Michigan Building Code for Glass Railing

Michigan Building Code plays a critical role in the state's building industry. It provides safety regulations for all construction work, including new and renovation projects.

More specifically, this code has sections dedicated to frameless glass railing design and installation. It defines railing height and glass panel requirements, which are crucial building compliance guidelines.

Furthermore, this documentation pays close attention to glass railing pool enclosures, ensuring minimum accidental drowning. As such, this article presents information about the Michigan Building Code and highlights essential details on glass railing systems.

What is the Michigan Building Code

The Michigan Building Code is the primary building safety, compliance guidelines used by architects, engineers, designers, and other professionals to design and build safe residential, commercial, and public buildings and infrastructure. This code was initially based on the 2015 International Building Code (IBC).

However, on March 12, 2024, Michigan adopted the 2021 IBC, and the documentation was passed to the Secretary of State on December 14, 2024. This new code will become effective on April 9, 2025, paving the way for enhanced safety regulations within the state's construction industry.

Like most codes, the new Michigan Building Code will guide the construction, renovation, and maintenance of residential, commercial, and public buildings. It should also enhance the glass railing design and installation.

Glass Railing System Overview

Glass railing systems appeal to a wide range of building owners, prompting many developers to opt for this guardrail type during new construction or renovation projects. In particular, frameless glass railings offer sleek aesthetics, a contemporary look, and a minimalist finish, uplifting spaces and increasing the value of properties.

Glass guardrails in indoor spaces admit natural light, minimizing the need for artificial lighting during the day. Furthermore, appropriate use of these railings can make small spaces appear bigger, which increases overall user comfort.

Although glass railings can be used in various indoor and outdoor applications, the Michigan Building Code mandates the installation of guardrails in some elevated platforms like balconies, patios, and decks. Here are the basic safety regulations for glass railing installation.

• Platforms like stairways, terraces, and mezzanines that are more than 762 mm (30 inches) above adjacent walking areas must have frameless glass railings or other conventional guardrails.
• Railing systems used must not allow passage of objects that are larger than 100 mm (4 inches) in diameter. However, industrial occupancies can have wider openings when required.

Glass Railing Requirements

Glass railing requirements are the primary safety regulations that ensure the functional and safe use of guardrails. These compliance guidelines primarily include railing height and glazing requirements.

The Michigan Building Code also provides pool enclosure guidelines for traditional and glass railings to minimize the chances of accidental drowning.

Railing Height Requirements

Guardrails are safety features that should provide support and prevent users from falling. To achieve this, railings used for elevated platforms must reach the minimum height requirement as provided in the building safety compliance guidelines.

Here are basic height specifications for framed and frameless glass railings.

• Frameless glass railings used in residential, commercial, and public spaces should be at least 1067 mm (42 inches) high. This requirement is a basic standard that ensures safety and eliminates the risk of penalty by the state when accidents occur.
• On the other hand, groups R-2 and R-3 individual dwelling homes can have glass guardrails that are 914 mm (36 inches) high.

Glazing Requirement

The glazing type used for frameless glass railing contributes to the glass panel's ability to withstand pressure or force from use or natural elements like wind. Therefore, the Michigan Building Code has specific glazing safety regulations that enhance system functionality by minimizing risk.

Here are the fundamental requirements for glazing.

• Glass panels used for frameless glass railing should be laminated glass constructed of fully tempered or heat-strengthened glass that complies with Category II of CPSC 16 CFR Part 1201 or Class A of ANSI Z97.1 standard.
• For locations where there is no risk of falling glass, single full tempered glass can be used that complies with the earlier-mentioned standard.
• Glazing can be of any color, tint, or shade if it is structurally sound and free from visible defects.
• Glass panels for frameless glass railings must be at least 12 mm (0.5 inches) thick.

Frameless Glass Pool Enclosure Requirements

Safety regulations for framed and frameless glass railings are stricter when used as pool enclosures. These stringent safety regulations are necessary to prevent accidental drowning by unsupervised children and unauthorized adjustments.

The Michigan Building Code mandates under-ground and over-ground pools to have the following guardrail requirements.

• A pool enclosure made of frameless glass railings or other materials should have a minimum height of 1219 mm (48 inches).
• The minimum allowable opening between glass panels and hardware should not exceed 100 mm (4 inches).
• All openings that lead into the swimming area should have gates equipped with self-latching and self-closing devices.
• The minimum allowable thickness for glass panels used for pool fencing is 12 mm (0.6 inches). However, using thicker glazing can add extra safety.

Glass Railing System Installation Permit and Inspection

Unlike many states, Michigan takes glass railing installation seriously. Therefore, building owners or developers should ensure they have the required permits as stipulated in the building code.

In no particular order, here are some steps you would take to get a permit for glass railing installation.

• Contact the state and municipality for information about railing installation. Although state guidance is fixed, some counties may have unique safety requirements you may need to follow.
• You should have a detailed plan, including designs (working drawings), material specifications, and load-bearing calculations. This documentation would be used to grant you a permit.
• Submit a permit application to the local office. Likewise, pay all outstanding permit application fees to ensure speedy processing.
• If the local jurisdiction requests a review of your documentation, act accordingly and resubmit for approval.

Once you receive your permit, you can start working on your frameless glass railing installation. However, you must conform to the details of the approved design.

Ensure you hire a competent contractor who understands the Michigan Building Code. Furthermore, always ensure your building or site is accessible as inspectors can show up anytime.

Here are key inspection events you should expect.

• A pre-installation inspection would be carried out to ensure the site, materials, and anchoring systems are in accordance with approvals.
• During installation, glass panels and railing hardware would be inspected to ensure compliance with minimum safety standards.
• A final inspection would also be done to ensure compliance with load-bearing requirements, height specifications, and other safety regulations.

Depending on the stage of your work, failing inspections may lead to delays or fines.

Conclusion

The Michigan Building Code guides construction work across the state. It also provides essential glass railing safety regulations, ensuring the deployment of safe and functional framed and frameless glass railings.

It defines glass railing requirement fundamentals like railing height and glazing specifications. It also details pool enclosure regulations that ensure safe access to swimming areas.

The glass railing permits and inspection processes are taken seriously by government officials. Therefore, homeowners and contractors should take the necessary steps to ensure full compliance with the state's safety regulations.

FAQs for Michigan Building Code for Glass Railing

Do I need a permit to install a glass railing in Michigan?

Obtaining a permit is a requirement for glass railing installation in Michigan. Your application for a permit must accompany your structural design, deployment plan, and material specifications.

What is the minimum height requirement for glass railings in Michigan?

The standard height requirement for all railings is 1067 mm (42 inches). However, some residential buildings can have guardrails that are 914 mm (36 inches) high.

What type of glass is required for railings in Michigan?

Full-tempered laminated or heat-strengthened glass panels are recommended for frameless glass railings.