The new British Standard for design of balconies and terraces, BS8579, was published in August 2020. With the construction industry using so many different interpretations of national standards it was felt there needed to be guidance to clear up some differences in approach. The aim of the standard is to have a unified set of ideas relating specifically to the design of balconies and terraces.
It is important to remember though the guidance is not mandatory, it goes a long was to clear up many anomalies in the industry. The new standard may be used throughout Britain although there may remain some differences with English, Northern Irish, Scottish and Welsh regulations.
Key issues cleared up
Written into the standard is a clear definition between balconies and terraces. It is important to distinguish between the two as regulations refer to them separately. This is especially helpful when it comes to insurance and warranties, which are different for balconies and terraces.
A distinction has also been made between open and enclosed balconies. This has been previously stated by BS9991 (relating to fire safety in residential buildings). If the facing enclosure is over 50% it becomes an enclosed balcony. Enclosed balconies are an internal room, for the purposes of fire, adding
to the distance that any person needs to escape in the event of a fire.
Standards to consider when designing
Fire
Balconies designed to be fitted on top of each other triggers the need for fireseparating floors and walls. The guidance from the standard about the proximity of balconies, fire resistance and reactions to fires has been clearly determined.
The standard recommends non-combustible material on balconies. This point will be very important in terms of setting a precedent on the issue of laminated glass for balustrades, which whilst combustible, could be considered unlikely to contribute significantly to a balcony fire. There has been considerable debate on safety and whether laminate glass should be used.
Drainage
Concern over water and dripping from balconies has long been an issue. Drainpipes can be unsightly and prone to blockage, but without them, staining can become a concern.
The document gives clear guidance as to how to overcome these concerns using properly designed edge drainage. The advantage of soffits to reduce fire risk, prevent spillages onto balconies or public areas below etc is also emphasized.
Inclusive design
The standard also gives guidance on inclusive design where all occupants and guests have ease of access across a door threshold and have the ability to turn and exit the balcony.
“The aim of the standard is to have a unified set of ideas relating … to the design of balconies and terraces.”
Other points to consider
The psychological effects of balconies cannot be underestimated. Designing a rigid balcony with very little bounce feels safer to occupants. The standard gives guidance on limitations on stiffness.
Balustrade heights have also been the subject of a lot of discussion. On high-rise buildings the effect of the wind is significant, so the need for shelter and containment has been laid out. Mitigation of noise is also given appropriate coverage.
It is interesting to see how much the new standard is used, as it sets responsible criteria for industry to adopt if they wish.
“The new standard’s aim is to answer any anomalies and differences in approach within the construction industry.”