Safe and Stylish Balcony Installation in Cheshire – Expert Craftsmanship for Lasting Durability
Balconies are a fantastic addition to any property, providing a stylish and functional outdoor space. However, they can pose a serious safety risk if not installed correctly. At NW Fabrications, we prioritise safe, secure, and long-lasting installations to ensure homeowners’ peace of mind.
We recently encountered a dangerous balcony failure at a property in Cheshire. A frameless glass balcony collapsed during strong winds, falling into the garden below. Fortunately, no one was injured, but the situation could have been far worse. This incident highlights the critical importance of professional installation and regular safety inspections.
Here’s what went wrong—and how we fixed it to restore the homeowner’s safety and confidence.
What Went Wrong with the Original Installation?
During our inspection, we uncovered multiple installation failures that led to the balcony’s collapse:
1. Fixing to a Non-Structural Frame
The original installers mounted the balcony onto a wooden frame instead of a solid, load-bearing structure. Over time, exposure to the elements weakened the wood, making it unable to support the weight of the glass and fittings.
2. Weak and Corroded Fasteners
Small, inadequate screws were used to secure the balustrade. Over the years, they had started to corrode, further weakening the connection points and leaving the structure vulnerable to failure.
3. Poorly Installed Glass Channel
The glass channel was not properly interlocked with aluminium dowels, and crucial corner connections were missing. Without a continuous, secure frame, the structure lacked the integrity to withstand external forces.
4. Shattered Glass Panels
When the balcony collapsed, two of the glass panels shattered on impact, creating a serious safety hazard. When installed correctly, high-quality glass should be able to withstand environmental stress.
5. Non-compliant with Safety Regulations
The original installation failed to meet safety standards, and with the original company no longer in business, the homeowner was left without support or accountability.
How We Fixed It: A Safe and Secure Solution
NW Fabrications takes balcony safety seriously, ensuring all installations meet structural, aesthetic, and safety requirements. Here’s how we reinforced and restored this balcony:
1. Safe Removal and Structural Assessment
Our team carefully dismantled the collapsed structure, ensuring no further damage occurred. We then conducted a full safety inspection to determine the best method for a stronger, safer installation.
2. Secure Structural Fixing
To properly support the balcony, we implemented the following reinforcement techniques:
- On the right-hand side, we fixed the structure directly to the brickwork using M12 x 120mm concrete screws, spaced every 200mm. This created a load-bearing and highly secure attachment.
- We drilled through the universal steel beam with specialist long drills on the front section and reinforced the structure using M12 threaded rods, ensuring maximum stability.
3. Replacement of Glass Panels
We installed high-quality, safety-rated toughened glass, ensuring the new panels were compliant with modern safety standards and capable of withstanding strong winds and environmental stress.
4. Full Compliance with Safety Regulations
The installation was redesigned and rebuilt to meet UK building regulations. Where wood is used, we always recommend certified wood fixing kits to ensure structural compliance.
Is Your Balcony Safe? Signs to Watch For
If your balcony has been installed for several years, it’s crucial to check for signs of wear, damage, or improper installation. Look out for these warning signs:
Rusting or corroded screws and bolts
Wobbling or movement when pressure is applied
Cracks, chips, or shattered glass panels
Loose or detached components
Fixing to non-structural materials like untreated wood
If you notice these issues, your balcony may not be structurally sound. A professional safety inspection is highly recommended.
Protect Your Home and Your Safety with NW Fabrications
A balcony should be a safe and stylish addition to your home—not a potential hazard. At NW Fabrications, we are committed to providing high-quality, durable, and compliant installations that last.
Need a professional balcony inspection?
Concerned about the safety of your existing installation?
Looking for a reliable, high-quality balcony solution?
Contact NW Fabrications today for expert advice and a comprehensive safety assessment.
Get in Touch – Your safety is our priority.
