GlassWalk™ Series 2000 Training Course
GlassWalk Series 2000 is the original GlassWalk system developed for commercial and residential applications. GlassWalk Series 2000 is a fully engineered system comprised of 6063-T6 aluminum with a standard semi-gloss black powder coat finish, 2-ply structural laminated glass floor panels engineered to meet or exceed a 100lb/sf live load requirement, structural silicone sealant, and a silicone cushion for the glass to rest on. Our system can bend to fit certain shapes or wherever the design goes. GlassWalk Series 2000 was made with the end user in mind. This gravity-fit system can be installed by the ambitious DIY-er or a skilled glazing contractor. GlassWalk Series 2000 is a great system for glass floor balcony applications, display floors, wine cellars, pedestrian bridges, residential glass floors, glass decks, and stair landings.
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GlassWalk Series 2000 Applications
The GlassWalk Series 2000 is versatile and well-suited for a variety of applications, including glass decks, walkways in both commercial and residential settings, floors above wine cellars or art cases, and even floors over LED screens. While the system is not fully waterproof due to its gravity-fit design, it is highly water-resistant thanks to its sealed construction and custom fit for each opening. This system requires a minimum depth of 4-1/16″ from the top of the support to the desired finish floor height to ensure it remains flush with the surrounding floor. Additionally, a minimum 2″ supporting ledge is needed to distribute the weight effectively. If these measurements cannot be met, one of our other systems may be a more suitable solution. It’s important to note that because the GlassWalk Series 2000 is gravity-fit and not welded, we cannot guarantee full waterproofing, making it essential to consider these factors in your project planning.
Limitations
When we say a floor can handle a 100 lb/square foot live load, it’s a safety guideline rather than a strict limit. This rating ensures the floor can support varying weights over time without immediate failure. For instance, a 200 lb person standing on a 1 square foot area would exceed this live load, but it doesn’t mean the floor will break instantly. The weight is spread across the person’s feet and more than one square foot, reducing pressure on any single point. Additionally, building materials like those used in GlassWalk Series 2000 are designed with a safety margin, allowing them to handle brief moments of slightly higher loads without failing.
The GlassWalk Series 2000 is designed to span openings up to 48 inches without the need for intermediate support. For containment openings or floor sections measuring 48 inches or less across, the system offers a seamless and sturdy solution. However, if the span exceeds 48 inches, intermediate support becomes necessary to maintain structural integrity and safety. For intermediate support, we use the same material as the framing; in the case of the Series 2000, this means aluminum supports between the glass, which are padded with a layer of cushion to protect the glass. This approach helps distribute the weight evenly across the span, preventing excessive deflection and preserving the system’s strength.
Installation Steps
Ensure it’s level and shimmed, with a 4-1/16″ distance from the top of the perimeter support to the top of the finished floor to be flush. The perimeter support must have a minimum 2″ bearing. All corners should align, and surfaces must be smooth, flat, and free of debris. Adjust as needed to fit the floor system.
The corners should meet and be flush, keeping the perimeter members upright. Ensure the perimeter member parts are well seated and in direct contact with the containment ring.
Put it in diagonally first to clear the edges, then pivot it into place. Do the same with any spacers needed. Make sure each end of the spanning member sits right on the 2″ edge of the supporting structure.
Ensure Before placing the glass, pivot the spacer into position just like you did with the spanning members.
As each row of glass units and spacers is completely installed, make sure that the spanning members and spacers fit tight
Before it is pivoted, the spacer members for the last two rows should be placed at opposite ends of the spanning member
To slide the spacers into their proper positions, use two blocks of wood to carefully spread the spanning members apart. Install the remaining glass units.
When you apply the sealant, make sure it covers the top of the silicone cushion. Just move the sealant forward as you apply it.
Don’t use rough or strong cleaners, detergents, or paint removers on the aluminum parts
FAQs About Glass Floors
Approximately 1” thick, .935” to be exact (3/8” over .060 over ½”)
It stands 4-1/16” tall and is approximately 1-1/8” wide.
We draft up our shop drawings based on the containment opening size provided to us and can figure the rest from that. Typically, it’s 1/16” from the containment opening to allow for tolerance, and the glass size depends on spanning members and design.
Final Conclusion
In summary, the GlassWalk Series 2000 is a versatile and customizable structural glass floor system designed for various applications, such as glass decks, walkways, and floors over unique spaces like wine cellars or LED screens. It features a 2-ply Structural Laminated Tempered Glass Make-Up housed in a 6063-T6 Aluminum Frame, providing both aesthetic appeal and durability. The system can span up to 48 inches without intermediate support and requires a minimum depth of 4-1/16″ from the top of the perimeter support to the finished floor. While it’s not fully waterproof due to its gravity-fit design, it offers high water resistance when properly sealed. Installation involves careful measurement, leveling, and alignment of components like the containment ring, perimeter support, and spanning members. Proper cleaning with gentle products is recommended to maintain the system’s appearance. Overall, the GlassWalk Series 2000 offers a stylish, functional, and reliable solution for architectural projects, backed by GBA Architectural Products + Services’ commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.