ᐅ Floor-to-ceiling windows on the upper floor – possibly also serving as access to a balcony

Created on: 18 Apr 2013 17:53
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Philiboy83
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Philiboy83
18 Apr 2013 17:53
Hello

We want to install two floor-to-ceiling windows facing west on the upper floor (typical single-family house) because there is an amazing view of the evening sun including the sunset (thanks to the neighbor’s bungalows). We would regret installing just normal two-leaf casement windows measuring 1.34 x 1.20 m (4.4 x 3.9 ft) there. In addition, we plan to have a small balcony or two built later by a metalworker (fortunately, we know someone quite well) or a large one combining both windows.

Therefore, the option with a transom in the middle and laminated safety glass (VSG) at the bottom and a normal two-leaf window above is out of the question.

But what makes sense, and what is allowed? We would like to keep the casement design to match the rest of the house. Is that even feasible for a 2.0 m (6.6 ft) high floor-to-ceiling window? Alternatively, a single-leaf window of 1.0 x 2.0 m (3.3 x 6.6 ft) with a French balcony or fall protection grill in front could work for now.

But if a balcony is built later in front of it, is a "normal" floor-to-ceiling window then acceptable, or are there regulations requiring it to be a balcony or patio door, for example, due to mechanical stresses from stepping in and out and standing on the frame?

I would appreciate any tips or information. Does laminated safety glass (VSG) have to be installed in both cases, or is a fall protection system sufficient?