Measuring a Balcony for Security Bars: Step-by-Step Guide

t264-1

To measure a balcony for security bars, record the width and height of each opening at several points, check for obstacles such as beams, pipes and sills, and note the wall material. Send these measurements with photos so the factory can prepare a drawing and a written specification before production begins.

Why accurate balcony measurements matter

Security bars are made to measure, so the quality of the final result depends heavily on the dimensions you provide. A bar that is even a few centimeters off can look uneven, fail to seat properly in its anchors, or leave a gap that defeats the purpose of the protection.

Measuring carefully before the order saves time for everyone. It reduces the number of visits needed, prevents rework in the workshop, and makes the installation day smoother. Taking a few extra minutes now is worth it.

Tools you need before you start

You do not need professional equipment, but a few simple tools will make the job reliable:

A steel tape measure, preferably 5 meters or longer
A spirit level or a long straight edge
A notebook or a phone for recording figures
A helper to hold the tape at the far end
A camera or phone for clear photos

Work on a dry day and measure at the time you plan to install the bars, so the surfaces are in their final state.

Step-by-step: measuring each opening

Measure every opening you want protected, one at a time. Measure the width at the top, middle and bottom, because walls are rarely perfectly straight. Use the smallest figure for planning.

Measure the height from the sill or floor to the underside of the lintel
Record the depth of any recess or reveal
Mark the position of any door or window frame that will sit inside the opening
Label each opening with a number and note its location on a simple sketch

Check the diagonals of rectangular openings. Equal diagonals mean the opening is square, which helps the drawing.

Noting obstacles, wall type and fixing points

Look closely at what surrounds each opening. Air conditioning pipes, electrical boxes, water lines, roller shutter housings and intercom wiring all affect where bars can be fixed. Mark them on your sketch so the design can avoid them.

Also note the wall material, such as concrete, block or stone cladding. The material determines the type of anchor used. Tell the factory if the surface is tiled or finished in a way that needs special attention. Confirm details of load and fixing with the engineer where needed.

From measurement to drawing and production

Once measurements and photos are received, the factory prepares a drawing and a written specification showing the bar pattern, dimensions, material and finish. You review it and give approval before any production starts. This step protects you from surprises.

The bars are then made in the factory at 37 Rival Street, Tel Aviv. Iron or aluminum profiles are cut, welded and assembled to your measurements. Finishing options such as hot-dip galvanizing or powder coating are applied to suit the environment.

Installation and final checks

On installation day, the team fixes the bars to the wall or frame using the anchors chosen for your surface. Each bar is checked for level and alignment, and the fixings are tested to make sure they are secure.

Keep the balcony clear so the team can work safely
Check that the bars open and close as intended if they include a door panel
Ask for a walk-through of the finished work before the crew leaves

Good communication during installation helps resolve small adjustments on the spot.

Tips for a smooth order

Gather all your measurements, sketches and photos in one place before contacting the factory. Include the number of openings, the desired finish and any design preference you have, such as a simple vertical pattern or a more decorative look.

If you are working with an architect, interior designer or building committee, share the same measurements with everyone so the final drawing matches the building plan. Clear information from the start leads to a better result.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to measure every balcony opening separately?

Yes, each opening should be measured on its own because widths and heights often differ slightly. Label each one so the drawing matches the correct location.

Which measurement should I use for the width?

Measure at the top, middle and bottom and use the smallest figure for planning. This ensures the bar fits even where the wall is slightly narrower.

Can I send photos instead of a site visit?

Photos help a lot with the initial inquiry, but a site measurement is usually needed to confirm the exact dimensions before production. The factory will explain what is required.

What if there is an air conditioner or pipe in the way?

Mark it on your sketch and photograph it. The design can work around these obstacles, and the installer will confirm the best fixing positions on site.

Common mistakes to avoid

Measuring only once and at one height, and forgetting to note pipes, sills or recesses that affect the fit. Ordering before the drawing is approved can also lead to costly changes.

Our recommendation

Measure the smallest width of each opening at three heights, photograph every corner, and mark all obstacles on a simple sketch before contacting the factory. This preparation makes the drawing faster and the installation more precise.

Summary

Accurate measurements, clear photos and a marked sketch are the foundation of well-fitting balcony security bars. Follow the steps and the process from drawing to installation will run smoothly.

השאירו פרטים ונחזור אליכם