Grade 316 stainless steel requires minimal maintenance but does benefit from regular cleaning to maintain its appearance and maximise its corrosion resistance. For routine cleaning, wipe down with a clean cloth dampened with warm soapy water, then rinse and dry thoroughly. Avoid abrasive pads or cleaning products containing chlorine bleach, which can damage the passive oxide layer. For stubborn contamination, rust staining from adjacent mild steel, or marine environments, use a proprietary stainless steel cleaner and restorer — F.H.Brundle stocks suitable maintenance products in the cleaning products range. In coastal environments, more frequent cleaning (monthly) is recommended. Never use wire wool or steel-based cleaning tools, as ferrous deposits can initiate surface corrosion.

For full cleaning instructions, refer to page 593 of the catalogue.

The majority of Pro-Railing handrail bracket and connector fittings are designed to accept 42.4mm OD round tube — the standard size for a DDA-compliant continuous smooth handrail meeting Approved Document M of the Building Regulations. Selected fittings are also available for 48.3mm OD tube, which is used where a more substantial handrail profile is preferred or where heavier loading is anticipated. F.H.Brundle stocks the corresponding satin stainless round tube in both diameters, along with bends and returns for staircase applications.

Building Regulations Approved Document K specifies the following minimum barrier heights in England and Wales: 900mm for internal stairs (measured vertically from the pitch line of the stair); 1000mm for internal landings, mezzanine floors and internal balconies in residential dwellings; and 1100mm for external balconies, roof terraces and all commercial applications. Scotland (Technical Handbook) and Northern Ireland have their own requirements that broadly align with Approved Document K but should be checked independently. The height is measured from the finished floor level to the top of the handrail or the top of the barrier, whichever is higher.

Yes — the system is suitable for both internal and external applications. The grade 316 stainless steel posts and fittings provide excellent corrosion resistance in external and coastal environments. Toughened glass panels are fully weatherproof and UV-stable. For external installations on decking, terraces or balconies, the side-fix or concrete-in post fixing methods are the most commonly used — both create a clean, low-profile installation that does not trap debris or standing water. Always check local planning requirements: some conservation areas or listed buildings may restrict the use of glass balustrade externally.

The glass specification for a balustrade is determined by Building Regulations Approved Document K and the structural loading requirements of BS 6180. As a minimum, balustrade infill glass must be a safety glazing product as defined by BS 6206 or EN 12600 — in practice this means toughened (tempered) safety glass (EN 12150) or laminated safety glass (EN ISO 12543). For most domestic balustrade applications (residential staircase, decking, Juliet balcony), toughened glass is the standard choice. For commercial applications, overhead glazing or locations where a broken panel must remain in-situ (e.g. floor-level glass), laminated glass is typically required.

F.H.Brundle can supply both toughened and laminated glass panels. Before ordering, always confirm the glass specification with your structural engineer or building control officer if in any doubt.

Both grades are austenitic stainless steels with excellent general corrosion resistance, but grade 316 contains 2–3% molybdenum which substantially improves resistance to chloride ions — the principal cause of pitting corrosion in stainless steel. In practical terms, grade 304 is adequate for most dry internal applications and sheltered external environments away from the coast. Grade 316 is the correct specification for any external application, coastal location, swimming pool surround (however Duplex is an even more resilient grade of stainless for this environment), marine environment or environment with regular cleaning using chlorinated chemicals.

F.H.Brundle’s Pro-Railing components are manufactured in grades 304 and 316 with some available in Duplex 2205.

We pride ourselves in sourcing easy to install systems. However, we always recommend that you seek advice and follow the installation instructions.

Our stainless steel 316 and Duplex 2205 products are suitable for waterside/marine installations.

Some products or systems will require specific tools. Always read the appropriate installation instructions for your required system for details.