Every state in America has a building code, including South Carolina. The code for this state is referred to as the South Carolina Building Code (SCBC), which serves as a reference for engineers and architects in the construction and remodeling industry.
This code is useful to homeowners who are capable of doing DIY. Additionally, the SCBC has special sections, specifying glass railing requirements for the design and installation of framed, semi-frameless, and frameless glass railings.
This article is for you if you live in South Carolina and want to know about glass deck railings and other glass railing systems. It highlights essential information about the South Carolina Building Code and glass railing safety regulations, which include where guardrails are required and glass panel specifications.
You will also learn about guard railing height and pool fencing requirements. So, keep reading to learn more!
The South Carolina Building Code governs construction and remodeling for homes, commercial buildings, and public offices. It provides detailed safety regulations that safeguard the lives of users.
The South Carolina Building Codes Council is responsible for modifying and adopting the state's building code. Effective January 1, 2023, the 2021 SCBC was adopted in South Carolina, which is based on the 2021 International Building Code (IBC) with state-specific modifications.
Many modifications made in the 2021 South Carolina Building Code center around reviewing definitions and specifications. Likewise, some sections of the documents were removed to enhance building safety.
The building regulations require guardrails in specific locations for indoor and outdoor safety. As such, you can install glass deck railings and other glass guardrails in balconies, mezzanines, patios, and other elevated platforms at least 762 mm (30 inches) high from an adjacent walking floor.
Other critical building safety compliance guidelines include:
All glass railing systems installed in residential, commercial, and public spaces must adhere to these safety regulations. Failure to do so may lead to fines by the relevant local authorities in South Carolina.
The South Carolina Building Code has specific rules for using glass railings. All glass guardrails must conform to some railing height and glass panel type specification.
Therefore, the frameless glass railings you use in your home must be made of specific glass and reach the required height. Similarly, if you have pools, you must provide fencing that conforms with SCBC safety regulations.
The IBC through the South Carolina Building Code provides safety regulations specifying height requirements for all glass railings used in elevated platforms and stairways. Below are the height requirements to consider.
Above specific heights, some counties prevent glass railings from having projections or openings that support climbing.
The glass type used for framed and frameless glass railings matters when considering safety regulations. Therefore, only safety glazing with the following specifications is allowed for all glass railing systems.
Residential swimming pools are dangerous to children and adults if access is not limited. As such, the South Carolina Building Code requires fencing for all pools deeper than 610 mm (24 inches).
Here are key pool fencing building safety requirements to consider.
Front yard enclosures cannot be higher than 1219 mm (48 inches) in South Carolina. As such, you may have to build a pool in your backyard if local safety regulations require pool enclosures higher than 4 feet.
The South Carolina Building Code does not explicitly state you need a permit to erect a pool enclosure. However, city and local requirements may force you to apply for one before you start any work.
In some cases, temporary barriers may also be required during the construction of pools.
You must follow carefully the South Carolina Building Code for glass railing if you choose to DIY a glass guardrail. In addition, here are some installation tips you can consider.
The South Carolina Building Code is an invaluable document that aids design and construction work in South Carolina. It includes sections providing guidance for glass railing installation, specifying glass panel type, and guardrail height.
If you intend to build a pool in your backyard, this building code will show you how to secure it with an appropriate pool enclosure. Likewise, the glass railing system DIY section offers great tips for installing a safe and functional frameless glass railing.
All glass railing systems in residential, commercial, and public buildings used for stairways, ramps, and balconies must be at least 1067 mm (42 inches) high. However, staircases and ramps may also require handrails.
All guardrails including glass railing systems and other guard railings must not have openings wider than 100 mm (4 inches).
A fence with a minimum height of 1219 mm (48 inches) is required around your pool in South Carolina. This enclosure must also have self-closing and self-latching devices that always keep gates closed.
Discover how The Glass Railing Store has been delivering exceptional service to our customers, thanks to our dedicated and knowledgeable team and their love our glass railing products.