JULIET BALCONY FIXINGS

Choosing the correct fixing to secure your Juliet balcony to the building is just as important as choosing the correct balcony. It is an axiom that a chain is as strong as its weakest link and therefore you must make sure that the fixings and the walls are not that weak link.

Wall types and brick types

There are so many possibilities of wall types, brick types and other factors that one must know exactly what one is proposing to fix to before deciding on the fixings. In all cases it is assumed that the building and wall is designed to support the imposed and static loads.

Types of loads on fixings

Fixings, also known as anchoring systems, have two basic loads they are usually tested to or measured by. “Pull out load” and “Shearing load”; To explain in simplicity Pull out load is the strength the fixing or anchor can resist when trying to pull it out in the opposite direct that it went into the wall and shear load is the strength of the fixing can resist perpendicular (90 degrees) to the direction it went into the wall.

How to choose you fixings in three easy steps

1) Find the specification loading required of the fixings.

2) Know which type of material you are fixing into.

3) Based on the two points above choose a fixing and a fixing method.

An expanded explanation is below

1) You must know the required loads the fixings need to meet. This is shown on the calculations we supply. Start by finding the relevant structural calculation for your chosen Juliet Balcony Systems. This is made up of type of system and width of handrail chosen - to make it simple here are the options:

On each calculation on the last (summary) page the applicable fixings are specified.

2) Find out EXACTLY what you are fixing into. “Brick” is not enough information, nor is “Concrete” etc. You need to know the type of brick or concrete, density etc. This is important in order to determine the ability of the material and type of fixing method.

3) Using the information in the two points above you will now be able to choose the correct fixing. This information will allow you to find a fixing that suits the material you are fixing into. If you are inexperienced with types and methods of anchoring or fixing into walls take the information from the first two points and go down to your local builders merchant, based on this information they will be able to supply you with a fixing that meets the loads and is suitable for your wall type.

Choosing the correct fixing to secure your Juliet balcony to the building is not rocket science but requires knowing the construction of the walls. If ever in doubt always consult a qualified structural engineer.