Railing Types
Frameless vs. Semi-Frameless Systems for Patios
Frameless Glass Railings
Glass panels mount directly to your deck or patio surface with no visible posts between panels. These systems typically use 12mm glass and offer the cleanest sightlines.
Three mounting options:
Base shoe: Glass mounted in a continuous channel
Standoffs: Glass anchored to deck face using pairs of stainless or powder-coated standoffs
Spigots: Glass clamped in pairs of surface-mounted spigots
Semi-Frameless Glass Railings
Aluminum posts spaced maximum 42 inches apart support glass panels. You still get clear views between the posts at a lower price point.
Both systems meet BC Building Code requirements and handle wind loads in exposed locations.
Process
Our Professional Installation Process
Free Consultation & Measurement
We visit your property to assess your patio layout. You tell us what you want to see from your outdoor space. We carefully measure your existing structure and discuss system options.
Custom Design
We create a railing plan specific to your patio. This includes glass panel sizes, mounting type, and hardware placement. You review and approve the design before we order materials.
Hardware Installation
We install mounting hardware to your deck or patio surface. For frameless systems, we measure to installed hardware to ensure precision glass cutting.
Installation
Custom-cut glass panels arrive at your property. We install each panel and verify proper alignment and secure mounting.
Final Inspection
We walk you through the completed installation. You get care instructions and our warranty information.
Tenmar Guarantee
Every installation is backed by Tenmar’s workmanship warranty and trusted reputation across Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the top questions our clients ask about indoor glass railings before getting started.
How much do patio glass railings cost?
Frameless systems cost $300-$400 per linear foot installed. Semi-frameless systems with aluminum posts cost $250-$350 per linear foot installed. Your final cost depends on your patio size, mounting type, and site conditions. We provide free quotes with exact pricing for your project.
Will glass railings hold up in BC coastal weather and wind?
Yes. Our glass railing systems are engineered for coastal BC conditions. The glass is both tempered and laminated for impact resistance. Hardware uses marine-grade stainless steel or powder-coated aluminum that resists salt air corrosion. We test all systems against BC wind and snow loads to ensure safe performance in storms.
Are glass patio railings safe during winter freezes?
Absolutely. Each panel is tempered safety glass, mounted in sealed brackets that prevent moisture intrusion or cracking during freeze-thaw cycles.
How hard are glass railings to maintain?
Minimal maintenance required. Clean your glass panels with standard glass cleaner a few times per year. No painting, staining, or sealing needed like wood railings. No rust issues like metal railings. Most homeowners spend less than an hour per year on maintenance.
Do I need a building permit for patio glass railings?
This depends on your municipality and whether you are replacing existing railings or adding new ones. All our systems meet BC Building Code requirements for railing height and strength. We handle permit applications and inspections where required as part of the installation process.
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