Do you conduct site surveys?
We simply supply all the parts you need to complete your project and advise that you use a certified tradesperson to install your new system if you are not confident in carrying out the works yourself. We don’t employ surveyors, so unfortunately we are not able to offer site surveys. Visit our resource centre for instructions, and more information on measuring.
What if my items have arrived damaged?
Our aim is to make sure everything arrives with you in perfect condition, but you should always check through your order soon after it arrives to make sure nothing has been damaged in transit. If any of the items in your order arrive damaged, or are missing, please notify us as soon as possible on the day you receive your delivery so that we can seek to rectify the issue as quickly as possible.
Do you offer installation services?
Unfortunately, we don’t. You will need to either install the system yourself or hire a contractor to do the job. Instructions and videos are available for many products whilst our staff can offer advice.
Can I collect my items from my local branch?
If you have an appropriate vehicle, you’re welcome to contact your nearest branch and arrange to collect your items yourself. We have a click or call and collect service.
When should I arrange for my installer to come?
You should arrange for your installer to attend and install your new system only after your order has arrived with you and you have checked through all of your items.
How can I care for my new system?
Whilst stainless steel is very durable and resistant to corrosion, it is not self-cleaning and will require regular maintenance and care. Cleaning intervals will depend on location and the local environment. If your system is installed externally and is regularly washed by rain, you may choose to clean the stainless steel around four times per year. However, if it’s installed indoors, or in an industrial environment, or if the property is close to the sea, it’s advisable to clean your stainless steel on a weekly basis.
We sell cleaning products and cloths in our range of accessories.
What grade of steel is used in your mild steel products?
Many of our products are manufactured using mild steel. Depending on the item, this typically falls within the S235 to S275 range. Grades such as S275JR offer higher yield strength and are commonly used where greater structural performance is required. If you require a specific grade for your project, please contact our team who will be happy to provide further information.
How do I measure for a new railing or balustrade?
For many projects simply follow the steps on https://liveconfigurator.co.uk/ which will guide you through the process. You can select the overall length or post centre to post centre length. We have information available which may be useful as you are guided through the form.
What loadings and forces are they designed to withstand?
The loads are expressed in kN/m (kilo Newton metre) in simple terms this is a quantity very similar to 100Kg (220lb) of pressure per metre length. If for example it is stated that there is 1.0kN/m it will be approximately the equivalent of one person weighing 100kg putting their full weight on one metre length.
There are three basic loads that are required to be met:
(a) Horizontal loading on the handrail
(b) Vertical loading on the handrail
(c) Loading on the infill
The horizontal loading on the handrail is called a “uniformly distributed line load” or UDL (basically meaning that the load needs to be calculated in a fashion that allows for even distribution of the pressure along the complete length of the element, as opposed to the sum of the load applied to one point). The vertical load on the handrail is composed of both a UDL vertical load and a point load. The load on the infill, be it glass, metal or other, is tested and calculated in two separate ways; a distributed load and a “point load”. This means the infill of the railing, balustrade or barrier must be able to withstand an evenly distributed pressure as well as a concentrated pressure on a small point.
The loads are tested or calculated whereby the maximum deflection under pressure must not exceed 25mm.
Areas of Building Usage and the Loads that Apply
You can divide regulations into these basic areas:
Domestic & Residential (Single Family Home), Internal Stairs/Landings Etc.
In which case the handrail pressure must be able to take 0.36kN/m. For external balconies and in light office areas non susceptible to overcrowding this is doubled to 0.74 kN/m. This can be compared to having one averagely weighing person 75kg applying the full force of their body on every metre of the balcony.
Public Areas Such as Retail Areas, Bars and Restaurants
The handrail pressure must be able to take 1.5 kN/m. This is doubled to a dramatic 3.0 kN/m in areas such as malls, discotheques, and areas susceptible to overcrowding.
In relation to the loads that apply in these areas on the glass or infill panels we will show here the severe of the two loads which is the concentrated point load:
Point Load for Domestic & Residential (Single Family Home) Internal Stairs/Landings Etc.
0.25kN/m. For external balconies and in light office areas non susceptible to overcrowding 0.5kN/m.
Point Load for Public Areas
On all public areas such as retail areas, malls, discotheques, areas susceptible to overcrowding, bars and restaurants the point load must be able to take 1.5kN/m.
When dealing with glass barrier one more element must be taken into account and that is impact resistance of the glass. A minimum of 10mm glass should be employed in balcony areas that are wider than 1.5m.
Finally…
If you are in any doubt about what you need to do, or which regulations you need to conform with on your own project, we always recommend that you consult your local Planning Office and/or a structural engineer.
To place an order or ask a question please email us at [email protected] or call your nearest branch and speak to one of our friendly team:
Rainham: 01708 25 35 45
Southampton: 023 8070 3333
Ilkeston: 0115 930 2070
Birmingham: 0121 565 8282
Newton le Willows: 01942 86 88 88
Glasgow: 0141 773 6699
Cardiff: 029 2280 1180
Burton-on-Trent 01283 743010
Email: [email protected]
Can I install the system myself?
Many parts bolt or glue together, but some parts do require the stainless steel tube to be drilled and tapped, whilst other parts, such as the handrails, may need cutting to length, so if the system you plan is a complex one, we would recommend using an experienced installer. Stainless steel is harder than mild steel when it comes to drilling and cutting and sometimes specialist equipment is required.
What is the lead time?
Lead times can vary, but we carry very large stocks of all our standard parts which are ready for immediate despatch. Bespoke posts for on the stairs and bespoke glass panels will be made especially to meet your own staircase and can take 2-3 weeks to make for you.
How do I measure the stairs?
- Add the number of risers in your stairs from the floor to the landing.
- Add the going of the steps (including the nose if applicable) and then add the rise of the steps from the top of one surface to the top of the next surface. This will determine the overall height, the overall length, and the angle. These sizes will change automatically in https://liveconfigurator.co.uk. Please check the finished dimensions which will be emailed to you against your staircase, remembering that the floor (especially when outside) may slope slightly. Please see the ‘Info’ button for further information.
How long are the handrails that you supply?
We supply handrail tubes in lengths of 5.8m, 3m, 1.5m, 1.2m and 1m, which can be cut down to size or joined together with connectors.
My layout does not work on stairways, what can I do?
Please contact your local F.H. Brundle sales department and they will do their best to assist you.
Coming Soon!
Can I install the system myself?
Bespoke glass can be installed DIY when using lighter-weight panels in areas without a fall risk. However, F.H. Bundles always recommends engaging a trade professional for handling and safety, especially when working at height.
What is the lead time?
We have a wide range of standard panels available from stock, whilst bespoke panels are made to your dimensions which usually takes 2-3 weeks, depending on sizes and quantities.
How heavy is glass?
Our Bespoke glass configurator will calculate the weight of the panel to your choices, however approximate weights per M2 are:
8mm = 20KG
10mm = 25KG
12mm = 30KG
15mm = 37.5KG
19mm = 47.5KG
25mm = 62.5KG
How are glass panels delivered?
We pack the glass panels and deliver on stillages. A charge is made for the stillages, which is refundable on return. You will need to offload from our delivery vehicles.
What standard sizes of panels do you offer?
Our full range of standard stock panels and bespoke options can be explored using our Glass Selector: https://www.fhbrundle.co.uk/glass-select.
For fully customised panels, our Bespoke Glass Configurator provides a step-by-step guide to creating the perfect solution: https://liveconfigurator.co.uk/products/bespoke-glass/.”
What is laminated glass?
Laminated glass is made from two pieces of glass bonded together with an interlayer between them. The interlayer helps to prevent the glass from shattering into pieces for safety.
What is toughened glass?
Toughened glass is simply a stronger version of the standard glass often found in windows. And is used in areas where greater strength or safety is needed. If it does break it will shatter into small pieces.
Decking FAQs
Decking is hard to work out; can you help please?
Working out decking can be tricky
Our QwickBuild tool is a great place to start: https://www.fhbrundle.co.uk/lp/outdure-qwickbuild-1/.
We also offer a deckboard calculator for precise planning: https://liveconfigurator.co.uk/
Do your boards require maintenance?
Rinato Decking is virtually maintenance-free, just simply clean it every now and again to keep the dirt away.
Can I colour or paint your boards?
No, but we stock a wide range of colours and styles which are more than likely to fulfil your every decking requirement.
What is composite decking?
Composite is a mixture of wood fibre, plastic and a small amount of bonding agents. These combine together to form a stronger, heavier, and denser material, resulting in far less maintenance than a traditional wood decking but also looking more authentic than a plastic alternative. Polymer decking contains no wood or any other organic material. Polymer decking is generally believed to be the premium option when choosing synthetic a decking.
How many decking boards will I need?
If you are having trouble working out how many deck boards you will need for your decking, please email us. You will usually need to allow for some wastage.
What are the delivery costs and times?
All of our orders will usually be dispatched within 24 hours (subject to stock availability). We offer free delivery on orders over £150.
Are the decking boards easy to install?
All of our deck boards are easy to install. Fix the starting clip to the first board and then use double clips to fix between each deck board thereafter.
Are the decking boards reversible?
Our Natural Rinato boards are dual-faced boards, meaning they have a traditional grooved effect on one side and realistic wood grain on the other for maximum flexibility.
Our Lux range boards are single-sided with a choice of natural woodgrain effect and are available in four stunning colours. These quality boards are splinter-free and offer an abrasion, UV, slip, insect and stain resistance. They are lighter than wood or WPC alternatives and are designed to prevent warping, bending, splitting, and cracking.
What range of deck boards are suitable for domestic application?
Rinato Natural features a 360-degree wrap-around Polymer Capstock shield that encapsulates the board and gives it year-round protection against the elements, perfect for domestic applications. The boards are double-sided. Our Lux range is also perfect for domestic applications.
Can I order a sample?
Yes, free samples can be ordered here: https://www.fhbrundle.co.uk/composite-decking-samples
Why should I need to allow for wastage?
With all deck boards there is almost always some wastage where boards have to be cut to length. Joists are some distance apart and boards have to be supported at both ends, so the boards often have to be cut to size. Normally we would recommend that you allow 5%-10% for this purpose. It is important to make sure that you always have enough boards to complete your project as different batches may vary slightly. Also, if you are wanting to lay boards diagonally, we would suggest that you require an extra 15% for this purpose.
Does aluminium decking comply with fire regulations?
Synergised aluminium decking systems have been independently tested at the UK’s Premier fire testing centre and comply with EN13823, EN13501 and EN ISO 1716 and achieves a minimum of A2fl-s1 which satisfies all current and proposed legal requirements. Fire Test Certificate.
Is aluminium decking easy to fit?
Our aluminium decking systems have been designed for ease of use and speed of installation. Using our unique stainless-steel hidden clip fixing system, Synergised deck boards can be quickly and easily affixed to aluminium, polymer, or timber subframes.
How do I cut aluminium deck boards?
Synergised aluminium deck boards can be cut using a standard chop saw with an appropriate blade fitted. Smaller cuts can be achieved using a hacksaw or jig saw. Spray touch up paints are available to finish cut edges in all our colours.
Does aluminium decking get hot in the sun?
Synergised aluminium decking is a great conductor of heat and will remain significantly cooler than similar colours in other decking materials, such as composites and timber.
(Click here to view comparison chart)
Will aluminium decking fade in the sun?
Synergised aluminium deck boards are powder-coated using a Qualicoat-approved system and will fade at a rate less than 3 Delta E. A figure between 0-4 Delta E fade resistance is classed as excellent.
Is aluminium decking slippery when wet?
No, Synergised aluminium decking has undergone the following stringent tests and results show its one of the best anti-slip finishes on the market today.
Shod Ramp test to CEN/TS 16165, annex B and DIN 51130 Rated R12 Sliding Friction Co-efficient: Tribometer test CEN16165, annex D and DIN51131 Anti-slip Pendulum test to BS7976-2 Dry and Wet (Click here to view charts)
Is aluminium decking recyclable?
Synergised aluminium decking is made from recycled aluminium and is fully recyclable at end of life.
What type of subframe is best to use with the decking boards?
Without a doubt our Synergised aluminium subframe is the preferred option when fire certification is required. Aluminium is roughly 3 times stronger than wood. Timber or polymer subframes can be used for low level (Below 18 metres in height) or domestic applications if a lower cost option is required. For commercial applications we would always recommend the aluminium system.
Please check out https://www.fhbrundle.co.uk/lp/outdure-qwickbuild-1/ for guidance.
How do I clean Synergised decking?
Warm soapy water and a stiff broom will normally suffice.
Paint FAQs
How can I get the colour I need?
Our top coats usually have a BS or RAL code to ensure they match these standards.
Can you make a special colour?
Yes, just give us the RAL colour and sheen you need and we can mix it for you. Please note that this may take a little longer and a minimum quantity may apply. Our staff will advise you.
My work is galvanised, which paint can I use?
We recommend using our ‘Vinylast™’. It does not require a primer but should be applied as per instructions which can be found in our Paint Brochure.
How long will it take my paint to dry?
Please see our Technical Data Sheets for further information. Different paints will have different drying times and can also be affected by the amount of thinners used, the temperature, and the thickness of the coat.
Does it matter which thinners I use?
It is very important to use the correct thinners for the type of paint. If incompatible thinners is used it can seriously affect the paint and results will be poor. We offer guidance in our Technical Data Sheets, in our catalogue, and on our website.
What is the difference between paints made for spraying or applying by brush?
Our paints are either designed either for spraying or brushing, so for best results choose the one for your application method. It is possible to use small amounts of spraying paint to apply by brush for touching up scratches, etc.
What are sheen levels?
Sheen levels refer to the amount of gloss in the paint. Unfortunately, there is no set standard for this but at F.H. Brundle we have a chart in our Metal Paints & Coatings brochure to refer to.
Can I paint over powder coating?
Our Vinylast™ works well over most powder coating. Make sure there are no loose flakes of the old coat and that it is clean and dry. We suggest that you paint a small area first to test compatibility.
What are Patinas?
Patinas are used for highlighting decorative ironwork. Best applied by sponge or brush, our Patinas are easy to use and can enhance the appearance of the work. Please see our Metal Paints & Coatings brochure for more details.
Can I mix other products with your paint?
Never mix other products with our paint (other than our recommended thinners). They may be incompatible and cause problems for you.
I seem to be having problems with my paint project, can you help?
We have a Troubleshooting section in our Metal Paints & Coatings brochure which covers common issues and suggests how to overcome them. If this does not resolve your issue then our staff can consult a specialist technician. Sending photos can often help.
Is your paint made in Britain?
Yes, our paint is made in England. It was first developed in 1980, so is tried and tested.
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