Outdoor glass balusters - New challenges

William J. Nugent and Mark K. Schmidt
Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc.

In an effort to minimize sightline obstructions, the use of glass balusters to support handrails and meet other guard requirements in outdoor stadium structures has become increasingly common. Considerations of glass products, structural design approach and support detailing that have been used successfully for years in indoor glass baluster systems might be different in outdoor applications where maintenance and temperature cycling create a much more demanding environment.

Based on the authors’ investigation of several extensive and costly failures of glass balusters in outdoor stadiums, they have developed an understanding of the problems that plague these systems. This paper documents the results of the outdoor glass baluster investigations, including the materials and structural testing that was performed to gain an understanding of the observed failures. Specific recommendations regarding material selection, structural design, and detailing of glass balusters for successful performance in outdoor stadiums are also provided.

Full Text Article [274 KB]

The Authors

	William Nugent Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. Mr. Nugent joined WJE in 1976 and has since completed over 400 investigation, testing, and repair design projects. Mr. Nugent’s experience includes seismic damage assessment and retrofit design, inves... Read more
	Mr. Mark Schmidt Structures Unit Manager Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. Read more