Glass Balustrades for Dutch & Belgian Architecture

In the Netherlands and Belgium, as well as in north Europe, where design, safety, and sustainability go hand-in-hand, glass balustrades are increasingly becoming the go-to solution for both modern and traditional buildings. But before choosing the right system, it’s important to clarify a common point of confusion: are balustrades and railings the same thing?

While closely related, they serve slightly different purposes. Both are safety elements used to protect from falls on balconies, staircases, or terraces.

However, balustrades traditionally have decorative origins and were often composed of small columns supporting a handrail, seen in classical architecture.

Railings, on the other hand, are more functional in nature and can be made of masonry, metal, or glass.

Today, the two terms are often used interchangeably, especially when referring to modern, minimalist glass systems.

Architecture has evolved: homes and buildings now open up to natural light and outdoor views.

Glass balustrades reflect this shift perfectly. They enhance aesthetics without sacrificing safety and have become especially popular in Dutch and Belgian real estate for their ability to provide unobstructed views and maximize daylight—key in regions where sunlight is cherished.

They offer:

• transparency that opens and enlarges spaces
• low maintenance and resistance to humidity and corrosion
• compatibility with all architectural styles: from minimal to rustic.

Not all glass is created equal. In the Dutch and Belgian markets, where safety regulations are strict and weather conditions can be challenging, choosing the right type of glass is critical:

• Laminated glass units (LGUs): a must for balconies above 3 meters. It holds together upon impact, reducing the risk of injury.
• Tempered glass: offers up to 5x the strength of regular glass and is ideal for withstanding thermal fluctuations.
• Tempered laminated glass: combines the best of both worlds and is the industry standard for certified glass balustrades.

We also offer options with special finishes:

• Frosted for privacy
• Tinted or smoked for design
• Self-cleaning for hard-to-reach installations

In climates like those in the Netherlands and Belgium, where wind loads and temperature shifts are frequent, the performance of your balustrade system can make or break the project. That’s why tempered laminated glass is not just a recommendation—it’s a necessity.

Selecting the ideal glass type for your balustrades or railings depends on several factors—design goals, safety requirements, installation complexity, and environmental exposure. The image below summarizes the key benefits and recommended uses of each glass option in a clean, visual format that’s easy to reference.

Each project has its own technical and aesthetic challenges. Below are three glass balustrade configurations that combine safety, visibility, and architectural elegance, perfectly suited to the expectations of Dutch and Belgian clients.

Safety is not optional. In Belgium and the Netherlands, installations must comply with strict EU and local standards regarding:

• Minimum height requirements
• Impact resistance (EN 12600)
• Load-bearing capacity
• CE marking for all components

Installing a glass balustrade is not a Do It Yourself job. While we specialize in the supply of high-quality glass systems, please note that we do not provide on-site installation or after-sales technical assistance. We collaborate with industry professionals to ensure our products are integrated seamlessly.

Our glass balustrade systems include:

• Base-mounted, side-mounted, or point-fixed configurations
• CE-certified components for compliance and durability

Maintenance is simple: use a neutral cleaner and avoid abrasive materials. For extra durability, we recommend protective coatings every 6–8 months.

Glass is one of the most sustainable materials available: 100% recyclable and long-lasting. Our glass systems, especially when paired with Coperniglass – our green glass solution – offer both environmental performance and design innovation.

By choosing glass balustrades from Vetreria Valmarecchia, you invest in safety, beauty, and a sustainable future.

Whether you’re developing a new property or renovating an existing one, glass balustrades are the smart choice for elevating design and comfort. With nearly 50 years of experience and cutting-edge products like Coperniglass, Vetreria Valmarecchia is your trusted partner for timeless, energy-conscious architecture in the Dutch and Belgian markets.

Get in touch to explore the perfect glass solution for your project.