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In modern architectural design, the demand for unobstructed views and minimalist aesthetics has led to the rise of frameless glass balustrading. While there are various systems available, glass spigots remain a popular choice for these sleek installations.
Glass spigots are compact, high-performance, durable floor fittings that provide structural integrity without the visual bulk of traditional posts. They are commonly used without a handrail, perfect for the en vogue trend of handrail-less installations.
Drawing on technical specifications from our range of glass spigots, this blog explores why spigots are the preferred choice for professional installers and designers.
Glass spigots offer several technical and practical benefits over alternative mounting systems:
- No Glass Drilling Required: Our modern spigots, such as the Oval Type Glass Spigot, are engineered using a friction-fit compression glass spigot system. This eliminates the need for costly and precise glass drilling, reducing the risk of glass breakage during installation.
- Superior Durability: High-quality spigots are typically manufactured from Duplex 2205 grade stainless steel balustrade fittings. This material offers significantly higher corrosion resistance than standard 304 or 316 grades, making it suitable for harsh outdoor environments and coastal installations.
- Simplified Alignment: Precision is critical in balustrading. Spigots allow for easy glass alignment by shimming the base of the fitting, ensuring a perfectly level finish even on slightly uneven surfaces.
- Drainage: Unlike other frameless glass balustrade systems such as base rails systems, water can easily drain from the terrace or balcony.
- Compliance & Safety: Our glass spigots are tested in accordance with BS6180 UK standards, capable of withstanding loadings of up to 0.74kN using laminated glass or 1.5kN with 19mm toughened glass, ensuring they meet UK building regulations for domestic or light commercial use. For more information, follow our link to a guide on UK Building Regulations for Glass Balustrading.
Glass spigots are highly adaptable and can be used in a variety of settings:
- Pool Fencing: Their low profile allows for a seamless transition between the pool and the surrounding landscape.
- Garden Patios & Decking: They provide privacy barriers and windbreaks for relaxation areas without blocking the view.
- Internal Mezzanines: In modern interiors, spigots help maintain an open-plan feel on staircases and landings.
- External Balustrading: Certified for use on first-floor or higher residential dwellings.
Matching the spigot to the correct glass thickness is essential for safety. GlassParts provides solutions for a wide range of specifications:
- Standard Range: Our spigots are designed to accommodate glass thicknesses from 10mm to 21.52mm.
- Laminated Options: For handrail-less glass balustrade installations with a drop of 600mm or more, toughened laminated glass (e.g., 17.5mm or 21.5mm) is required to ensure UK safety standards are met.
Download our test data here
Whether you are looking for a Matt Black Oval Spigot for a contemporary look or a classic Square Type Spigot, choosing the right hardware is essential for a professional finish.
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What are glass spigots and why are they used in frameless balustrading?
Glass spigots are compact, high-performance floor fittings that provide structural integrity without the visual bulk of traditional posts. They are a popular choice for achieving unobstructed views and minimalist aesthetics.
Is glass drilling required for installation?
No. Modern spigots use a friction-fit compression system, which eliminates the need for costly and precise glass drilling.
What material are GlassParts' spigots made of?
High-quality spigots are manufactured from Duplex 2205 grade stainless steel. This material provides superior durability and higher corrosion resistance than standard 304 or 316 grades.
Are the glass spigots compliant with UK building regulations?
Yes. Our glass spigots are tested in accordance with BS6180 UK standards for domestic or light commercial use.
What glass thicknesses can these spigots accommodate?
GlassParts spigots accommodate glass thicknesses from 10mm to 21.52mm.
When is toughened laminated glass required?
For handrail-less installations with a drop of 600mm or more, toughened laminated glass is required to meet UK safety standards.
Where can glass spigots be used?
They are ideal for pool fencing, garden patios, internal mezzanines, and external residential balustrading.
How do spigots simplify installation on uneven surfaces?
Spigots allow for easy alignment by shimming the base, ensuring a perfectly level finish on uneven ground.
Do spigots help with water drainage?
Yes. Unlike base rail systems, spigots allow water to flow freely underneath the glass, preventing pooling on balconies.
