You’ve decided on installing glass railings for your deck renovation, indoor staircases, or upper balcony. Most likely, you have discussed what you want to accomplish aesthetically and functionally with your contractor. You expect to receive a blueprint or detailed plans on the design and installation timeline, but your contractor says you need to decide on several details before they can do that. 

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Choosing deck railing components for a glass base shoe railing system can be complicated for first-timers. This article will break down the factors you must consider and offer tips on making the best balcony glass railing selection for your home.  

What Is a Glass Base Shoe Railing System?

The base shoe railing system is the most popular choice when it comes to frameless glass railing systems, which generally remove the need for posts and/or rails by using clamps and other glass anchoring methods. 

Base shoe systems, in particular, hold glass panels in place by anchoring them inside a strong, continuous channel (called a “base shoe”) that runs on or along the edge of a deck or balcony. The earliest design of the base shoe was made to accommodate half-inch-thick tempered glass panels. Today, base shoes are often customized to suit whatever choice of glass the customer wants (tempered, frosted, tinted, etc., in various thicknesses). 

A base shoe can be exposed for aesthetic purposes, but for designers who want to create a completely frameless glass railing effect, the base shoe is embedded flush in the floor or deck with grout or silicone. This is one of the aesthetic matters you’ll need to consider when choosing deck railing styles for your home.

Benefits of Base Shoe Railing Systems

Many property developers and homeowners look into glass railings because of the structural and aesthetic benefits of base shoe railing systems:

• Modern-looking; fits the popular minimalist aesthetic
• Sturdy and reliable; offers balcony safety
• Makes indoor and outdoor spaces feel bigger and wider
• Creates a seamless, jointless effect for glass railings
• Compatible with laminated and tempered glass
• Lightweight; they don’t overload balconies and decks
• Faster and quicker to install than pure concrete railing
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor installations

Wet Glaze vs. Dry Glaze

To ensure the glass is firmly attached to the base shoe railing system, installers must opt for a wet glaze or dry glaze. 

• Wet Glaze Installation

The glass panel sits on top of a setting block in the base shoe molding, which ensures the glass is right in the middle of the base shoe with a bit of space on either side. Installers then pour cement, grout or silicone in these spaces and allow them to cure (harden) so that the glass is held in place. 

• Dry Glaze Installation

This method is faster and easier because it doesn’t include any wetwork. It uses extruded rubber or plastic components instead of cement, grout or liquid silicone to hold glass panels inside the base shoe. Aluminum or steel fasteners are also added at the base and along the sides of the glass for added stability and strength against strong winds and other external factors. 

Wet glaze has been the primary installation method for glass railings for decades, so contractors often recommend it for balconies or deck glass railings. However, dry glaze systems have undergone a lot of evolution over the years and now offer many advantages over wet glaze, especially for residential and DIY applications.

The table below compares the qualities and advantages of each installation type:

WET GLAZE DRY GLAZE Best for Which Location Typically used outdoors and in high-traffic areas.  Any system can be used indoors. Designs that include sealing gaskets, like ours, can also be used outdoors.  Ease of Installation Requires more time and manpower; should be installed during sunny, non-humid days. Faster, simpler and can be done regardless of the weather or season. Cost Labor costs are expensive because wet glazing is more labor-intensive and takes longer to do. Parts and materials may be more expensive than wet glaze railings, but the labor costs are cheaper because they are easier and faster to install.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Glass Base Shoe Railing System

Now that you know more about base shoe railing systems, let’s discuss other important factors for your balcony glass railing selection.

1. 1. Flooring Material: A base shoe railing system designed to be flush on the floor must be installed as such, especially if you’re going with a wet glaze. An extruded base may not be as sturdy, so you need to consider whether digging through your flooring or deck is possible.  
   2. Type of Glass: Your choice of glass dictates which installation and railing systems you can use. For example, laminated glass can be framed or frameless; but if you choose frameless, a dry glaze is the best way to install it. This is because sealants like concrete are incompatible with the materials used in laminating glass.

• Glass Dimensions and Weight: Glass thickness, size and weight are all crucial details in a balustrade, balcony or deck renovation. The combination of a shoe-base railing system and laminated glass is ideal. Still, you can explore additions like a top railing and upper glass fasteners if the panels go higher than usual. Leaning on tall glass panels may cause them to tilt over time. A top or cap rail will help anchor the glass panels and ensure they stay upright and stable.

• Time Constraints: Do you need to install glass railings as quickly as possible? If yes, then a dry-glazed frameless glass railing is your best choice. Alternatively, if you have a longer window for the project, you can consider a wet glaze, especially for outdoor glass railings.

• Landscape: A glass base shoe railing needs a stable base. Otherwise, the entire glass railing could be structurally compromised over time. It will be difficult to build a glass railing on a sloped path, for example, unless you have a lot of time and resources to spend constructing steps from the lower to the upper levels. 

• Location: If you’re installing a railing in an indoor or outdoor area that will potentially get exposed to a lot of water (i.e., rain, pool water, splashes from the shower), either a wet glaze system or a dry glaze system with rubber inserts for sealing the base shoe will be ideal.

• Budget: Money is one of the most critical factors in a glass railing project. You can save more on labor with a dry glaze, but you might spend more on the materials. The opposite is true with a wet glaze: labor is more expensive, but the materials might be cheaper. However, if you’re doing a wet glaze over a long stretch of glass railing, the cost of the cement or other sealants can also shoot up. Work out the costs of the materials and labor with your contractor to avoid financial headaches. 

• Local Building Guidelines: Check if your local building authority has released guidelines for glass railings to ensure your home will be up to code. Guidelines are based on the authority’s knowledge about your area’s soil composition and other environmental factors. Violating these guidelines could put your safety at risk, so verify your plans if you’re doing a DIY installation. 

How To Select the Right Glass Base Shoe Railing System for Your Deck or Balcony

Choosing a base shoe railing system is all about finding what works best for your property, design preferences, lifestyle and budget. Your situation may be unique from others, but you could still get insights by looking at what’s been done on other properties. Get inspired, then work with people whom you can trust to give sound advice about base shoe railing systems.

eGlass Railing can help you enjoy the full benefits of a base shoe railing system. We offer custom glass railing systems that address common industry issues like wind rattle resistance, durability, aesthetics and more. We have many products in stock, including tempered glass panels, and can ship upon order in most cases. 

Choosing the Right Glass Railing System: Standoff vs. Spigot vs. Base Shoe vs. Post System

In contemporary design, glass railings have become a go-to for homeowners and designers due to their sleek, modern aesthetic and ability to provide unobstructed views. However, choosing between different glass railing systems – Standoff, Spigot, Base Shoe, and Post – can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to break down these systems for you.

Standoff Systems

Standoff systems are known for their minimalistic and floating appearance. They involve drilling holes into the glass panels and attaching them to the structure using metal standoffs. This system is ideal for those who appreciate a clear, uninterrupted view with an edge of architectural sophistication.

For instance, imagine a home in downtown Toronto with a loft-style interior; a standoff system would seamlessly blend with the exposed brick and concrete, adding a chic industrial touch.

Spigot Systems

Spigots, often referred to as “mini-posts,” provide support to the glass from the bottom. This system is famous for outdoor use, such as pool fencing or deck railings, focusing on maximizing visibility and safety.

Picture a family home in Mississauga with a backyard pool, a spigot system surrounding the pool would ensure safety and allow a clear line of sight to the collection from the house, enhancing peace of mind for parents.

Base Shoe Systems

Base shoe or U-channel systems involve setting the glass panels into an aluminum shoe secured to the floor, creating a clean and continuous appearance. It’s an excellent choice for commercial spaces or modern homes where the aim is to create a seamless flow between areas.

Imagine an upscale restaurant in Ottawa, where a base shoe system would serve as a stylish divider between the dining area and the kitchen, allowing patrons to view the culinary magic without interfering with the chefs’ operations.

Post Systems

Post systems are the most traditional form of glass railings. They involve vertical posts or columns that hold the glass panels in place. This system offers the most design versatility, as posts can be made from various materials and finishes to match any aesthetic.

Consider a vintage-style home in Guelph, where a post system with wooden posts would blend perfectly with the home’s traditional design, adding a contemporary twist without detracting from the overall aesthetic.

Making the Right Choice for your Glass Railing Systems

Your choice of glass railing system will depend on several factors, including the style of your space, the location of the railing, and your personal preference. It’s essential to consider the overall design aesthetic of your property and how the railing system will fit into that.

Standoff systems tend to lean towards an industrial or minimalist design, while spigot systems are an excellent fit for outdoor spaces due to their durability and visibility. Base shoe systems offer a sleek and modern look, perfect for commercial properties or contemporary homes. Lastly, post systems provide the most versatility, fitting seamlessly into any design style.

Also, consider the maintenance and installation process. Standoff and spigot systems require precision in the drilling process. In contrast, base shoe systems need careful alignment during installation, and post systems require regular upkeep, especially if using materials like wood.

Regardless of your chosen system, all glass railing systems offer durability, safety, and an enhanced aesthetic appeal.

Here’s a comparison chart for the different glass railing systems:

Railing System Pros Cons Standoff System 1. Sleek, modern look.

2. Maximum transparency, unobstructed view.

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3. Strong and durable.

4. Easy to clean and maintain.

1. More complex installation.

2. Requires thicker glass.

3. Not ideal for curved or irregular surfaces.

Spigot System 1. Minimalistic design.

2. Easy and quick installation.

3. Versatility in installation options (can be installed into concrete, timber, steel).

4. Ideal for pool fences or decks.

1. May require regular checking and tightening.

2. Less ideal for very high installations due to reduced lateral strength.

Base Shoe System 1. Offers a nearly invisible look.

2. Suitable for both interior and exterior use.

3. Versatile and can accommodate a variety of glass types.
4. Highly durable and provides excellent stability.

1. More expensive due to the cost of the base shoe.

2. Installation can be more complex.

3. Needs professional installation for best results.

Post System 1. Traditional and versatile system.

2. Can accommodate changes in level and direction easily.

3. Ideal for larger, multi-level installations.

4. Can be used with or without handrails.

1. Posts can obstruct the view.

2. Requires regular maintenance to prevent corrosion.

3. Less modern look compared to other systems.

Remember, each project is unique, and the best system for your needs will depend on various factors, including your aesthetic preference, safety requirements, budget, and the specific conditions of your installation site. Consider all these aspects, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice when choosing your glass railing system.

Generally, all of these systems are designed to be safe and durable when installed correctly, and should be able to support a significant amount of weight. However, the specific weight limit would depend on the details of the design and installation, as well as the local building codes and regulations.

As for maintenance, all glass railing systems will require regular cleaning to keep the glass clear and the metal components free of dust and grime. Some systems may also require periodic tightening of the fasteners. The cost of this maintenance would depend largely on whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, as well as the specific products and tools used.

At Roble Glass & Railings, we’re committed to helping you make the best decision for your space. Our team of experts will guide you through the process, ensuring you choose the glass railing system that best suits your needs, budget, and design aesthetic.

Ready to transform your space with a glass railing system? Contact us at 647-674- or to schedule a consultation. Our team is prepared to assist you in making your vision a reality.

And remember, your journey with us doesn’t end with the installation. We’ll provide tips and guidance on maintaining your new glass railing system, ensuring it stays as stunning as the day it was installed.

We believe in keeping our clients informed and connected. Follow us on Instagram @roblehomes.ca for more design inspiration and installation showcases and to stay updated on our latest offerings. 

Don’t just dream about your ideal space; create it with Roble Glass & Railings. Let us help you redefine your world with the perfect glass railing system, adding an unparalleled blend of sophistication, safety, and openness to your home or commercial space. Your beautiful transformation awaits!

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