Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Stair Balustrade
Stair Balustrade
info
Stair balustrade
Technical details
Building Regulations - 92
Timber overview - 93
Staircase terminology - 94 to 95
Staircase configurations - 96 to 121
Installation information - 122-125
Finishing advice - 126 to 127
We want to make it as easy as possible for you to have the staircase youve always wanted.
So weve brought together all our experience and know-how to create STAIRPLANNER a simple, online tool that helps you design your new stair balustrade in just a few easy
steps.
Even better, its completely free. Just visit www.richardburbidge.com and follow the link to
STAIRPLANNER, which will take you through each stage of the planning process from
start to finish. You can choose from different timbers, spindles and newels, and your
selections will be shown on a virtual staircase to give you a realistic idea of how it will look.
Once youve made your decisions, you can download easy-to-understand plans and fully
priced parts lists that you can take to your nearest Richard Burbidge stockist. Together,
well turn your plan into reality.
Remember, if you cannot find what you need or if you would like a little extra help, just call
us and we can access your STAIRPLANNER design to help you sort it.
91
Building Regulations
Approved Document K of the Building Regulations 1992: Stairs, Ramps and Guards
gives provisions for stairways in the design and building of stairways which form part
of the structure and guidance on the aspects of geometry and guarding of stairs.
BS585 Part 1 1989: Woodstairs covers specifications for stairs with closed risers for
domestic use, including straight and winder flights and quarter or half landings.
Appendix A of this standard also details the recommendations for the site fixing of
stairs.
BS5395 Part 1 1977: Stairs, Ladders and Walkways covers the design of straight stairs.
BS6180 1982: Code of practice for protective barriers in and about buildings.
DEFINITIONS
Private stairs intended to be used for only one dwelling with a maximum rise of
220mm and a minimum going of 220mm. A maximum pitch of 42 is stipulated for
domestic stairs. Institutional and assembly stairs serving a place where a substantial
number of people will gather, with a maximum rise of 150mm and a minimum going
of 280mm. Buildings with a maximum rise of 190mm and a minimum going of 250mm
are covered by all other stairs.
Note - Institutional and assembly stairs plus other, both reference Approved
Document M, Access and facilities for disabled people for the maximum permissible
rise of stairs providing access for disabled people.
The normal relationship between the dimensions of the rise and going can be
expressed as detailed in Approved Document K, which states that twice the rise plus
the going (2R+G) should be between 550mm and 700mm.
Pitch - The angle between the pitch line (notional line connecting nosings) and the
horizontal. The maximum pitch for domestic stairs is 42, semi-public stairs, e.g.
factories, offices and common stairs serving more than one dwelling, 38 and public
stairs, e.g. places of public assembly, 33.
Height of handrails - Approved Document K states that flights should have a handrail
on at least one side if they are less than one metre wide and on both sides if they are
wider than one metre. There is no need for handrails beside the bottom two steps of a
stairway. Minimum domestic handrail heights of 900mm for both stairs and landings,
public handrail heights should be a minimum of 900mm on stairs and 1100mm on
landings.
It is also a Building Regulations requirement that no openings in any balustrading
should allow the passage of a 100mm sphere.
Timber overview
Timber overview
Pine - Pinus sylvestris L.: Commonly referred to as European redwood or Scots pine.
Creamy white to yellow sapwood with a distinctive yellow/reddish brown resinous
heartwood. Ideal for painting, staining and varnishing. Average weight 510kg/m3.
Hemlock - Tsuga heterophylla Sarge: Western hemlock, a non-resinous North
American softwood. Pale brown, straight grained with a fairly even texture. Can be
painted, stained, varnished or polished. Average weight 500kg/m3.
Sapele - Entandrophragma cylindricum Sprague: Distributed in West and East Africa.
Medium to dark reddish brown heartwood, similar to mahogany in colour. Sapele is
characterised by a marked and regular stripe with an interlocked/wavy grain and is
fairly close textured. Stains, varnishes and polishes extremely well. Average weight
640kg/m3.
White Oak - Quercus alba and petraea. USA, Canada and Europe. A straight-grained
medium to course texture hardwood. Ranges in colour from pale yellow brown to pale
brown. Stains and polishes well and can also be limed. Average weight 720 to
760kg/m.
American White Ash - Fraximus Americana. Distributed throughout USA and Canada.
A generally straight-grained hardwood, pale brown in colour sometimes tinged red.
Stains and polishes well. Average weight 670kg/m.
European Beech - Fagus sylvatica L.: No colour distinction between sapwood and
heartwood, the timber being pale pink following medium steaming. An immensely
strong timber that outperforms oak for bending strength, stiffness and shear by some
20%. It is also stronger in resistance to impact loads. It works well, producing a good,
smooth surface and stains and polishes to an excellent finish. Average weight
720kg/m3.
ACCLIMATISATION
IMPORTANT - You should note that acclimatising timber products by leaving in the
room or a room with a similar humidity for at least 48 hours is essential if problems
associated with shrinkage and expansion are to be avoided. Storing stair balustrading,
for example, in a cold and damp garage for months and then using for immediate
internal installation is not good trade practice. This is due to timber being a natural
material that both absorbs and loses moisture. The rule of thumb to remember is
timber plus water/moisture equals expansion and timber plus heat equals
shrinkage. It is therefore extremely important to seal/finish your timber products once
installed by painting, staining or varnishing (see page 126 for some ideas).
92
93
Staircase terminology
Staircase terminology
Baluster/spindle - The vertical member, plain or decorative, that acts as the infill
between the handrail and baserail (or tread if cut string).
Terminology
Terminology
Balustrade - The collective name for the complete assembly of handrails, baserails,
newels, spindles and caps.
Wall
string
Bracket fix - Patented Richard Burbidge Limited system which uses a bracket to fix the
handrail to the specially designed newels.
St
ep
Bullnose step - Usually at the bottom of the stairs with one or both ends of the step
having a quarter circle design.
Handrail
Closed string - A string with the face housed/trenched to accommodate treads and
risers so their profile cannot be seen.
Blockings
Riser
Newel
Tread
Baluster/spindle
Bracket
String
capping
Carriage
Curtail step - A decorative shaped step at the bottom of the stairs usually
accommodating the volute and volute newel turning of the continuous handrail
system.
Closed
string
Cut string
Nosing
Cut or open string - A string with the upper edge cut away to the shape of the treads
and risers so that their profile can be seen from the side.
Going - The going of a flight of stairs is the horizontal distance between the face of
the first and last risers. The individual going of a step is measured from face of riser to
face of riser and for domestic use should be a minimum of 220mm.
Pitch line
Nosing
Riser
Balusters
Rise
Pitch - The angle between the pitch line and the horizontal.
Pitch line - The notional line connecting the nosings of all treads in a flight of stairs.
Handrail
Going
Tread
99mm
MAX
Rise - The rise of a flight is the vertical distance between the floors or landings
connected by the flight. The individual rise is the vertical measurement from top of
tread to top of tread.
Outer string
Riser - The board that forms the face of the step. The maximum individual rise for
domestic flights is 220mm.
Pitch line
Floor
Floor or
landing
Headroom
of not less
than 2m
measured
vertically
above the
pitch line.
Pitch line
Rise of step
Going
of step
Rise of flight
Staircase - The entire structure relating to a stair, comprising steps, treads, risers,
strings, balustrading, landings etc.
Winders - Are radiating steps narrower at one end that are used to change the
direction of a stairs through 90 or 180.
Going of flight
94
95
Staircase configurations
Straight handrail
Fig. 3 - Bottom of flight - Dog leg with bullnose step
All diagrams are based on domestic staircases with a maximum pitch of 42, individual
rise of 200mm and individual going of 223mm. Handrail heights for both stairs and
landing are illustrated at the minimum UK Building Regulations stipulation of 900mm.
Further advice on all systems is available by contacting our technical advisors on
+44 (0) 1691 678212.
HDR or LHR
Handrail
NC3
Straight handrail
Configurations
Richard Burbidge stair balustrade components have been designed for use in the
majority of staircase configurations. No staircase need present a problem if the
components are used and installed in the correct manner. To assist, the following
bracket fix, straight handrail and continuous handrail configurations illustrate the most
popular bottom of flight, intermediate and top landing options in the construction of
staircases. The individual components are identified on each illustration together with
a simple plan view of the stairs.
Acorn cap
NT160
Newel turning
BR
Baserail
NB915
Newel base
Handrail
NC2
HDR or LHR
Ball cap
Handrail
NC3
NT160
Acorn cap
Newel turning
NT160
Newel turning
BR
BR
Baserail
Baserail
NB510
Newel base
NB1375
Newel base
Handrail
HDR
Handrail
NC2
Ball cap
NT160
Newel turning
NC2
Ball cap
NT160
Newel turning
NB1375
Newel base
BR
Baserail
BR
Baserail
NB915
Newel base
NB510
Newel base
96
97
Straight handrail
Straight handrail
HDR
Handrail
Straight handrail
Straight handrail
Acorn cap
NT415
Newel turning
NC2
HDR or LHR
Ball cap
Handrail
NT160
Newel turning
NB915
Newel base
NB1375
Newel base
NB700
NB510
Newel
base
Newel base
BR
Baserail
HDR or LHR
Handrail
NC3
Acorn cap
NT415
Newel turning
NT415
Newel turning
VT
Vertical turn
UE
Concave ramp
NT160
HDR or LHR
Newel turning
Handrail
NB2000
NT160
Newel base
Newel turning
BR
BR
Baserail
Baserail
NB700
Newel base
NB915
Newel base
Ball cap
NC2
Ball cap
VT
Vertical turn
UE
Concave
ramp
NT160
NT202
Newel turning
Newel turning
HDR or
LHR
NB2850
Newel base
Handrail
NB915
98
HDR or LHR
Newel base
Handrail
BR
BR
Baserail
Baserail
99
Straight handrail
Straight handrail
NC2
NC3
Acorn cap
Straight handrail
Straight handrail
Ball cap
NT415
Newel turning
NT415
Newel turning
1100mm
VT
Spindle
Vertical turn
UE
Concave ramp
HDR or LHR
Handrail
HDR or LHR
Handrail
NB2000
NB915
Newel base
Newel base
BR
Baserail
BR
Baserail
NC2
NC2
NT160 Ball cap
Ball cap
Newel
turning
HDR or LHR
Handrail
NB700
NT415
Newel turning
HDR or LHR
Handrail
Newel drop
(adapted)
NB915
Newel base
BR
Baserail
NC2
Ball cap
BR
Baserail
NC3
HT
HDR or LHR
Acorn cap
Horizontal turn
Handrail
NC3HALF
Half acorn cap
NC2
Ball cap
UE
Concave ramp
HT
VT
Horizontal turn
Vertical turn
Vertical turn
UE
UE
Concave ramp
NT160
Newel turning
NB915
Newel base
BR
Baserail
100
VT
Concave ramp
HDR or LHR
Handrail
NT160
Newel turning
NT160D
NB915
Half newel
turning
Newel base
NB510
Newel base
101
Straight handrail
Straight handrail
NC3
HT
NC2HALF
Acorn cap
Horizontal turn
NT160HALF
HDR or LHR
Handrail
Straight handrail
Straight handrail
NC2
Ball cap
NT160
Newel turning
HDR or LHR
Handrail
NB700
NB510HALF
Newel base
BR
Baserail
NT160
NB700
Newel turning
Newel base
NC3
NC2
HDR or LHR
Ball cap
Handrail
Acorn cap
HT
Horizontal turn
NT415
Newel turning
VT
Vertical turn
UE
Concave ramp
NB1375
Newel base
HDR or LHR
Handrail
BR
Baserail
HDR or LHR
Handrail
NT160HALF
HT
Horizontal turn
90
0m
m
NB510HALF
Half newel base
102
ma
x.
NB700
NT160
Newel base
Newel turning
NB700
BR
Newel base
Baserail
103
Continuous handrail
Continuous handrail
HDR
HC
Handrail
Horizontal cap
Continuous handrail
Continuous handrail
UE
Concave ramp
VL-RH
Volute
VT
Vertical turn
UE
Concave ramp
NT0
BR
Baserail
NTV
Newel turning
HDR Handrail
Newel turning
1100mm
NB915
Spindle
Newel base
BR
4 x 1100mm
Baserail
Spindles
VT
HC
Vertical turn
Horizontal cap
HDR
HDR
Handrail
Handrail
UE
UE
Concave ramp
Concave ramp
NT0
Newel turning
OC
Opening cap
NT0
Newel turning
BR
NB700
Baserail
NB700
Newel base
BR
NC2
Baserail
Ball cap
Newel drop
(adapted)
HC
HT
Horizontal cap
Horizontal turn
HDR
Handrail
VT
NT0
Vertical turn
Newel turning
VT
Vertical turn
UE
UE
Concave ramp
HDR
UE
Concave ramp
Handrail
104
NT0
Newel turning
1100mm
Spindle
1100mm
Spindle
Concave ramp
NB915
NB700
Newel base
Newel base
BR
BR
Baserail
Baserail
105
Continuous handrail
Bracket fix
Horizontal cap
Handrail
HDR or LHR
Handrail
Continuous handrail
HC
NC2
Bracket fix
Ball cap
N160
Newel turning
BR
Baserail
NB700
NB510
Newel base
Newel base
NT0
Newel turning
HDR or LHR
Handrail
HDR
Handrail
NC2
SC
Ball cap
Straight cap
N160
Newel turning
BR
Baserail
NB915
NT0
Newel base
Newel turning
NB700
Newel base
NC3
Acorn cap
N160
Newel turning
BR
Baserail
NB915
Newel base
106
107
Bracket fix
Bracket fix
Fig. 7 - Bottom of stairs - Dog leg with double bullnose
and pulpit end
HDR or LHR
Handrail
Handrail
NC3
NC3
Acorn cap
Bracket fix
Bracket fix
Acorn cap
N160
Newel turning
N415A
BR
Adapted bracket
fix newel
Baserail
N160B
NB1375
Newel base
N160
Newel turning
Newel turning
N160B
Newel turning
BR
Baserail
NB700
NB915
Newel base
Newel base
Handrail
NC3
Acorn cap
N415A
Newel turning
NC2
Ball cap
N415A
Newel turning
HDR or LHR
Handrail
N160
Newel turning
NB915
NB1375
Newel base
Newel base
BR
BR
Baserail
Baserail
NB510
Newel base
N415A
Newel turning
HDR
Handrail
NC2
VT
Ball cap
Vertical turn
N160
Newel turning
N160A
Adapted bracket
fix newel
NB700
Newel base
108
NB1375
UE
Concave ramp
HDR or LHR
Handrail
Newel base
NB2000
NB510
Newel base
Newel base
BR
Baserail
109
Bracket fix
Bracket fix
NC2
NC3
Ball cap
Acorn cap HT
Horizontal turn
HDR or LHR
NC3HALF
VT
N415A
Newel turning
HDR or LHR
Vertical turn
Half acorn
cap
Handrail
UE
N160D
Concave ramp
Half newel
turning
NB915
Newel base
N160A
BR
Bracket fix
Bracket fix
Handrail
Newel turning
Baserail
NB915
Newel base
NB510
Newel base
Acorn cap
NC3
Acorn cap
HT
Horizontal turn
1100mm
Spindle
N415A
N160A
Adapted bracket
fix newels
Newel turning
HDR or LHR
HDR or LHR
Handrail
Handrail
NB700
NB915
Newel base
Newel base
BR
Baserail
BR
Baserail
Acorn cap
NC2
HDR or LHR
Ball cap
Handrail
HT
Horizontal turn
N160A
Newel turning
N415A
Newel turning
VT
NB700
Vertical turn
Newel base
(adapted)
UE
Concave ramp
NB1375
Newel base
BR
Baserail
NC2
Ball cap
110
HDR or LHR
Handrail
BR
Baserail
111
Bracket fix
Bracket fix
HDR or LHR
Handrail
N160D
HT
Horizontal turn
HDR
Bracket fix
Bracket fix
Handrail
NC2
Ball cap
NB510HALF
Half newel base
90
0m
m
ma
x.
BR
Baserail
N160B
Adapted bracket
fix newel
NC2HALF
HDR or LHR
NB700
Handrail
Newel base
N160D
Half newel turning
NC2
Ball cap
NB510HALF
Half newel base
N160B
NB700
Newel turning
Newel base
HDR or LHR
Handrail
NB700
Newel base
N160B
Newel turning
112
113
FUSION Domestic
Fig. 1 Bottom flight - FUSION straight with straight
step
CUT STRING
RHR
Pre-finished
handrail
FUSION
Bracket fix
There are two ways of installing spindles to a cut string staircase. The traditional method
used by professional tradesmen is to fix the spindles to the top of the tread by constructing
a stub tenon woodworking joint. An alternative and more modern way of fixing is to cut
individual lengths of baserail and screw to each tread. The spindles and fillets are then fixed
as normal by glueing and pinning. This method is excellent for carpet finishes.
Fig. 1 - Cut string
HDR or LHR
MMBC
Handrail
Bottom connector
RHR750F
MMSB
Newel
Staircase
baluster &
bracket
MMNC
Base connector
SBR
Pre-finished
baserail
1100mm
NB510
Spindle
Newel base
RHR
Pre-finished
handrail
MMBC
Bottom connector
MMSB
Staircase
baluster &
bracket
RHR750F
Newel
SBR
MMNC
Pre-finished
baserail
Base connector
NB915
Newel base
Mitred handrail
joint is glued
and can be
fixed by screws,
dowels or
metal plate
Pre-finished
handrail
MMSB
Staircase
baluster &
bracket
MMBC
Bottom connector
Diminishing
spindles
Diminishing
spindles
Length of
handrail on
underside of
second flight
string glued
and screwed
RHR750F
Newel
MMNC
Base connector
SBR
Pre-finished
baserail
NB915
Newel base
114
115
FUSION Domestic
FUSION Domestic
Fig. 7 Intermediate landing - FUSION quarter turn
with three winders
FUSION
MMBC
Bottom connector
MMBC
RHR
Bottom connector
Pre-finished
handrail
RHR750F
RHR750F
Newel
Newel
MMSB
MMSB
Staircase
baluster &
bracket
MMNC
Base connector
SBR
Pre-finished
baserail
NB1375
Newel base
FUSION
Pre-finished
handrail
Staircase
baluster &
bracket
MMNC
Base connector
SBR
Pre-finished
baserail
MMIC
Intermediate
connector
NB915
Newel base
Bottom connector
MMHL
MMHL
MMBC
Half landing
connector
Bottom
connector
MMLC
Landing connector
MMTC
MMSB
Staircase
baluster &
bracket
MMAL
Adj. landing
connector
MMLB
Landing
baluster &
bracket
Top connector
RHR750F
Newel
MMNC
SBR
Base connector
MMLB
Pre-finished
baserail
NB915
Landing
baluster &
bracket
NB915
RHR
Newel base
NB700
MMLC
MMNC
Newel base
Landing connector
Base connector
Newel base
MMSB
Pre-finished
handrail
Staircase
baluster &
bracket
SBR
Pre-finished
baserail
MMBC
MMTC
Bottom connector
Top connector
MMLC
Landing connector
RHR
Pre-finished
handrail
MMTC
Top connector
RHR750F
RHR750F
Newel
Newel
MMNC
MMNC
Base connector
MMSB
Base connector
RHR
Staircase
baluster &
bracket
NB700
Pre-finished
handrail
NB915
Newel base
SBR
Pre-finished
baserail
116
Newel base
SBR
Pre-finished
baserail
MMSB
MMLB
Landing
Staircase
baluster & baluster &
bracket
bracket
117
FUSION Domestic
FUSION Domestic
MMLC
Landing connector
RHR
MMAL
Pre-finished
handrail
MMHTR/L
MMLB
Landing
baluster &
bracket
RHR750F
FUSION
FUSION
Horizontal turn
MMLB
Landing
baluster &
bracket
Newel
MMTC
Top connector
MMNC
Base connector
NB915
Newel base
SBR
RHR
Pre-finished
handrail
MMSB
Staircase
baluster &
bracket
SBR
Pre-finished baserail
MMHTR/L
Landing connector
Horizontal turn
RHR750F
Pre-finished
baserail
Newel
NB700
MMNC
Newel base
Base connector
RHR
Pre-finished
handrail
MMLB
Landing
baluster &
bracket
RHR750F
Newel
MMTC
Top connector
RHR750F
Newel
MMNC
MMLB
Base connector
Newel base
Landing
baluster &
bracket
RHR
MMNC
NB700
Pre-finished
handrail
MMSB
SBR
Staircase baluster
& bracket
Pre-finished
baserail
Base connector
SBR
NB700
Pre-finished
baserail
Newel base
MMHTR/L
Wall connector
Horizontal turn
MMLC
Landing connector
MMLC
Landing connector
MMLB
RHR750F
Newel
MMNC
Landing
baluster &
bracket
RHR750F
Base connector
Newel
MMIC
Intermediate connector
NB1375
Newel base
Pre-finished
handrail
SBR
Pre-finished
baserail
118
MMNC
MMLB
RHR
MMSB
Staircase
baluster &
bracket
Landing
baluster &
bracket
Base connector
SBR
NB635
Pre-finished
baserail
Newel base
119
FUSION Domestic
FUSION Domestic
FUSION
Intermediate
newel connector
RHR
RHR
MMWC
Pre-finished
round
handrail
Wall connector
MMBC
MMSB
Bottom
connector
Staircase
baluster &
bracket
FUSION
MMINC
MMLC
Landing
connector
MMSB
RHR750
Suspended
baserail
connector
Newel
RHR750
Newel
SBR
Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
MMNC
Base connector
Newel base
MMNC
Base connector
MMLB
Newel base
700mm
510mm
SBR
MMBC
Newel
Bottom
connector
Landing
baluster &
bracket
Pre-finished
ungrooved
baserail
RHR
Pre-finished round
handrail
MMSB
Staircase baluster
& bracket
MMNC
Top connector
Newel base
connector
MMINC
NB700
MMTC
Newel base
Intermediate
newel connector
SBCB
Suspended baserail connector
SBR
MMNC
Pre-finished
ungrooved
baserail
MMTC
Top connector
RHR750
MMNC
Newel
Newel base
connector
MMLB
RHR
Landing baluster
& bracket
Pre-finished
round handrail
MMINC
Intermediate
newel connector
Newel base
700mm
120
MMSB
SBCB
Staircase baluster
& bracket
Suspended baserail
connector
SBR
Pre-finished
ungrooved
baserail
121
The Richard Burbidge straight handrail system (also known as posttopost) is designed for
traditional fixing using mortise and tenon joints to fix the handrails to newels.
This system is designed primarily for professional installation by tradesmen who are fully
conversant with this type of traditional woodworking joint.
This system uses straight lengths of handrail connected to a series of shaped handrail
fittings and ramps which allow the handrail to flow over the tops of newels.
We recommend that tenons are constructed so that they are a minimum one-third the
width of the handrail and half the the length of the newel post. Tenons should be draw
bored using a minimum 9mm diameter dowel.
All handrail fittings and ramps are supplied over long and will need to be cut down to suit
the individual staircase pitch.
We do not recommend the use of bracket fix newel base heights when setting out the
straight handrail system. Newel base heights for this system should be calculated by
setting out the newels and establishing where the handrail will meet the newel post.
Straight handrail system stairparts have been designed to achieve minimum domestic
handrail heights of 900mm for both stairs and landings.
To calculate how many spindles you will need count the number of treads between newels
on the stairs. Allow 2 spindles per tread and 1 spindle per tread that has a newel post. For
example a 12 tread staircase with newels at the bottom and top of the stairs will generally
require 22 spindles.
For landings and horizontal balustrades measure the horizontal distance in millimetres and
by 112 for 32mm spindles and 121 for 41mm spindles.
Continuous handrail
Straight handrail
Handrail fittings and ramps are supplied with tie-rail bolts to allow jointing of the fittings to
rails. Full instructions on how to use the tie-rail bolts are supplied with the fittings.
To calculate how many spindles you will need count the number of treads between newels
on the stairs. Allow 2 spindles per tread and 1 spindle per tread that has a newel post. For
example a 12 tread staircase with newels at the bottom and top of the stairs will generally
require 22 spindles.
For landings and horizontal balustrades measure the horizontal distance in millimetres and
by 112 for 32mm spindles, 121 for 41mm spindles, 126 for 46mm spindles and 135 for
55mm spindles.
Building Regulations state that the gap between any part of the balustrade should not
allow the passage of a 100mm sphere.
Building Regulations state that the gap between any part of the balustrade should not
allow the passage of a 100mm sphere.
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123
The Richard Burbidge patented bracket fix system enables stair balustrade to be replaced
and constructed quickly and easily without the need for professional woodworking mortise
and tenon joints. The bracket fix system has been specifically designed to save time using
pre-drilled newels and a unique adjustable bracket that secures handrails to newels.
Pitch line
Bracket fix
Bracket fix
201mm
Bracket fix stairparts have been designed to achieve minimum domestic handrail heights of
900mm for both stairs and landings.
Brackets are sold individually apart from the N160D half newel which comes complete with
a universal half bracket.
To calculate how many spindles you will need count the number of treads between newels
on the stairs. Allow 2 spindles per tread and 1 spindle per tread that has a newel post. For
example a 12 tread staircase with newels at the bottom and top of the stairs will generally
require 22 spindles.
For landings and horizontal balustrades measure the horizontal distance in millimetres and
by 112 for 32mm spindles and 121 for 41mm spindles.
When using metal balusters on landings the horizontal measurement in millimetres by
112mm.
Building Regulations state that the gap between any part of the balustrade should not allow
the passage of a 100mm sphere.
Pitch line
Bottom of stairs bracket fix newel base height using
160 bracket fix bottom newel
270mm
Pitch line
Pitch line
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125
Finishing advice
Once Richard Burbidge products have been installed they must be finished to seal the
pores, protect the surface and give an attractive appearance. Successful finishing will
depend on correct preparation of the surface, filling of nail holes and sanding to remove
marks which have occurred during installation, for example.
We recommend that all finishes are applied to test pieces so that the finish obtained is the
one that you wish to achieve. Please read manufacturers instructions carefully. Richard
Burbidge display models are spray lacquered. A similar finish can be achieved using brush
applied methods follow the simple guidelines alongside for a perfect finish.
Finishing advice
French polish
This gives a very good gloss finish. It is applied by building up in layers and is made
from a mixture of shellac and alcohol, with a fair degree of skill required to achieve a
good finish. French polish does not provide any real protection, with the surface not
resistant to scratches, heat, water or alcohol and is normally applied to surfaces that
receive little wear and tear. A modern alternative two part treatment is plastic
coating, which does provide resistance to heat, liquids and scratches.
Liming
3. Allow at least eight hours to dry. Lightly rub down using a fine grade wire wool and apply
a coat of clear varnish only.
This is best applied to coarse grained woods such as oak. A traditional mixture for
liming oak can be achieved by mixing unslaked lime with water. Once applied and
semi-dry any surplus is wiped off. When dry this is rubbed down with glasspaper and
a coat of french polish is added, with a final coat of white polish to finish. Alternatively,
an easier method is to mix white matt emulsion with water to the same consistency as
milk and brush into the grain, wiping off before setting. To finish and seal two coats of
satin varnish are applied, giving an eggshell shine. Liming wax is also available, which
is quick and easy to apply.
4. Allow at least eight hours to dry and apply two further coats of clear varnish.
Paint
Use a knotting solution on live knots and resinous areas. This prevents resin
bleeding/seeping through onto the finished surface. New bare timber should have a
coat of primer, followed by one or two coats of undercoat. Finish with a topcoat of
gloss. There are numerous painting finishes and techniques, for example, crackle,
glaze, marble or mottled effects.
1. Rub down with 240 grit sandpaper and apply one coat of sanding/sealer.
2. Allow to dry and denib/sand with a fine grade wire wool.
3. Apply two coats of pre-cat lacquer (if a coloured finish is required use tinted pre-cat
lacquer).
Finishing advice
Finishing advice
Note - Remember, a clear varnish will change the colour of wood which should be
considered before deciding on a coloured finish. Practice on off-cuts before applying to
product.
The following details are examples of some of the more popular ways of finishing. Of
course, before applying your chosen finish (stain, paint or varnish) your timber product
should be properly prepared. Pin/nail holes should be filled with a proprietary filler and the
product sanded to remove blemishes that can occur during installation.
Varnish
Available in clear matt, satin and gloss finishes and also tinted/coloured, varnish gives a
tough, durable and hardwearing finish which requires minimal maintenance and is heat and
water resistant. Coloured varnishes have the advantage of being suitable for application on
previously varnished surfaces. When applying coloured varnishes you should note that as
they do not penetrate the wood like a true wood stain/dye it is a good idea to finish with a
couple of coats of clear varnish which will prevent colour loss due to wear and tear.
As well as polyurethane varnishes there are a number of acrylic/water-based varnishes which
are solvent free, have a low odour and are extremely quick drying. They also have the
advantage of easy brush maintenance and require only a quick rinse with water after use.
Oils
Oils can be used to seal timber. They do, however, tend to be used on hardwoods only as
softwoods discolour and become dirty very quickly. There are various types available which
are easy to apply, usually by rag or brush. Teak oil is quick drying whilst danish oil has the
advantage of being able to accept a varnish for added protection. Linseed oil is slow
drying and tends to be soft.
Wood stains/dyes
These will penetrate the wood and are used to enhance the colour and to some extent
unify and neutralise the natural colour variations that occur in timbers. They tend to dry
quickly and are usually applied with a cloth along the grain. Before it is dry, excess
stain/dye is wiped off with a lint-free cloth. Wood stains/dyes do not seal the timber and
require a varnish or polish application to finish.
Protective wood stains
All in one finish enhances the colour of wood and is normally brush applied. Unlike wood
stains/dyes it also seals the timber and is quick drying with further coats being applied after
just two hours.
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127
Outdoor balustrade
& decking
Technical details
Planning your deck
Building Regulations
Building your deck
Outdoor configurations
Maintenance and finishing
130 to 131
132 to 135
136 to 139
140 to 149
150 to 151
The following pages contain information on Building Regulations, how to plan and build
your deck, the suitability of products and helpful configuration drawings explaining how
and where our outdoor balustrade ranges can be used.
Remember that help is always at hand every step of the way to make your project a reality.
If you are looking for style ideas and information please refer to our brochure, if you
require stockists then our customer services team are just a call away and our technical
support team can help with planning and installation advice.
Customer services +44 (0) 1691 678300
Technical helpline +44 (0) 1691 678212
www.richardburbidge.com
We think creating the decking youve always wanted should be easy. So using all our
experience and know-how weve created DECKPLANNER - a simple, and completely
free, online tool that helps you design your new decking and outdoor balustrade in just a
few easy steps.
All you have to do is visit www.richardburbidge.com and follow the link to
DECKPLANNER. Youll be taken through each stage of planning your new decking and
balustrade from start to perfect finish. All our outdoor balustrade ranges are there to
choose from, with all the spindle, newel and panel options and whatever you go for
youll be shown a realistic idea of how your design will look. Easy.
Once youve made your decisions you can download easy to understand plans and
drawings showing each part. Simply take your print-outs which have fully priced parts lists,
product codes and quantities, to your nearest Richard Burbidge stockist and theyll help
you turn your plan into reality.
Remember, if you cannot find what you need or if you would like a little extra help, just call
us and we can access your DECKPLANNER design to help you sort it.
129
Before you build your deck you will need to plan it. If the deck is to look good when its
finished, then it needs to be planned and designed carefully. There are a number of
aspects that should be considered when planning the size and position of your deck.
DECKPLANNER
Will it be functional, decorative or both? The size of the deck can be determined by a
combination of available space, changes in the level of the site, access to existing
services such as drains and overall project costs.
Our simple, free online planning tool will help you design your new outdoor balustrade
and decking project in just a few easy steps. All the options you require are there to choose
from such as different ranges, spindles and newels and are shown as a virtual balustrade to
give you a realistic idea of how your balustrade and decking will look. Once you have made
your decisions you can download easy to understand plans and fully priced parts lists and
take to your nearest Richard Burbidge stockist. Together well turn your plan into reality.
Storage
Will the deck be at ground level or elevated? Whilst elevated decks will allow better views of
the surroundings it will also allow the surroundings such as your neighbours to have a better
view of you. Trellis, balustrades and foliage will help screen unwanted views and provide
some privacy.
If there are any underground services beneath the proposed deck area such as drainage
pipes and manhole covers you will need to add an easy access feature to the proposed deck
design such as a trapdoor. Alternatively you may decide to reposition the deck to avoid
underground services.
Once you have purchased your decking materials you will need an area to store them
before and during the construction of the deck and installation of the balustrades. In the UK,
the moisture content of exposed timber is usually around 18%. Exposure to heavy rainfall or
warm sun will cause the timber to swell or shrink respectively. To make sure the decking
materials do not pick up too much moisture or are allowed to dry out on site, stack all the
materials on bearers that are well clear of wet areas, preferably at least 150mm off the ground
level. Stack the decking so that air can easily circulate around and between them using timber
battens or spindles.
To make the most of the summer months plan the finished position of the deck to utilise
existing shaded features such as trees or the sides of buildings. The heat reflected off a
south facing wall will turn a cool deck into a warm one whilst trees will cool a south
facing deck in the summer.
Protect the materials from rain using a waterproof cover, this cover should not be wrapped so
tightly that it prevents air circulation and condensation. Careful storage will also prevent the
timber from getting dirty and stained. Generally the less time the timber is on site the better.
Deckboard laying patterns should not be overlooked at the planning stage as they can
affect the overall appearance of the finished deck. Position the deck so that it is easily
seen from the house if children are to use unsupervised.
If the proposed site is exposed to wind then a partial screen of balustrades, trellis or
foliage will act as a wind break without completely blocking it and will also allow some
cooling on warm days.
As well as careful planning and good construction techniques successful deck planning also
requires careful site preparation. Once the area has been cleared of all vegatation
including shrubs and any trees it should be levelled. Slightly slope the ground towards the
outer edge of the deck to allow for adequate drainage and to prevent water stagnating. If
the deck is attached to the side of the house or building the slope should fall away from
the building and not run to it.
Drawing plans
How well you consider size, usage, climate, views, privacy, costs, relationship to the house
and overall site evaluation will determine how often you use the deck. Before setting out
your ideas onto paper, walk the site and visualise how the deck will look from the house
and its surroundings. Measure the site and transfer these measurements onto paper. A
good working drawing is important as not only will it help visualise the finished deck but
also make estimating the materials needed easier.
Try and work to a reasonable size scale, 1:20 is ideal, using either graph paper or a scale
ruler. Draw the deck and also add other design considerations such as boundaries, trees,
buildings, shrub and planting borders. You may find two views help, a plan view showing
the deck directly from above and an elevation from the side, this view helps if you have
variations in ground level.
As well as illustrating the overall size of the deck and deckboard laying pattern also include
the position of post centres, posts, beam, joist and balustrade arrangements as this again
makes estimating easier.
Planning permission
As a general rule domestic timber decks are regarded in exactly the same way as private
patios and do not require planning approval unless they are within 20 metres of a road or
higher than 300mm from the ground.
If a deck forms part of the design features of a new building or extension, the size and
shape of the deck should be included on drawings submitted for planning approval but the
deck itself would not normally be subject to approval.
For existing residential properties a ground level deck will not need to be submitted for
approval under the current UK Building Regulations. A high level deck however will need
to be designed to ensure that it will be structurally stable. As such calculations may be
required proving the deck is capable of taking the necessary loading if the high level deck
is submitted as part of a new house to your local Building Control office.
Remove any obstacles and if desired redirect drain pipes. Apply a proprietary weed killer
and cover with a weed block membrane available from most garden centres. Cover this
membrane with approximately 50mm thickness of gravel to hold in place. 3 x 25kg bags of
gravel will cover an area of 2m2.
Important information
Do not burn preserved wood. Dispose of all decking off-cuts as ordinary household
waste. Do not burn on open fires, barbecues or stoves.
Always wear gloves to avoid splinters and protect hands.
Wear safety goggles when using power tools and a dust mask when cutting all timber
components.
All saw dust and construction debris should be cleaned and disposed of after
construction.
Avoid prolonged inhalation of sawdust and always wash hands before eating, drinking
and smoking.
Wash all work clothes separately from other household clothing.
For decks over 600mm above ground level consult a reputable builder or structural
engineer.
Do not bridge the damp course or cover air bricks when fixing to the side of a house or
building.
Use Richard Burbidge fixings where stated. All other fixings should be either stainless
steel, hot dipped galvanised or coated specifically for exterior use.
All cut ends and drill holes on all treated timber deckboards, joists, posts and
balustrades must be treated with a suitable proprietary end coat.
Read all Richard Burbidge instructions carefully before commencing any construction
and installation work.
Due to the preservative treatment Richard Burbidge softwood treated decking is not
suitable for use in direct contact with garden ponds.
Mould growth can occur on treated and untreated timber during prolonged exposure to
excessive moisture. To remove mould, first let the timber dry and then wash the effected
area with mild soapy water.
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131
Timber decks for residential installation are not as such referenced in current UK Building
Regulations. However as the regulations state that stairs and balustrades should be
designed and installed for the safe movement in or about buildings it can be assumed that
they do apply especially with regards to balustrades.
The TDA (Timber Decking Association) technical bulletin on the design and construction of
deck balustrade details two types of deck, low level and high level. A low level deck is any
deck up to 600mm above ground level with high level referring to all other decks higher
than 600mm.
For low level residential decks the balustrade should be set at a minimum height of
900mm on both stairs and landings and resist a minimum horizontal uniformly
distributed line load of 0.36kN/m, a uniformily distributed load applied to the infill of
0.5kN/m2 and a point load applied to part of the infill of 0.25kN.
Building Regulations
High level domestic decks and external balconies (all decks and balustrades over
600mm above ground level) should have the balustrade set at a minimum height of
900mm for stairs/steps and 1100mm on landings/horizontal guarding. The balustrade
should resist a minimum horizontal uniformly distributed line load of 0.74kN/m, a
uniformly distributed load applied to the infill of 1.0kN/m and a point load applied to
part of the infill of 0.5kN.
Commercial decks in public areas used to move people through and not susceptible to
overcrowding including stairs/steps, landings, external balconies and ramps should have
the balustrade set at a minimum height of 900mm on stairs/steps and 1100mm on
landings/horizontal guarding. The balustrade should resist a minimum horizontal
uniformly distributed line load of 0.74kN/m, a uniformly distributed load applied to the
infill of 1.0kN/m and a point load applied to part of the infill of 0.5kN.
Additionally balustrades in commerical areas with tables or fixed seating where people
may congregate and are susceptible to overcrowding should have the balustrade set at
900mm on stairs and 1100mm for landings and horizontal guarding. Balustrades for
these environments should resist a minimum horizontal uniformly distributed line load of
1.5kN/m, a uniformly distributed load applied to the infill of 1.5kN/m2 and a point load
applied to part of the infill of 1.5kN.
The balustrade should be designed so that it is not easily climbable and not allow the
passage of a 100mm sphere.
Richard Burbidge offers different systems specifically designed for these different
situations.
Document K: Building Regulations 1992
This regulation details that stairs/steps should be designed, constructed and installed so
that they are safe for people to use when moving between different levels in buildings. Key
points include;
Twice the rise plus the going (2R+G) should be between 550 and 700mm.
For commercial situations the guarding should be able to resist a horizontal loading
of 0.74kN per metre for public stairs not susceptible to overcrowding and 1.5KN for all
other public stairs.
The maximum pitch for domestic stairs/steps is 42 and between 33 and 38 for public
stairs/steps depending on its use.
Private stairs/steps are defined as those used for only one dwelling using any rise between
155mm and 220mm with any going between 245mm and 260mm or alternatively any rise
between 165mm and 200mm used with any going between 223mm and 300mm.
Stairs/steps that serve a building where a substantial group of people gather are defined as
Institutional & Assembly using any rise between 135mm and 180mm with any going
between 280mm and 340mm.
Stairs/steps for all other buildings are defined as Other with the rise described as 150mm
and 190mm used with any going between 250mm and 320mm.
When calculating the relationship between the rise and going the dimensions should be
twice the rise plus the going (2R+G) must be between 550mm and 700mm.
British Standards
British Standards relevant to using wood externally that have relevance to designing and
constructing decks and external balustrades include;
BS 585 Part 1 1989: Wood stairs. Specification for stairs with closed risers for domestic use,
including straight and winder flights and quarter or half landings.
This document covers the specifications for stairs with closed risers for domestic use,
including straight and winder flights and quarter or half landings. Appendix A of this
standard gives details for the site fixing of stairs and Appendix B guidance for the design of
stairs with winders. Other sections of this standard cover the recommendations for treads
and risers, strings, newels, construction, handrails and balustrades.
BS 585 Part 2 1985: Wood stairs. Specification for performance requirements for
domestic stairs constructed of wood-based materials.
Specifies the performance requirements for domestic straight flight stairs including those
with quarter and half landings constructed from wood based materials.
Appendix B of this standard includes details for test methods used to establish stair and
tread deflection and balustrade static load and impact tests.
BS 5395-1:2000: Stairs, Ladders and Walkways. Code of practice for the design,
construction and maintenance of straight stairs and winders.
Gives recommendations for the design, construction and maintenance of straight flight
stairs including landings and winders in a number of materials and for all types of buildings.
Table 1 of this document gives recommended sizes for private, public and assembly stairs
and Figure 4 the relationship between the rise, going and pitch. This document also covers
recommedations and guidance on safety including accidents on stairs, handrails, steps,
rise, going, treads, pitch headroom and stair width. Section 10 gives details on the
materials used to construct stairs including, timber, concrete, steel and aluminium.
Handrails should be provided to at least one side if the stairs/steps are less than 1 metre
wide.
BS 5395 Part 2 1984: Stairs, ladders and walkways. Code of practice for the design of
helical and spiral stairs.
For stairs/steps wider than 1 metre handrails should be provided to both sides.
Scope covers recommendations for the design of both helical and spiral stairs used
internally and externally in all types of buildings. This standard covers all stairs which are
circular on plan. Table 2 details the sizes of stairs for small private, private, small-semi
public, semi-public and public use.
BS 6399 Part 1 1996: Loadings for buildings. Code of practice for dead and imposed
loads.
For public situations the handrail should be set at a minimum height of 900mm on stairs
and 1100mm on landings/horizontal guarding.
Gives recommended dead and imposed loads for use in designing new buildings and
structures, alterations to existing buildings and the change of use to an existing
construction. Section 10 and Table 4 covers parapets, barriers and balustrades and the
minimum horizontal imposed loads.
There should be no opening in the balustrade/guarding that would allow the passage
of a 100mm sphere
Building Regulations
The "guarding" should be able to resist a horizontal loading of 0.36kN per metre run for
ground level domestic situations and 0.74kN per metre for raised level domestic
situations.
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Building Regulations
This British Standard gives recommendations for stress grades applicable to timber when
used as members, as part of a construction and as part of a structure including other
components. Detailing for the design of nailed, screwed, bolted, dowelled, connected and
glued joints are are also covered. This document additionally gives recommendations for
test methods to assess structural assemblies with guidance on workmanship, treatments,
inspection and maintenance.
BS EN 350-1 Durability of wood and wood based products.
Building Regulations
Covers wood classification systems, hazards, grading, sampling, durability and physical
properties. Used in conjunction with BS EN 350-2 which details guidance on the natural
durability and treatability of selected wood species of importance in Europe.
Suitability for use
Richard Burbidge external balustrade systems in all timber types have been independently
tested by both TRADA and FIRA for conformity with UK Building Regulations.
All balustrade systems conform with the requirements for domestic use as detailed in Table
4 of BS 6399 : Part 1 : 1996 Loadings for buildings.
Domestic settings - All areas within or serving exclusively one dwelling including stairs and
landings, the balustrades should resist a minimum horizontal uniformly distributed line load
of 0.36kN/m, a uniformily distributed load applied to the infill of 0.5kN/m2 and a point load
applied to part of the infill of 0.25kN. For decks above 600mm above ground balustrades
need to conform to the same requirements as the heavier loadings detailed in the
commercial settings section.
Raised domestic and light commercial settings - Some of our systems have been tested
and conform to the increased loading requirements for commercial applications which are
defined as areas not susceptible to overcrowding in office, leisure and institutional
buildings such as hotels, doctors and dental surgeries and stairs in multi occupancy
buildings such as apartments. In these applications the increased requirements detail that a
balustrade should resist a minimum horizontal uniformly distributed line load of 0.74kN/m,
a uniformly distributed load applied to the infill of 1.0kN/m2 and a point load applied to
part of the infill of 0.5kN.
Heavy commercial settings - Additionally balustrades in commerical areas with tables or
fixed seating where people may congregate and are susceptible to overcrowding should
have the balustrade set at 900mm on stairs and 1100mm for landings and horizontal
guarding. Balustrades for these environments should resist a minimum horizontal uniformly
distributed line load of 1.5kN/m, a uniformly distributed load applied to the infill of
1.5kN/m2 and a point load applied to part of the infill of 1.5kN.
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135
Fig.2
For ground level and elevated decks it is important that the proposed site is marked
out accurately if you want the finished deck to be square. To create a square deck and
determine the overall size, mark out the area using a basic building technique
consisting of batter boards (horizontal boards with a peg at each end to secure into
the ground), pegs and string line (Fig. 2). To check the corners are 90 use a 3-4-5
builders square, which you can construct from straight lengths of timber, creating a
triangle with sides in the ratio of 3-4-5 e.g. 60cm, 80cm and 100cm. Adjust the string
lines accordingly until square (Fig. 2).
Fig.3
The construction methods for building either a ground level deck or elevated deck are
basically the same; both are fixed to a frame constructed of Richard Burbidge 150 x
47mm joists. The main difference between the two is that for ground level decks you
can use concrete paving slabs if desired rather than structural posts and beams to
support the decks frame (Fig. 3).
Ground level decks
As previously mentioned, a ground level deck can be laid onto concrete paving slabs.
Use a minimum slab size of 600 x 600 x 50mm and bed these into position with either
mortar, sand and cement or sand. Space the paving slabs at maximum centres of
1800mm. The frame to support and fix the deckboards is constructed from Richard
Burbidge 150 x 47mm joists. These should be spaced at maximum 400mm centres
and fixed to each other using Richard Burbidge landscape screws and/or galvanised
nails, joist hangers, metal angles or 100 x 100mm timber offcuts. For additional
strength, noggins (offcuts of joists) are then fixed at 90 to the joist. Alternatively your
ground level deck can be constructed as detailed in the elevated deck section (Fig. 4).
1800mm
Fig.4
1800mm
m
1800m
m
1800m
Elevated decks
Ledger Board
Richard Burbidge decking materials and accessories are suitable for decks elevated up
to 600mm above ground. For high level decks over 600mm consult a reputable
builder or structural engineer.
Elevated decks can be free standing or have one or more sides attached to the side of
a house, building or wall. The joist frame used to support and fix the deckboards is in
turn supported by posts and beams. Beams are constructed from Richard Burbidge
joists and structural posts. Posts should be spaced at maximum centres of 1800mm.
Fix the posts into the holes using concrete, cap the top of the concrete with a trowel
so that water runs away from the posts. Once the posts have set, attach the beams to
the posts using Richard Burbidge 150mm landscape screws at the desired height. The
joist frame is then fixed to the beams by skew nailing or screwing with joist centres at
maximum 400mm centres. For additional strength as with ground level decks, noggins
should then be fixed at 90 to the joists. For maximum strength and stability fix the
joists to the ledger boards/wall plates and framing joists using joist hangers.
18
00
mm
All spacing between
posts must not exceed
1800mm max.
18
00
mm
Fig.5
Fixing deckboards
There are three ways of fixing deckboards, either by using Richard Burbidge secret fix
deck ties or traditional fixing using screws or nails. Unless your deck design uses
standard lengths of deckboards you will need to stagger the deckboards to cover the
deck area. To prevent movement and give structural stability staggered boards must
be fixed to a double joist (Fig. 5).
It is perfectly natural for deckboards to swell when wet and shrink when dry. Some
variation in the gaps between the deckboards is therefore inevitable and these gaps
will vary in size from season to season.
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137
Fig.6b
Deck ties
You can eliminate installation damage to the face of deckboards, which can happen
when screwing or nailing by using Richard Burbidge deck ties (Fig. 6a).
Deck ties automatically space the deckboards and are completely hidden when fixed.
Please note when using deck ties for fixing deckboards during the planning stage you
must allow for the joist arrangement to be at 90 to the finished deckboard laying
pattern.
The back edge of the first deckboard should be fixed to the joists using Richard
Burbidge 75mm ceramic galvanised screws (Fig. 6b). Countersink and fill the screw
head to prevent possible injury to feet. Once the first row of deckboards has been
fixed, position deck ties in the centre of each joist and to the edge of the deckboard.
Fig.7
Use a hammer to knock the deck ties into the joists and tap the face of the deck ties
so that they are flush with the edge of the deckboard, secure using Richard Burbidge
40mm annular ring nails (Fig. 7).
Place the back edge of the next board against the spikes of the previously fixed deck
ties and using a timber block to protect the board knock onto the spikes with a hammer.
To prevent the board springing along its length off the deck ties this is best done with
two people (Fig. 9). Repeat this procedure until all the deckboards have been fixed.
The final board should be fixed exactly as the first board, through the face of the
deckboard using Richard Burbidge 75mm ceramic galvanised screws (Fig. 8).
Traditional fixing
For traditional fixing use either nails or screws. We recommend Richard Burbidge
75mm ceramic galvanised screws as the preferred traditional fixing option as
damaged individual deckboards are far easier to remove and replace.
Whichever fixing method you choose it is essential to use fixings of at least 75mm in
length. The deckboards should be fixed along their length to every supporting joist
using 2 fixings per face/joist.
Fig.8
Keep the fixings at least 25mm from the ends and edges of the boards and to
minimise the risk of splitting it is recommended that the boards be predrilled to
accommodate the fixings. The boards should be spaced with a 6 to 9mm gap to allow
for drainage and movement.
Unless the size of the deck has been designed and planned to use single length
boards it will be necessary to join boards along their length. It is essential that joined
boards must always meet over a joist. Use additional sections of joist to increase the
area for fixing.
Fig.9
To avoid injury to feet, nail and screw heads should always be fixed below the surface
of the deckboards. Countersink screw heads below surface and use a nail punch for
nails. Check once or twice a season and retighten or re-punch any raised fixings. Use
an endcoat preservative on all surfaces exposed by drilling and cutting.
Steps
The height and position of your deck will influence the style and height of your steps.
Steps can be constructed from a combination of posts, joists and deckboards or
Richard Burbidge cut strings.
The Richard Burbidge ranges include 2 sizes of cut strings for step building both
having individual rises of 190mm. 3 step string/570mm rise and 5 step string/950mm
rise. The number of steps and risers required will be determined by the height of the
deck and the available space in front of it.
Fig.10
Position the strings at right angles to the deck (Fig. 10) at maximum 400mm centres
and fix to the joists using suitable galvanised brackets or joist hangers. At ground
level rest and fix strings to paving slabs or concrete slabs for maximum stability.
Treads are created from deckboards allowing 30mm to overhang each string. Fix the
deckboards to the strings using Richard Burbidge deck ties or 75mm ceramic
galvanised screws. Additional fixings such as galvanised angle brackets can also be
used.
138
139
Outdoor configurations
The following figures illustrate our Traditional, Classic, Contemporary including our
unique FUSION outdoor balustrades and Hardwood ranges.
Traditional
Balustrades for ground level and up to 600mm above ground level in domestic
situations achieve handrail heights of 900mm and are tested for domestic installations
at 0.36kN/m. Balustrades for raised domestic situations (more than 600mm above
ground level) and light commercial settings are tested to the higher loadings of
0.74kN/m with handrail heights of 1100mm.
3
3
2
4
Richard Burbidge Ltd is a member of the TDA Timber Decking Association whose aim
is to ensure that timber decking will not only be suitable for purpose but also meet
British Standards.
Traditional
Traditional
For further information on how to plan your project and create parts lists for your
outdoor balustrades and decking project why not try our free on-line planning service
DECKPLANNER via our website www.richardburbidge.com.
Installation instructions for each range and how to finish and maintain your balustrades
can also be found in the resources section for each range within our website.
1
2
3
4
4
3
3
2
1
2
3
1
2
3
4
140
141
Traditional
Traditional
3
3
3
3
Traditional
Traditional
1
2
3
4
5
6
1
2
3
4
4
3
4
2
2
1
1
2
3
4
142
LD256 & LD256PACK / LD258 & LD258PACK Ground and raised level glass
panels with brackets
LD249/LD257 Ground and raised level stop chamfered newel 82mm with
LD204 Patrice newel cap
LD265 Large Traditional handrail with fillet and LD246 Large Traditional
baserail
LD333 Twist bracket
1
2,3,5
4
6
7
143
Classic
Classic
3
2
Classic
Classic
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
4
5
5
3
3
2
1
2
3
4
5
144
1
2
3
4
5
145
Contemporary
Contemporary
3
4
7
1
5
Contemporary
Contemporary
1
8
1
Softwood
1
LD218 Round rail 2200mm
2
LD227 Round spindle 900mm
3
LD220 Capping rail 2400mm
4
LD223 90mm Round newel
5
LD559 Rail to newel bracket - landing
Hardwood
1
LD561 Round rail 1800mm
2
LD560 Round spindle 900mm
3
LD563 Capping rail 1800mm
4
LD562 90mm Round newel
5
LD559 Rail to newel bracket - landing
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
11
8
10
4
1
5
2
5
6
4
1
Softwood
1
LD218 Round rail 2200mm
2
LD258/LD258PACK Glass panel
3
4
5
146
with brackets
LD220 Capping rail 2400mm
LD223 90mm Round newel
LD559 Rail to newel bracket
Hardwood
1
LD561 Round rail 2200mm
2
LD258/LD258PACK Glass panel
3
4
5
with brackets
LD563 Capping rail 2400mm
LD562 90mm Round newel
LD559 Rail to newel bracket
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
147
Hardwood
Hardwood
6
4
4
3
Hardwood
Hardwood
1
2
3
4
5
6
1
2
3
4
5
6
6
4
3
6
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
148
149
Richard Burbidge softwood decking components are treated with Osmose Naturewood with
an anti-fungal additive which is a modern copper based preservative treatment. After
treatment the components will have a green appearance weathering to natural honey brown
colour before eventually fading to a driftwood grey after long term exposure to the sun.
All Richard Burbidge softwood timber decking materials are manufactured from European
Redwood/British grown Scots Pine, a light coloured knotty softwood used extensively in UK
construction work. It is perfectly natural as the timber weathers for some surface checking
and splitting to occur due to the natural variation in moisture content and the effects of
wetting and drying. These surface defects will have no adverse effect to the decks structure.
Once the installation is complete you may wish to apply a proprietary deck cleaner which
removes the build up of dirt and grease that can occur during construction, deck cleaners
also brighten the timber.
Wash work clothes separately from other household clothing before re-use.
Hardwood balustrades
Richard Burbidge Hardwood external balustrades are manufactured from Sapele, a dark
hardwood similar to a mahogany colour of reddish brown. Although moderately durable
any untreated timber exposed to the natural elements should be protected from the
weather to make them more resistant to picking up moisture. To enhance and protect the
hardwood balustrade apply either a proprietary clear water repellent, semi-transparent
stain or decking oil. Before applying the finish you must make sure your balustrades are dry.
Test by sprinkling drops of water onto the timbers surface. If the wood does not absorb
the water, wait a few days to allow the timber to dry out and retest before application.
Balustrade maintenance
For both softwood and hardwood timber balustrade components always follow the seal,
stain or oil manufacturers recommendations and test on an off-cut or hidden surface. How
often you apply further coats of water seal, stain or oil will depend on the balustrades
usage, and we recommend that all components be recoated at least once a year. Please
refer to the manufacturers recommendations.
Preserved wood should not be used where it may come into direct contact or indirect
contact with drinking water, except for uses involving incidental contact such as fresh
water docks and bridges.
Do not use preserved wood under circumstances where the preservative may become a
component of food, animal feed, or beehives.
Maintenance
Maintenance
Any treated or untreated timber exposed to the natural elements should be protected from
the weather. To enhance the treated softwood decking apply either a proprietary clear
water repellent or semi-transparent stain. Before applying the finish you must make sure
your deck and balustrades are dry. Test by sprinkling drops of water onto the timbers
surface. If the wood does not absorb the water, wait a few days to allow the timber to dry
out and retest before application.
All sawdust and construction debris should be cleaned up and disposed of after
construction.
For non-timber items such as acrylic panels and zinc alloy posts and rails use a soft cloth,
luke warm water and a mild detergent. Do not polish or use abrasive cleaners and scourers
as these can damage and scratch the surface coatings.
Cuprinol Ltd, Wexham Road, Slough, Berkshire, SL2 5DS, Tel 01753 550555,
www.cuprinol.co.uk
Ronseal Ltd, Thorncliffe Park, Chapeltown, Sheffield, S35 2YP, Tel 0114 240 9469,
Deck maintenance
www.ronseal.co.uk
How often you clean the deck will depend on its usage and position in relation to trees and
foliage. Once or twice a season give the deck a brush with a stiff broom which will not only
maintain the appearance but also remove algae and reduce the risk of slipperiness.
The deck can be given an annual clean using a hosepipe and if necessary a proprietary
deck cleaner and brightener. Surface resin can be removed using a sharp broadfaced chisel
and the area then recoated. Use a knife to remove any debris that has built up in the
grooves between deckboards as these gaps allow for drainage and air circulation. Check all
fixings and repunch nail heads and retighten all screwheads if required.
Osmose Naturewood
Richard Burbidge softwood decking components are treated with Osmose Naturewood, a
preservative treatment that is based on copper and an organic co-biocide (Alkaline Copper
Quaternary). Alkaline Copper Quaternary systems have provided proven performance for
almost a decade in locations throughout Europe, North America, Australia and Japan.
Products treated with Osmose Naturewood will initially have a green appearance that
highlights the natural variations of the wood; this will weather to an attractive natural honey
brown colour before finally fading to driftwood grey after long-term exposure to the sun.
Osmose Naturewood treated timber can be painted or stained to match any outdoor
colour scheme. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
150
151
Technical details
Building Regulations
Commercial
153
FUSION Commercial
FUSION Commercial
RHR
Intermediate
newel
connector
Pre-finished
round handrail
RHR
INCB
Pre-finished
round
handrail
Intermediate
newel
connector
BCB
Bottom
connector
Staircase baluster
& bracket
NBCB
CNP950WOF
Newel
SBR
CSB
BCB
CSB
Staircase baluster
& bracket
Bottom
connector
NBCB
Newel base
connector
CNP950WOF
Newel
SBR
Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
NBCB
NBCB
510mm
Newel base
915mm
Newel base
INCB
RHR
Intermediate
newel
connector
FUSION Commercial
Pre-finished
round handrail
INCB
Pre-finished
round
handrail
Intermediate
newel
connector
FUSION Commercial
NBCB
BCB
Newel base
connector
CSB
Bottom
connector
Staircase baluster
& bracket
Suspended
baserail connector
CNP950WOF
Newel
CSB
BCB
SBCB
Staircase baluster
& bracket
Bottom
connector
SBR
CNP950WOF
Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
Newel
SBR
Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
NBCB
Newel base connector
NBCB
1375mm
Base connector
Newel base
510mm
Newel base
RHR
INCB
Pre-finished
round handrail
Intermediate
newel
connector
RHR
Bottom connector
Pre-finished
round
handrail
CNP950WOF
Newel
CSB
TCB
Staircase baluster
& bracket
Top connector
CSB
BCB
Staircase baluster
& bracket
Bottom
connector
NBCB
CNP950WOF
Newel
915mm
Newel base
INCB
Intermediate
newel
connector
NBCB
Newel base connector
SBR
Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
NBCB
Newel base connector
915mm
Newel base
154
SBR
Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
155
FUSION Commercial
FUSION Commercial
BCB
RHR
Bottom
connector
ALB
INCB
Pre-finished Round
Handrail
Adjustable
landing
connector
Intermediate newel
connector
CTB
LCB
CSB
CNP950WOF
Staircase baluster
& bracket
Newel
915mm
TCB
Newel base
Top connector
Transition
connector
Landing
connector
RHR
TCB
Top
connector
Pre-finished round
handrail
CNP950WOF
SBR
Pre-finished newel
Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
NBCB
INCB
Intermediate
newel
connector
915mm
CSB
Newel base
Staircase baluster
& bracket
NBCB
SBCB
Newel base
connector
Suspended
baserail
connector
SBCB
SBR Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
Suspended
baserail
connector
BCB
Bottom
connector
FUSION Commercial
CNP950WOF
Newel
CSB
NBCB
Staircase baluster
& bracket
Newel base
connector
SBR
2000mm
Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
Newel base
ICB
Intermediate
connector
RHR
Pre-finished round
handrail
INCB
Intermediate
newel
connector
CTB
Adjustable
landing
connector
Transition connector
LCB
Landing
connector
TCB
Top connector
INCB
Intermediate
newel
connector
RHR
Pre-finished round
handrail
SBR
CNP950WOF
Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
Pre-finished newel
CSB
915mm
Staircase
baluster &
bracket
Newel base
FUSION Commercial
NBCB
Newel base
connector
NBCB
SBCB
Newel base
connector
Suspended
baserail
connector
CTB
INCB
Transition connector
Landing
connector
Intermediate
newel connector
ECB
RHR
End cap
NTB
SBR Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
Newel tie
TCB
Top connector
NBCB
Newel base
connector
915mm
Newel base
RHR
Bottom
connector
Pre-finished round
handrail
ECB
SBR
End cap
INCB
NTB
Intermediate
newel connector
TCB
CNP950WOF
Prefinished newel
CSB
Staircase baluster
& bracket
NBCB
Newel base
connector
Newel tie
Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
CSB
Top connector
Staircase baluster
& bracket
CNP950WOF
INCB
Pre-finished
newel
Intermediate
newel connector
NBCB
Newel base
connector
915mm
Newel base
NBCB
Newel base
connector
156
157
FUSION Commercial
FUSION Commercial
Fig. 16 Top landings - FUSION Commercial top
landing with 90 turn closed string
LCB
Landing
connector
RHR
Pre-finished round
handrail
Suspended baserail
connector
Landing connector
CLB
TCB
Top connector
Landing baluster
& bracket
CNP950WOF
SBR
Pre-finished newel
NBCB
Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
NBCB
Newel base
connector
INCB
Intermediate
newel connector
NBCB
Newel base
connector
RHR
Pre-finished
round
handrail
CLB
700mm
Intermediate
newel
connector
Newel base
Staircase baluster
& bracket
Newel base
Landing
baluster &
bracket
INCB
SBCB
Suspended baserail
connector
Pre-finished
ungrooved
baserail
NBCB
Newel base connector
SBR
CSB
700mm
Top
connector
Pre-finished newel
SBCB
LCB
TCB
CNP950WOF
CSB
Staircase baluster
& bracket
UHTB
Universal horizontal turn
LCB
Landing
connector
RHR
TCB
Top
connector
NBCB
LCB
Newel base
connector
Landing
connector
NBCB
Newel base
connector
CLB
TCB
Landing
baluster &
bracket
Top connector
CNP950WOF
Pre-finished newel
SBR
NBCB
Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
Newel base
connector
SBCB
700mm
Suspended baserail
connector
Newel base
INCB
CSB
Intermediate
newel
connector
Staircase baluster
& bracket
RHR
CLB
Pre-finished
round
handrail
Landing baluster
& bracket
700mm
SBR
INCB
Newel base
Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
Intermediate
newel
connector
Pre-finished newel
Landing connector
Pre-finished round
handrail
CLB
WCB
Landing baluster
& bracket
Wall connector
CLB
INCB
TCB
SBR
CNP950WOF
Newel base
connector
Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
Pre-finished
newel
ICB
NBCB
1375mm
Newel base
158
Suspended baserail
connector
Top
connector
Intermediate
connector
Intermediate newel
connector
NBCB
UHTB
RHR
SBCB
Pre-finished newel
LCB
RHR
CNP950WOF
Suspended baserail
connector
Landing
connector
SBCB
CNP950WOF CSB
UHTB
LCB
Newel base
connector
CSB
Staircase baluster
& bracket
FUSION Commercial
FUSION Commercial
Pre-finished
round handrail
NBCB
Newel base
connector
915mm
Newel base
Landing
baluster &
bracket
SBCB
Suspended baserail
connector
NBCB
Newel base connector
SBR
Pre-finished
ungrooved baserail
CSB
Staircase baluster
& bracket
159
FUSION Commercial
WCB
Pre-finished round
handrail
Wall connector
The TDA (Timber Decking Association) technical bulletin on the design and construction of
deck parapets details two types of deck, low level and high level. A low level deck is any
deck up to 600mm above ground level with high level referring to all other decks higher
than 600mm.
SBR
Pre-finished
ungrooved
baserail
CLB
LCB
Landing
baluster &
bracket
Landing connector
CNP950WOF
Pre-finished
newel
NBCB
SBCB
Newel base
connector
Suspended baserail
connector
Commercial decks in public areas used to move people through and not susceptible to
overcrowding including stairs/steps, landings, external balconies and ramps should have
the balustrade set at a minimum height of 900mm on stairs/steps and 1100mm on
landings/horizontal guarding. The balustrade should resist a minimum horizontal
uniformly distributed line load of 0.74kN/m, a uniformly distributed load applied to the
infill of 1.0kN/m and a point load applied to part of the infill of 0.5kN.
Additionally balustrades in commerical areas with tables or fixed seating where people
may congregate and are susceptible to overcrowding should have the balustrade set at
900mm on stairs and 1100mm for landings and horizontal guarding. Balustrades for
these environments should resist a minimum horizontal uniformly distributed line load of
1.5kN/m, a uniformly distributed load applied to the infill of 1.5kN/m2 and a point load
applied to part of the infill of 1.5kN.
700mm
Newel base
The balustrade should be designed so that it is not easily climbable and not allow the
passage of a 100mm sphere.
ILCB
Intermediate
landing
connector
CNP950WOF
Pre-finished newel
BS 6399 Part 1 1996: Loadings for buildings. Code of practice for dead and imposed
loads.
Gives recommended dead and imposed loads for use in designing new buildings and
structures, alterations to existing buildings and the change of use to an existing
construction. Section 10 and Table 4 covers parapets, barriers and balustrades and the
minimum horizontal imposed loads.
Building Regulations
FUSION Commercial
Pre-finished
round
handrail
British Standards
Pre-finished
ungrooved
baserail
Richard Burbidge balustrades are certified by BM TRADA, certification number 001 and
meet the requirements of and are registered within the BM TRADA certification scheme for
timber balustrades.
CLB
Landing
baluster &
bracket
NBCB
Newel base
connector
SBCB
700mm
Suspended baserail
connector
Newel base
CNP950WOF
ALB
Pre-finished newel
Adjustable landing
connector
BS 5268-2 Structural use of timber. Code of practice for permissible stress design,
materials and workmanship.
This British Standard gives recommendations for stress grades applicable to timber when
used as members, as part of a construction and as part of a structure including other
components. Detailing for the design of nailed, screwed, bolted, dowelled, connected and
glued joints are are also covered. This document additionally gives recommendations for
test methods to assess structural assemblies with guidance on workmanship, treatments,
inspection and maintenance.
BS EN 350-1 Durability of wood and wood based products.
Covers wood classification systems, hazards, grading, sampling, durability and physical
properties. Used in conjunction with BS EN 350-2 which details guidance on the natural
durability and treatability of selected wood species of importance in Europe.
CLB
Landing
baluster &
bracket
Pre-finished
ungrooved
baserail
160
NBCB
700mm
SBCB
Newel base
connector
Newel base
Suspended baserail
connector
161
FUSION Commercial
Richard Burbidge external balustrade systems in all timber types have been independently
tested by both TRADA and FIRA for conformity with UK Building Regulations.
All balustrade systems conform with the requirements for domestic use as detailed in Table
4 of BS 6399 : Part 1 : 1996 Loadings for buildings.
11
8
Raised domestic and light commercial settings - Some of our systems have been tested
and conform to the increased loading requirements for commercial applications which are
defined as areas not susceptible to overcrowding in office, leisure and institutional
buildings such as hotels, doctors and dental surgeries and stairs in multi occupancy
buildings such as apartments. In these applications the increased requirements detail that a
balustrade should resist a minimum horizontal uniformly distributed line load of 0.74kN/m,
a uniformly distributed load applied to the infill of 1.0kN/m2 and a point load applied to
part of the infill of 0.5kN.
Building Regulations
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
10
5
6
FUSION Commercial
Domestic settings - All areas within or serving exclusively one dwelling including stairs and
landings, the balustrades should resist a minimum horizontal uniformly distributed line load
of 0.36kN/m, a uniformily distributed load applied to the infill of 0.5kN/m2 and a point load
applied to part of the infill of 0.25kN. For decks above 600mm above ground balustrades
need to conform to the same requirements as the heavier loadings detailed in the
commercial settings section.
162
163
FUSION Commercial
Finishing advice
Our Juliette balconies are available in a range of sizes and style offerings. You can choose
from the clean lines of the single handrail option illustrated in Fig. 1 or opt for the choice of
additional handrails in either metal or timber as illustrated in Fig. 2
Richard Burbidge Juliette balconies are suitable for openings from 600mm to 2010mm and
provide a safe and attractive balustrade solution.
Fig. 1
Brush applied varnish
1. Sand the surface with a fine grade sandpaper. Traces of dust and grease can be
removed using a cloth dampened with white spirit.
2. First coat - mix together one part white spirit, three parts polyurethane clear varnish and
if a colour is required one part spirit based wood stain/dye.
3. Allow at least eight hours to dry. Lightly rub down using a fine grade wire wool and apply
a coat of clear varnish only.
LD655
LD656
Return to wall
brackets x 4
4. Allow at least eight hours to dry and apply two further coats of clear varnish.
Spray applied varnish
LD662
LD654
1. Rub down with 240 grit sandpaper and apply one coat of sanding/sealer.
Aluminium rail
OS glass panel
with 4 x panel
brackets
3. Apply two coats of pre-cat lacquer (if a coloured finish is required use tinted pre-cat
lacquer).
Finishing advice
FUSION Commercial
Note - Remember, a clear varnish will change the colour of wood which should be
considered before deciding on a coloured finish. Practice on off-cuts before applying to
product.
The following details are examples of some of the more popular ways of finishing. Of
course, before applying your chosen finish (stain, paint or varnish) your timber product
should be properly prepared. Pin/nail holes should be filled with a proprietary filler and the
product sanded to remove blemishes that can occur during installation.
LD659
Aluminium rail
support brackets
Varnish
Fig. 2
LD576
Rail to rail brackets
LD652/LD661/
LD586/LD587
Timber or
aluminium top rail
LD655
Available in clear matt, satin and gloss finishes and also tinted/coloured, varnish gives a
tough, durable and hardwearing finish which requires minimal maintenance and is heat and
water resistant. Coloured varnishes have the advantage of being suitable for application on
previously varnished surfaces. When applying coloured varnishes you should note that as
they do not penetrate the wood like a true wood stain/dye it is a good idea to finish with a
couple of coats of clear varnish which will prevent colour loss due to wear and tear.
As well as polyurethane varnishes there are a number of acrylic/water-based varnishes which
are solvent free, have a low odour and are extremely quick drying. They also have the
advantage of easy brush maintenance and require only a quick rinse with water after use.
Rail end
caps x 6
LD656
Return to wall
brackets x 4
LD654
Aluminium rail
LD657
Glass panel with
4 x panel
brackets
Oils
Oils can be used to seal timber. They do however, tend to be used on hardwoods only as
softwoods discolour and become dirty very quickly. There are various types available which
are easy to apply, usually by rag or brush. Teak oil is quick drying whilst danish oil has the
advantage of being able to accept a varnish for added protection. Linseed oil is slow
drying and tends to be soft.
Wood stains/dyes
LD659
Aluminium rail
support brackets
These will penetrate the wood and are used to enhance the colour and to some extent
unify and neutralise the natural colour variations that occur in timbers. They tend to dry
quickly and are usually applied with a cloth along the grain. Before it is dry, excess
stain/dye is wiped off with a lint-free cloth. Wood stains/dyes do not seal the timber and
require a varnish or polish application to finish.
Protective wood stains
All in one finish enhances the colour of wood and is normally brush applied. Unlike wood
stains/dyes it also seals the timber and is quick drying with further coats being applied after
just two hours.
164
165
Finishing advice
French polish
This gives a very good gloss finish. It is applied by building up in layers and is made from a
mixture of shellac and alcohol, with a fair degree of skill required to achieve a good finish.
French polish does not provide any real protection, with the surface not resistant to
scratches, heat, water or alcohol and is normally applied to surfaces that receive little wear
and tear. A modern alternative two part treatment is plastic coating, which does provide
resistance to heat, liquids and scratches.
Hardwood balustrades
Liming
This is best applied to coarse grained woods such as oak. A traditional mixture for liming
oak can be achieved by mixing unslaked lime with water. Once applied and semi-dry any
surplus is wiped off. When dry this is rubbed down with glasspaper and a coat of french
polish is added, with a final coat of white polish to finish. Alternatively, an easier method is
to mix white matt emulsion with water to the same consistency as milk and brush into the
grain, wiping off before setting. To finish and seal two coats of satin varnish are applied,
giving an eggshell shine. Liming wax is also available, which is quick and easy to apply.
Paint
Balustrade maintenance
For both softwood and hardwood timber balustrade components always follow the seal,
stain or oil manufacturers recommendations and test on an off-cut or hidden surface. How
often you apply further coats of water seal, stain or oil will depend on the balustrades
usage, and we recommend that all components be recoated at least once a year. Please
refer to the manufacturers recommendations.
For non-timber items such as glass panels and zinc alloy posts and rails use a soft cloth,
luke warm water and a mild detergent. Do not polish or use abrasive cleaners and scourers
as these can damage and scratch the surface coatings.
Maintenance
Finishing advice
Use a knotting solution on live knots and resinous areas. This prevents resin
bleeding/seeping through onto the finished surface. New bare timber should have a coat
of primer, followed by one or two coats of undercoat. Finish with a topcoat of gloss. There
are numerous painting finishes and techniques, for example, crackle, glaze, marble or
mottled effects.
Richard Burbidge Hardwood external balustrades are manufactured from Sapele, a dark
hardwood similar to a mahogany colour of reddish brown. Although moderately durable
any untreated timber exposed to the natural elements should be protected from the
weather to make then more resistant to picking up moisture. To enhance and protect the
hardwood balustrade apply either a proprietary clear water repellent, semi-transparent
stain or decking oil. Before applying the finish you must make sure your balustrades are dry.
Test by sprinkling drops of water onto the timbers surface. If the wood does not absorb the
water, wait a few days to allow the timber to dry out and retest before application.
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