Updating your ranch-style balustrade with glass

Ranch-style staircases were all the rage back in the day but many homeowners are now updating them with modern glass balustrades. Read on to find out more…

What are ranch style balustrades?

The ranch style staircase became popular in the 1970s: a distinctive design feature typically featuring horizontal wooden rails or balustrades, made up of two or three solid panels attached to vertical posts.

Why update a ranch style staircase?

Whilst you can still find this style of balustrade in older homes, a growing number of homeowners are choosing to update their ranch style staircase systems:

Aesthetics

Fashions come and go, and for many the ranch style has simply had its day! Its simple and functional design now seems dated, with homeowners now preferring either contemporary styles or more classic designs. 

Light

Whilst ranch style balustrades are considered old fashioned, they also create very dark and gloomy staircases and landings. The solid wood panels block much of the available light, so homeowners look to replace them with railing systems that let the light flow.

Safety

Perhaps the most significant problem with ranch style is that children can easily climb up the wooden panels and either fall or become trapped. Indeed, horizontal guarding  is now forbidden under modern buildings safety standards.

Replacing your ranch style system with a glass balustrade

Glass is a versatile design option, so swapping your ranch style panels for a glass balustrade will not cause minimal disruption.

It will, however, provide maximum design impact, offering you lots of choices to achieve the perfect look for your home, such as:

• Retaining existing wood banisters and woodwork

• Replacing wooden banister with stainless steel rails

• Removing all banisters and rails for a frameless glass balustrade to maximise light and create a sleek and streamlined look.

If you need inspiration for the right glass balustrade for your home, go to our design gallery.

Talk to Glass & Mirror Solutions today about updating your ranch style staircase

If you are looking to replace your ranch style balustrade with a contemporary glass installation, we are here to make it happen.

Our glazed balustrade systems are available in a range of styles, including:

• Frameless glass

• Stainless steel and glass

• Oak and glass balustrades

The choice comes purely down to personal preference and the expert team at Glass & Mirror Solutions are here to help you choose the right option for you.

We can supply new rails and posts, or remove spindles and install glass panels in their place, fixing to the existing staircase banister and framework.

We also sell a range of stunning balustrade fixings on our new online store.

Speak to us today for a no-obligation quote.