Glass Railing Installation Guide

Glass Railing Installation Guide

Welcome to the installation guide for The Glass Railing Store's frameless glass railing system. This guide provides step-by-step instructions and useful tips to ensure a successful installation. For any questions or support, please contact us.

The installation video:

The installation PDF:

(click on the image to download the PDF)

Before You Begin

1. Inspect Your Packages: Check all packages for shipping damage and confirm your piece count with the packing list. If any damage or missing parts are found, contact our customer support within 3 business days of delivery.
2. Building Codes: Ensure compliance with local building codes. We are not responsible for code compliance and will not accept returns for non-compliance.
3. Handling Glass Panels: Due to the weight and nature of glass panels, we recommend a two-person lift. Avoid letting glass edges contact hard surfaces such as concrete.
4. Safety Gear: Wear safety glasses, safety boots, work gloves, and other appropriate safety gear when handling glass and using power tools.

Tools You’ll Need

• Measuring Tape
• Level
• Pencil
• Power Drill with 1/8’’ and 5/16’’ Drill Bits
• Allen Key

Components

1. Glass Panels
2. Square Glass Clamps
3. Gaskets (2 per clamp)
4. Setting Blocks
5. ST4.2 x 40mm Screws
6. Wall Anchors

Installation Steps

Ground Marking

1. Chalk Line: Begin by marking the ground with a chalk line to define the glass line. This step is crucial as it guides us throughout the installation process. Ensure the line is marked accurately, as it will determine the alignment of the fence.

2. Mark Glass Dimensions and Spacing: Based on the glass measurements selected for your project, mark these dimensions on the ground. Typically, we leave about 1 inch of space between each glass panel, but the spacing can vary from 3/4 inch to 2 inches. It's essential that the space always remains smaller than 4 inches to comply with building codes.

3. Mark Spigot Locations: The spigots should be placed at approximately 25% of the glass length from the edge for maximum stability. This location may be adjusted slightly depending on your project's specific requirements.

Drilling Holes for Spigot Screws

1. Use the spigot as a guide to drill holes at the correct locations. It's vital not to move the spigots during drilling to keep the fence line straight. We recommend using HILTI's XXXX drill bit and XXXX drill, though the specific tools you use are not crucial.

Screwing in the Screws

1. For screwing, use a drill with an attachment made for our screws. Ensure the spigot remains aligned with the chalk line during this process to prevent the glass from being installed crookedly. Decide which side will have the tightening screws, usually placed on the less visible side, whether it's facing the pool or the interior of a deck/balcony.

First Adjustment of the Spigot

1. Using a magnetic level, check if the spigot is straight. Most times, it will require some adjustment. Use a wrench and an Allen key to adjust the spigot until it is level.

Placing the Cap to Cover the Screws

Inserting the Glass into the Spigots

1. This delicate step requires two people. Carefully slide the glass into the two spigots, ensuring that the rubber inside the spigot is ready to receive the glass. Make sure the glass does not touch the metal of the spigot or another glass piece during insertion. After the glass is in the spigots, position it according to the ground markings made earlier.

Adjusting the Height of the Glasses

1. Use 4 pieces of wood to create levers at each end of the glass, making it easier to adjust the height. Start with the glass that appears highest due to ground elevation, as you cannot lower a glass below the spigot limit. Instead, raise the glass to match the height of the highest glass. Ensure all glasses are at the same height and tighten the screws firmly with an Allen key.
   Adjusting the Angle of the Glasses

1. Once all glasses are at the correct height, ensure they are also at the right angle. Start from a corner and adjust two screws at a time to achieve a straight line.

Placing the Clamps

1. Again, starting from the corners, you can place the clamps at the height you desire, typically 6 inches below the glass height, to solidify your glass fence line.

How to Install Cap Rails

1. Clean the Glass Panels
   Begin by cleaning the top of the glass panels. Ensure there is no dust, debris, or dirt on the surface to ensure a secure fit for the cap rail.

2. Prepare the Rubber Gasket
   Take the rubber gasket and place it on the top edge of the railing. Press down on the gasket firmly to ensure it is securely in place and evenly distributed along the entire length of the railing.

3. Position the Cap Rail
   Place the cap rail directly on top of the rubber gasket. Carefully align it with the railing and gently lower it into position. Once the cap rail is positioned, apply slight pressure to make sure it fits securely into place with the rubber gasket. Ensure the cap rail is fully seated and aligned properly, creating a tight seal between the glass panels and the cap rail.
   
   Check for Proper Fit
   Verify that the cap rail is snugly in place and there are no gaps. If necessary, apply more pressure to ensure a firm, secure connection.

Door Installation

1. Door Installation (Inline Configuration):

• For an inline configuration, ensure the door opening is 36”. Install two spring-loaded door hinges and a magnetic door latch. Adjust the door closing speed with Allen key screws on the hinges. For pool railing, the door latch should be on the pool side, with the door swinging outward.

2. Door Installation (Corner Door Configuration - Wall/Post to Glass):

• Ensure the door opening is 36”. Install two spring-loaded door hinges and a magnetic door latch. Adjust the door closing speed with Allen key screws on the hinges. For pool railing, the door latch should be on the pool side, with the door swinging outward.

3. Door Installation (Corner Door Configuration - Glass to Glass):

• Ensure the door opening is 36”. Install two spring-loaded door hinges and a magnetic door latch. Adjust the door closing speed with Allen key screws on the hinges. For pool railing, the door latch should be on the pool side, with the door swinging outward.

4. Door Lock Installation:

• Install the door lock on the exterior (non-pool) side using an Allen key. Close the door and mark the lock’s cylinder center. Drill a 5/8’’ diameter hole 3/8’’ deep on the mark.

Tips and Final Adjustments

• Ensure all spigots are aligned on the centerline, plumb, and level.
• Use setting blocks to make fine adjustments.
• Use glass-to-glass clamps to align the top part of the glass panels.
• Regularly check the level and alignment throughout the installation process.

Congratulations! Your frameless glass railing installation is complete. We’d love to see your finished project. Snap a few photos and send them to us. Thank you for choosing The Glass Railing Store for your glass railing needs.