Measuring Stair Glass Balustrade Height and Spacing Correctly

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To measure a staircase for glass balustrades, take the height from the tread nosing to the top of the handrail line at several points, measure the stair pitch, and record the exact spacing of posts or fixing points along the run. Check landings, wall types and the handrail position separately, because each changes the glass panel size and the fixing method.

Why accurate measurement matters for glass railings

Glass balustrades are made to measure, so every panel must match your staircase exactly. A small error in height or spacing can mean a panel that does not fit, a fixing point that lands in the wrong place, or a railing that looks uneven. Careful measurement at the start saves time and prevents rework.

Measure the staircase in its finished state if possible. If floor tiles, screed or cladding are still to be added, note the expected final level, because the railing height is counted from the finished surface.

Measuring the railing height

Railing height is measured vertically from the nosing of each step to the underside of the handrail line you intend to use. Measure at the front edge of several steps, not only the first one, since older stairs are often not perfectly level.

Measure from the nosing, not from the back of the tread.
Take readings at the bottom, middle and top of the run.
Record the lowest and highest values.

Exact code-compliant heights are confirmed with your engineer, who checks the relevant Israeli railing standard (SI 1142) for your specific situation.

Measuring stair pitch and the slope line

The pitch is the angle of the stair run. Measure the horizontal length of the staircase and the total vertical rise, then mark the sloped line along the nosings. The glass panels follow this line, and the handrail or top edge is kept parallel to it.

A simple check: stretch a straight string or laser line along the nosings and confirm it is consistent. Irregular steps will show up clearly, and you should note any step that sits out of line before ordering glass.

Spacing of posts, clamps and fixing points

Spacing depends on the glass system you choose. Some designs use posts or point fixings, others use a continuous channel or a base shoe fixed to the step. Measure the length of each run and mark where each post or clamp would sit, keeping spacing even along the run.

Mark the first and last fixing point at the ends of each run.
Divide the remaining length evenly between them.
Check that no fixing lands on a step joint or a weak area.

Confirm exact spacing values with us during the drawing stage.

Landings, wall types and handrail position

Landings and changes of direction need their own measurements, including the corners and the height of the balustrade where it turns. Note the wall material too: concrete, block, tile or plasterboard each needs a different fixing approach, and this affects where you can drill.

If you plan a wooden or metal handrail on top of the glass, measure its profile and mounting height now. The handrail must sit at the correct level and line up with the glass top edge.

From measurement to production and installation

Once measurements are recorded, send us photos, sketches and the figures. We visit the site if needed, confirm the details, prepare a drawing and a written specification, and wait for your approval before production. Glass panels, posts and metal parts are then produced at our workshop at 37 Rival Street, Tel Aviv, and finished to suit the project.

On installation day, the fixings are set first, then the glass is fitted and checked for level and alignment. Keep access clear and ensure the stair is safe to work on.

Frequently asked questions

Do I measure the height from the step or the floor?

Measure from the nosing of each step, the front edge where people put their feet, up to the handrail line. Measuring from the floor would give the wrong figure on a sloped run.

Should I measure one step or the whole staircase?

Measure several steps and the full run, since many stairs are not perfectly even. Recording the lowest and highest readings helps you plan accurately.

Can I measure everything myself?

Yes, a careful DIY renovator can take the main dimensions. We recommend a site visit before final production so the figures are checked on location.

What if my floor tiles will be added later?

Include the expected finished level in your measurements, because the railing height is counted from the final surface. Tell us about any planned changes so we can plan for them.

Common mistakes to avoid

The most common error is measuring from the wrong reference point, such as the floor or the back of the tread instead of the nosing. Skipping the landings and wall type checks can also lead to panels that do not fit or fixings that cannot be installed safely.

Our recommendation

Take each measurement at least three times and write them down with a simple sketch, then send these with photos before ordering. Confirm any height or spacing value with your engineer rather than relying on a single reading.

Summary

Correct measurement of height, pitch, spacing, landings and wall type gives you a glass balustrade that fits and looks right. Good preparation makes production and installation smooth.

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