CRL Posiglaze Enhances Safety, Privacy And Uninterrupted Views At Saddleworth Home

For homeowner Erin Spencer in Saddleworth, Greater Manchester, replacing an ageing steel post and glass balustrade was an opportunity to create a safer, cleaner and more contemporary outdoor space while opening up views across the lake. Located in the parish of Oldham, the waterside property has both a main decked terrace and an upper balcony. However, the existing post and glass balustrade had begun to detract from the setting. Its steel uprights interrupted the view, while parts of the system had become unstable.

“The goal was to open up the view without the distraction of metalwork,” explains Erin. “The existing steel post and glass system was becoming unstable, and the posts obstructed the amazing views.”

The solution was CRL’s Posiglaze system, specified in matte black. Designed to create a frameless glass balustrade effect, Posiglaze uses a precision-engineered base shoe to secure the glass while keeping visible framework to a minimum. The system is suitable for applications where clear views, contemporary styling and reliable performance are priorities, making it ideal for terraces, balconies and external living spaces.

Fascia-mounted Posiglaze was installed to the main decking area and balcony, preserving the outlook from both levels. Two frosted glass privacy screens were also incorporated into the perimeter wall using surface-mounted Posiglaze, with matching matte black D clamps for support. CRL were recommended by a local glazing company. Richard, the local CRL sales representative, visited the property to discuss the requirements, show samples and talk through the options.

“Richard visited to discuss our requirements, showing me samples and images of potential options,” says Erin. “We decided to go with the fascia-mounted Posiglaze system in matte black for the decking area and the balcony, whereas the surface-mounted Posiglaze was ideal for the two frosted screens with matching matte black D clamps as support. We didn’t look at any other options as this solution was perfect in meeting our needs.”

Solving stability and sightline issues

Safety was one of the main reasons for replacing the original balustrade. The previous system relied on steel posts fixed at intervals, but these had become unstable in areas. “We were very conscious of safety and meeting any regulations that came with the installation of a balustrade,” says Erin. “We adhered to the glass requirements and fixing detail in each area of the project.” The Posiglaze base shoe provided a more robust alternative to the old post-based design. Whereas the previous posts were fixed approximately every metre, the installers used fixings in every pre-drilled hole at 200mm centres.

“I no longer worry about it falling over if someone leans on it,” says Erin. “I now have peace of mind and love the reaction that it receives.” The fascia-mounted system also concealed the main support by allowing the base shoe to be fixed to the steel below the decking edge, removing the need for upright posts. “The current Posiglaze system is fascia mounted to the steel below the decking edge, which leaves us with an unobstructed view across the lake,” says Erin.

A cleaner, more modern finish

By replacing metal uprights with a discreet glass balustrade system, the project has improved the appearance of the exterior. On the main decked area, the glass opens up the full width of the terrace. On the balcony, it allows the view to be enjoyed from inside the home as well as outside. “It gives the decking area a much cleaner, modern look,” says Erin. “When relaxing and looking across the lake, there is no longer the unsightly metal uprights, just clear glass in a hidden support system.”

The frosted glass panels set into the perimeter wall add privacy while maintaining the same design language as the main balustrade and balcony, creating a consistent finish across the full installation. CRL Posiglaze also provides the adjustability needed to align the glass accurately during installation.

Straightforward installation

The installation was carried out by Jake at JAS Joinery in Saddleworth and took around one week across the main decking, balcony and frosted privacy screens. The main challenges related to the existing structure. “The installation of the base shoe and glass for the three areas took around one week overall,” says Jake. “After making good the original steel substrate and ensuring that it was secure, the installation of the shoe and glass was extremely straightforward.”

The original steelwork required attention, and the decking had to be adjusted slightly to accommodate the base shoe top strip. “We were able to shuffle the decking back a little to fit the base shoe top strip and then reposition it afterwards,” explains Jake. “This required a little attention before fitting the Posiglaze shoe.”

Once installed, “the adjustability of the glass was very effective and responsive,” says Jake. With summer approaching, Erin wanted to make the outdoor space more inviting. “With summer just around the corner, we wanted to make our outdoor space as inviting as possible,” she says. “We felt that the old post balustrade distracted from the beauty which surrounds us. We can now view without impediment.”

“Richard remained in touch throughout the project and supported where necessary,” says Erin. “His service was exemplary and I wouldn’t have any hesitation in using CRL in the future.” The finished result is a safer, more modern and more enjoyable home exterior, with clear glass balustrades opening up lake views from the decked terrace and balcony, and frosted perimeter screens adding privacy where needed. View the Posiglaze video here

For more details call CRL on 01706 863600 or visit www.crlaurence.co.uk