Have you ever wondered why the most modern homes are installing translucent fences? Historically, when we thought of an opulent home, what always came to mind was a sturdy iron fence with visible locks. However, today’s architecture is much more innovative, and it seems that another type of material is being installed. The new translucent fences provide security and privacy, and also have an unmistakably minimalist design. They are made of laminated safety glass, which is not easily damaged.
Traditional bars
For decades—or centuries!—we have always thought of bars as the default option. However, although they still look secure, they now seem a little archaic. The visual and psychological effect of Romero bars is undeniable: they give a claustrophobic feeling of confinement that makes the home look heavy and a little outdated. Not to mention that they have a negative impact on the brightness of the space; apart from blocking some of the natural light, they cast harsh shadows on the interiors.
In addition, they need to be painted frequently and checked to ensure that they do not rust, which generates high costs and a lot of work (although let’s be honest, people who have perimeter bars around their entire house have enough money to pay for that maintenance). However, times and tastes change, so it’s normal that an alternative has emerged that is somewhat unusual to our eyes, but which offers the best of both worlds: they provide privacy by being translucent fences, but they let natural light through.
Say goodbye to hedges that need to be trimmed every month. Reinforced translucent glass fences are here, allowing you to relax in your yard without anyone seeing you.
Laminated Safety Glass: Security and Aesthetic
This type of fence, when integrated into a minimalist metal or aluminum frame, is no ordinary glass. It is high-strength laminated or tempered glass. This material is created with more than one layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB). Thanks to this inner layer, the glass acts as a barrier that does not break easily, even when impacted. This glass achieves a modern and minimalist aesthetic, maintaining an immediate sensual cleanliness that updates the façade. It maintains brightness, is feng shui-friendly, and allows optimal natural light to pass through.
This is ideal for homes with less favorable orientations, such as those facing northwest or north, as it compensates for the lack of direct sunlight. If you have ever lamented that the interiors of that part of your home are a little dim, glass fences may be the brightest option and can make the room feel more inviting again.
In addition, maintenance is significantly lower; you only need a nephew or child to clean the windows with a Scully. No more repainting and applying anti-corrosive treatment to iron fences. You also have plenty of alternatives: you can choose frosted, screen-printed, or micro-textured glass to block direct view from the street. Whatever your preferred level of privacy, you no longer have to sacrifice natural light.
Where to install this glass
If you live in a residential neighborhood, a gated community, or an area with low crime and vandalism rates, you may like the idea of installing a translucent fence. This safety glass acts as an effective visual deterrent and a barrier that resists opportunistic burglary attempts. However, these doors cannot be considered the only layer of security for your home. It is also advisable to reinforce this security with more discreet external security systems, such as cameras, vibration or pressure sensors, and alarms, which act as the first line of defense even before you reach the glass fence.
So now you know, if you’re tired of that old iron fence (it’s already rusty anyway!), and you miss being able to read on your terrace during the darker months, a new laminated glass fence may be the answer you’ve been looking for.