Balustrades are stunning additions to any home or commercial space. Whether you install them on a staircase, balcony, or patio, they add safety and beauty to any area.
However, regular maintenance and care are needed to make sure your balustrade remains strong, functional, and clean.
Glass balustrades, in particular, can mark and smudge, disturbing the beauty of this feature. Today, TuffX will walk you through some simple steps and guidelines for ensuring your balustrade remains in good condition for many years.
Why Regular Maintenance Matters
Balustrades are designed to increase safety in the home, acting as a barrier between a structure and the drop below.
Keeping your glass balustrade in good shape will help to prevent general wear and tear, reducing the risk of accidents and injury.
This is especially important for homes with children or elderly family members. Regular maintenance can also help you save on repairs or replacements.
General Cleaning Tips for Balustrades
Glass balustrades can accumulate dust, smudges, and fingerprints over time. Any metal components are also susceptible to rust and corrosion.
By planning a regular cleaning routine, you can prevent dirt and grime buildup, especially for balustrades that are installed in gardens or balconies.
Cleaning Glass Balustrades
- Use a glass cleaner: Spray the surface with a specialised glass cleaner or a mild detergent mixed with warm water. Avoid harsh and abrasive chemicals, as they can scratch and damage the surface.
- Clean the glass surface: With a soft sponge or microfibre cloth, gently rub in the glass cleaner. Clean in circular motions to wipe off any smudges or stains.
- Clean around edges and corners: The edges and corners of glass balustrades can accumulate dirt and dust. Use a soft-bristled brush or cotton swab to clean these areas.
- Dry the glass with a cloth: Buff the glass for a streak-free finish using a lint-free and dry cloth.
Cleaning Metal Components
- Wipe down any metal parts: Rub away any fingerprints and dust with a damp cloth. Use a specialist cleaner for stainless steel to restore it to its natural shine.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Use PH-neutral cleaners to preserve the integrity of the metal parts. This will prevent corrosion and discolouration.
- Dry with a soft cloth: Leaving the metal to dry can lead to water spots and corrosion over time. To avoid this, wipe away any moisture with a soft cloth.
- Polish stainless steel: Use a non-abrasive polish designed for stainless steel handrails and fittings. Buff in the direction of the grain to avoid streaks.
- Get rid of tough stains: For tougher grime, use a mix of mild soap and water and gently scrub the metal with a soft cloth. Then rinse and dry accordingly.
Inspecting for Damage
One small problem can slowly unravel over time, diminishing the integrity of your balustrade.
That’s why it’s important to check for damage regularly and address any issues once they arrive. This will keep your balustrade safe, functional, and visually appealing.
Here are the main issues to look out for and how to treat them to prevent further damage:
Cracks or chips in the glass panels
Over time, glass balustrades can begin to develop small cracks and chips on the surface. This typically happens due to frequent use and stress on the structure.
To address this, do the following:
- Check each glass panel for signs of cracks, chips, and scratches.
- Inspect the edges of your balustrade closely, as these can face the most stress.
- Replace any glass panels with visible cracks as soon as possible.
Loose or damaged fittings
The fittings and connectors keep your balustrade stable and safe. If they become weak or loose, your balustrade risks falling apart.
- Examine the structure for any loose screws, brackets, or connectors. You can do this by pushing against the balustrade and seeing if it wobbles in any area.
- Tighten any loose screws or fittings immediately. If any parts are rusted or damaged, replace them with new fixtures.
- Check for rust or discolouration of any metal parts and replace them as soon as possible.
- If any fittings have shifted, check whether all the panels are properly aligned. If not, securely fasten them to the metal fittings.
Preventing Long-Term Wear
To prevent further damage in the future, apply protective coatings to your glass panels to repel water damage and dust.
You can also apply an anti-corrosion coating to any metal parts to resist corrosion and staining. If your balustrade includes moving components, such as hinges or adjustable fittings, apply a silicone spray or lubricant to keep them functioning smoothly.
For balustrades frequently exposed to harsh weather conditions outdoors, consider installing awnings or covers to protect them from damage. You can also apply a UV-resistant finish to protect the glass from sun exposure.
Invest in High-Quality Balustrades Today
Proper protective coatings, consistent lubrication, and frequent inspections will help you minimise damage and increase the lifespan of your balustrade.
Professional installation is also a contributing factor to ensuring your balustrade remains in great condition for years to come.
Contact TuffX today to enquire about our high-quality balustrades for commercial and residential builds.