Small renovations or refreshing your outdoor areas at home can often be achieved with “off-the-shelf” products, but care must be taken to ensure these products comply with building legislation and are safe to use. Our building inspectors have noticed an increase in the number of off-the-shelf products that are not accompanied with appropriate documents that suitably demonstrate compliance with the intended use of the product.
For example, glass balustrades need to be able to withstand the impact of someone falling against them or leaning on them, especially if they're on the edge of a fall more than 1 metre high. As such, they perform a structural role. Balustrades designed for pools are not necessarily as strong as those designed for balconies greater than 1 m high, and there are numerous tragic instances (and ensuing legal actions) of people sustaining debilitating and lasting injuries falling through faulty balustrades from relatively small heights.
We strongly recommend that when you're buying off-the-shelf products, make sure you ask for accompanying, independent documentation that demonstrates their safety and that they are suitable for their use and location in your home.