How to Measure Guide

📏 Guide: How to Measure for Balustrades (South Africa)

Correct measuring ensures your balustrade installation is safe, compliant, and visually perfect. This guide will help you take accurate measurements while keeping in line with South African National Standards (SANS) building regulations.

1. Understand the SANS Requirements

Balustrades in South Africa must comply with SANS 10400 – Part D, Part N, and Part M (regulating safety, access, and glazing). The key rules include:

• Minimum Heights:
• Balustrades on balconies, verandas, or staircases must be at least 1 000 mm high (1 meter) from the finished floor level.
• For internal staircases, the handrail height must be between 850 mm – 1 000 mm above the pitch line (the slope of the stairs).
• Gaps and Openings:
• No gap in a balustrade (horizontal or vertical) may allow a sphere of 100 mm diameter to pass through (child safety standard).
• Loads & Strength:
• Balustrades must resist imposed loads according to SANS 10160.
• For residential applications: 0.5 kN/m (horizontal load).
• For public/commercial applications: 1.0 – 3.0 kN/m depending on use.

2. Tools You’ll Need

• Measuring tape (at least 5m)
• Spirit level or laser level
• Notepad or digital device for recording
• Chalk line (for straight runs)

3. How to Measure

a) Straight Runs (Balconies, Landings, Decks)

1. Measure the total length where the balustrade will be installed.
2. Note any breaks (doors, walls, or columns).
3. Record floor type (concrete, tile, wood, or steel) as it affects fixing methods.

b) Staircases

1. Measure the total rise (vertical height) and total run (horizontal length) of the staircase.
2. Measure the pitch line (diagonal line running along the nosing of each tread).
3. Record the length of each flight (straight section) and the number of treads.
4. Note landings where balustrades must continue or end.

c) Posts and Spacing

• Posts are typically spaced no more than 1.5 – 2.0 meters apart depending on the system.
• Mark potential post positions during measuring to confirm symmetry.

d) Heights

• For flat areas: measure 1 000 mm vertically from the finished floor level.
• For stairs: measure from the pitch line, ensuring the handrail is 850–1 000 mm above.

4. Recording Measurements

• Draw a simple floor plan and elevation sketch.
• Mark all lengths, angles, and heights clearly.
• Indicate start and end points for each balustrade run.
• Label where gates, glass panels, or corners are required.

5. Site Conditions to Note

• Slopes or uneven flooring
• Finishes (tiles, plaster, concrete)
• Indoor vs outdoor environment (affects material choice and finish)
• Any obstructions (pipes, beams, electrical fittings)

6. Compliance & Safety Reminder

Balustrades are not just decorative — they are safety-critical structures. All installations must comply with SANS 10400 (Part D, M, and N) and SANS 10160 for load resistance. Always ensure:

• Correct heights
• Safe spacing
• Structurally sound fixing

✅ Summary

1. Measure lengths, heights, and angles carefully.
2. Record post positions and spacing.
3. Follow SANS rules: 1 000 mm height, <100 mm gaps, correct load resistance.
4. Provide a clear drawing with notes for accurate quoting and installation.

 

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