Laminated Glass Railings

The Lamination Process
Laminated glass is created through a sophisticated manufacturing process that permanently bonds multiple layers of glass with high-strength interlayers:

• Glass Preparation - Individual glass sheets are cut to precise specifications
• Cleaning and Inspection - Thorough cleaning to ensure perfect bonding
• Interlayer Placement - PVB or ionoplast interlayer positioned between glass sheets
Air Removal - Vacuum process eliminates air between layers

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• Heat and Pressure Application - Fusion of components in autoclave

Edge Treatment - Precise finishing of exposed edges
• Quality Control - Rigorous inspection for optical clarity and bond integrity

Interlayer Technology
The interlayer is the critical component that gives laminated glass its unique properties:
PVB (Polyvinyl Butyral) - Standard interlayer with excellent adhesion and clarity
SentryGlas® - Advanced ionoplast interlayer with superior strength and rigidity

• Acoustic Interlayers - Specialized formulations for enhanced sound reduction
• Colored Interlayers - Decorative options in various tints and opacities
Multi-Layer Systems - Complex configurations for maximum performance

Frameless Laminated Glass Railings
Our frameless laminated glass railings create virtually invisible barriers with minimal hardware. These sophisticated systems maximize views and light transmission while providing superior safety and hurricane resistance.
Features include:
Edge-Mounted Hardware - Discreet base shoe or spigot mounting

No Vertical Posts - Uninterrupted glass panels
• Optional Top Rails - With or without handrails depending on code requirements
• Premium Hardware Options - Stainless steel, black, or custom finishes
• Polished Edges - Beautifully finished glass edges
Semi-Frameless Laminated Glass Railings

Our semi-frameless laminated glass railings combine the safety of laminated glass with minimal posts and top rails. These elegant systems provide additional structural support while maintaining excellent visibility and security.

Laminated Glass Configurations
Contact our team at (561)672-0717 to schedule your appointment.
We offer various laminated glass configurations to meet different application requirements:

• Standard Laminated - Two layers of glass with PVB interlayer
• Tempered Laminated - Heat-strengthened or fully tempered glass layers
Multi-Layer Laminated - Three or more glass layers for maximum security
SentryGlas® Systems - Advanced interlayer for hurricane zones
• Hybrid Systems - Combinations of different glass types

Glass Thickness and Interlayers
The total thickness of laminated glass depends on both the glass layers and interlayer:
9/16" (13.5mm) - Two 1/4" glass layers with standard interlayer
11/16" (17.5mm) - Two 5/16" glass layers with standard interlayer
13/16" (21.5mm) - Two 3/8" glass layers with standard interlayer
1" (25.4mm) - Two 1/2" glass layers with standard interlayer
• Custom Thicknesses - Specialized configurations for specific requirements
Interlayer thickness typically ranges from 0.38mm to 1.52mm, with thicker interlayers providing enhanced performance.

Waterfront Property Railings
Our laminated glass railings for waterfront properties combine hurricane resistance with unobstructed views. These premium systems are perfect for oceanfront estates, Intracoastal homes, and lakefront properties where both safety and aesthetics are paramount.

Waterfront applications include:
• Oceanfront Balconies - Wind protection with preserved views
• Intracoastal Terraces - Hurricane-resistant barriers with water views
• Elevated Decks - Safety barriers for waterfront outdoor living

Rooftop Terraces - Wind protection for elevated spaces
• Pool Deck Perimeters - Code-compliant barriers with enhanced safety
High-Security Applications
Our high-security laminated glass railings provide enhanced protection for applications where safety and security are critical concerns. These specialized systems offer superior resistance to impact and forced entry while maintaining elegant aesthetics.

Security applications include:
Estate Home Perimeters - Elegant security barriers
High-Rise Balconies - Enhanced safety for elevated spaces
• Commercial Properties - Secure barriers with sophisticated appearance
Public Spaces - Durable barriers for high-traffic areas
• Child Safety Areas - Maximum protection for family spaces

Special Applications
• Pool Barrier Requirements - Additional regulations for swimming pool enclosures
High-Rise Requirements - Enhanced standards for elevated applications
• Commercial Standards - Different requirements based on occupancy type
• Accessibility Compliance - ADA considerations where applicable

The Installation Process
Our comprehensive installation process ensures your laminated glass railings are perfectly designed, fabricated, and installed:

• Initial Consultation - We discuss your needs, preferences, and project requirements
• Site Measurement - Our team takes precise measurements of your space
• Design Development - We create detailed designs and specifications
• Material Selection - You choose from our range of glass and hardware options
• Engineering Review - Structural engineers verify code compliance and safety
• Permitting - We handle all necessary building permits and approvals
• Custom Fabrication - Your glass panels are precision-manufactured to exact specifications
• Professional Installation - Our experienced team ensures perfect fit and finish
• Final Inspection - We verify every detail meets our quality standards

Maintenance and Care
Laminated glass railings require minimal maintenance to maintain their beauty and functionality:

• Regular Cleaning - Use standard glass cleaner or mild soap and water
• Avoid Abrasives - Never use abrasive cleaners or tools that can scratch glass
• Edge Inspection - Periodically check exposed edges for any signs of delamination
• Hardware Maintenance - Check and tighten mounting components as needed
• Sealant Inspection - Verify integrity of weather seals in exterior applications

How do laminated glass railings perform during hurricanes?
Laminated glass railings offer superior hurricane performance compared to other glass options. During extreme weather events, properly engineered laminated glass railings can withstand high wind pressures and potential impacts from wind-borne debris. If the glass is struck with sufficient force to break it, the interlayer holds the fragments together, maintaining the barrier's integrity and preventing dangerous shards from becoming projectiles. For maximum hurricane resistance, we recommend systems using SentryGlas® interlayers, which are up to five times stronger and significantly more rigid than traditional PVB interlayers. These advanced systems are specifically engineered for High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ) and include enhanced mounting hardware, deeper embedment, and additional anchoring to withstand extreme conditions. While no system is completely impervious to the most severe storms, properly designed laminated glass railings provide significantly better protection than tempered glass or non-glass alternatives.

What is the cost difference between laminated glass and tempered glass railings?
Laminated glass railings typically cost 30-50% more than comparable tempered glass systems, with the price difference reflecting the additional materials, manufacturing complexity, and enhanced performance. While standard tempered glass railings might range from $200-300 per linear foot installed, comparable laminated glass systems typically range from $260-450 per linear foot. Premium laminated systems with SentryGlas® interlayers or multi-layer configurations can reach $350-550+ per linear foot. This price differential varies based on several factors: 1) Interlayer type (standard PVB vs. premium SentryGlas®); 2) Glass thickness and configuration; 3) Hardware requirements for the heavier laminated panels; and 4) Installation complexity. Despite the higher initial investment, laminated glass often provides better long-term value for hurricane-prone areas, waterfront properties, and security-conscious applications due to its superior performance, potential insurance benefits, and enhanced protection of property and occupants during extreme events.

Can laminated glass railings yellow or delaminate over time?
Quality laminated glass railings from reputable manufacturers should not yellow or delaminate when properly installed and maintained. Modern interlayer technology has significantly improved UV resistance compared to products from decades ago. Today's premium PVB and ionoplast interlayers contain UV stabilizers that prevent yellowing even after years of Florida sun exposure. Delamination (separation of glass from interlayer) is similarly rare with quality products and proper installation. The primary causes of delamination are: 1) Water infiltration at exposed edges, which is prevented through proper edge sealing and protection; 2) Manufacturing defects, which are eliminated through quality control; 3) Improper installation creating stress points; and 4) Extreme environmental conditions beyond design parameters. Our laminated glass railings use only premium materials with proper edge treatments and installation techniques to ensure decades of clear, delamination-free performance. We recommend periodic inspection of exposed edges in exterior applications to identify and address any potential issues before they progress.

Do laminated glass railings reduce noise?
Yes, laminated glass railings provide significant noise reduction compared to single-pane tempered glass or open railing systems. The viscoelastic interlayer in laminated glass dampens sound vibrations, reducing noise transmission by 3-5 decibels with standard PVB interlayers and up to 10+ decibels with specialized acoustic interlayers. This noise reduction is particularly valuable for: 1) Urban properties near traffic or commercial activity; 2) Waterfront homes exposed to boat noise; 3) Properties near airports or flight paths; and 4) Multi-family buildings where sound isolation between units is desired. The acoustic performance varies based on glass thickness, interlayer type, and specific frequency of noise. For maximum sound reduction, we offer specialized acoustic laminated glass with multiple interlayers specifically designed to target different sound frequencies. While no railing system can completely eliminate environmental noise, laminated glass provides a noticeable improvement in acoustic comfort compared to other options, especially when incorporated into a comprehensive sound management strategy.

Laminated Glass Railings
At Modern Railing Co., we specialize in designing and installing premium laminated glass railings that provide unparalleled safety, security, and sophisticated aesthetics. Our laminated glass railing systems combine multiple layers of glass with interlayer technology to create exceptionally durable barriers that remain intact even when broken. Perfect for South Florida's hurricane-prone environment, waterfront properties, and high-security applications, our laminated glass railings deliver the ultimate combination of protection and elegance.

The Laminated Glass Advantage
Laminated glass railings offer several distinct advantages over standard glass options:

• Enhanced Safety - Glass fragments remain adhered to interlayer if broken
• Hurricane Resistance - Superior performance in extreme weather conditions
• Sound Reduction - Acoustic dampening properties reduce noise transmission
• UV Protection - Special interlayers can block harmful ultraviolet rays
• Security Enhancement - Greater resistance to forced entry attempts
• Design Versatility - Available with various glass types and interlayer options
• Code Compliance - Meets stringent building code requirements for critical applications

Glass Types and Finishes
Beyond standard clear laminated glass, we offer several specialized options:

• Low Iron Laminated Glass - Ultra-clear glass without the green tint
• Tinted Laminated Glass - Gray, bronze, or blue tints for solar control
• Frosted Laminated Glass - Various opacity levels for privacy
• Colored Interlayer Glass - Decorative interlayers in various hues
• Printed or Patterned Glass - Decorative options for unique designs
Questions about our services? Call (561)672-0717 for immediate assistance.

Laminated Glass Railing Applications
Hurricane-Resistant Railings
Our hurricane-resistant laminated glass railings are specifically engineered for South Florida's extreme weather conditions. These robust systems combine laminated safety glass with enhanced mounting hardware to create barriers that maintain their integrity even during severe storms.
Key features include:

High-Performance Interlayers - SentryGlas® or similar for maximum strength
• Enhanced Mounting Systems - Deeper embedment and additional anchors

Specialized Hardware - Designed for high wind loads
• Engineering Certification - Documented compliance with HVHZ requirements
• Impact Testing - Verified performance under simulated conditions

Noise Reduction Barriers
Our acoustic laminated glass railings incorporate specialized interlayers that reduce sound transmission. These systems are ideal for properties near busy streets, commercial areas, or other noise sources where sound control is desired along with safety and aesthetics.

Acoustic applications include:
Urban Property Balconies - Reduce street noise
Properties Near Highways - Minimize traffic sound
Waterfront Homes - Reduce boat and water activity noise
Multi-Family Boundaries - Create quieter shared spaces
• Commercial Separations - Define areas with sound control

Building Code Compliance
All our laminated glass railings are designed and installed to meet or exceed Florida Building Code requirements:

Hurricane Zone Requirements
• HVHZ Compliance - Specific requirements for High Velocity Hurricane Zones
• Wind Load Resistance - Engineered for specific wind pressures
• Impact Testing - Verified performance under missile impact tests
• Cyclic Loading - Ability to withstand repeated pressure changes
• Proper Documentation - Engineering calculations and certifications

Safety Requirements
Height Standards - Typically 42" for residential guards
• Load Resistance - Must withstand specific forces (typically 50 lbs/ft linear load)
Post-Breakage Performance - Maintain barrier integrity if glass breaks

Edge Treatment - Proper finishing for exposed glass edges
• Mounting Specifications - Proper anchoring to structural elements

Serving South Florida Communities
We design and install premium laminated glass railings throughout South Florida, including:

Boca Raton
Delray Beach
Parkland
West Palm Beach
Fort Lauderdale
Coral Springs
Wellington
Palm Beach Island
Deerfield Beach
Boynton Beach
Pompano Beach
Lighthouse Point