Glass Balustrades Refurbishment at The Leys

Walton-On-Thames

Contractor: Wallakers

Balconette was selected from a shortlist of five companies to complete a major balustrading refurbishment project at The Leys, an apartment complex between Hersham and Esher in Surrey.

The original timber-slatted balconies on the 1960s building were replaced with Balconette’s low-maintenance clear glass balustrades as part of an extensive programme of external works. The project was completed in summer 2014.

Property management company Wallakers, managing agents for The Leys, chose Balconette based on its competitive tender, references and recommendations. It was the first time they had worked with Balconette and the company's ability to deliver on time and to budget impressed them.

New Glass Balconies increase farmland views!

Wallakers Principal Robert Heald cited their 'product, ease of working with the team and ability to perform' as key reasons for choosing the company.The Orbit Balustrade System with Royal Chrome anodised handrail finish was installed on 18 upper-floor apartments - 122 metres in total. The 24-apartment complex is set in communal gardens that extend down to the River Mole at Walton-on-Thames.

Robert, a Chartered Surveyor, commented: "What I particularly like about the circular handrail system is its simplicity and how it suits the external appearance of the apartments, which have lovely views to the river and farmland beyond.

He added: "It has given the whole building a lift and made a big difference. I think the residents are very happy with their new balconies."

Balconette Managing Director Effi Wolff commented: "We particularly enjoy being involved with balcony refurbishment projects; these projects are very different from the new build balconies.

"There are challenges, both in removal of the old balustrades and incorporating details of the new into a variety of different build types dating back over the decades.

"But above all, we love the transformative effect that refurbishing balconies has on the building. One could almost call it 'construction plastic surgery' - giving old balconies and buildings a facelift while making them safer and compliant with current regulations," he added.