want to preserve?
  Frameless glass panels maximise openness.

• Do you need shielding from wind or neighbouring buildings?
  Frosted glass or panels can improve comfort without closing off the space.

• Is the balcony in full sun or near the coast?
  Powder-coated aluminium and stainless steel are better suited for harsh conditions.

It’s also worth thinking about how the balustrade connects to the facade – whether it should blend in or contrast, and how it relates to doors, windows and cladding.

Tailoring the Balustrade to the Balcony

There is no single “best” balustrade for balconies – only the one that fits the context. A compact urban balcony might benefit from slimline posts and clear glass, while a countryside terrace may call for taller glass with tinted finishes. In modern buildings, the balustrade is often part of a visual rhythm; in heritage settings, it may need to follow planning restrictions.

Balustrade systems for balconies are available in a wide range of designs – from decorative steel patterns to sleek, frameless glass setups.

At Balustradedesign, we offer balcony balustrades made to measure – ensuring the right fit for both regulations and design goals, across all types of balconies and facades.