Glass balustrades in Sydney are a favourite due to their sleek aesthetic and capacity to open up maximum views. But numerous homeowners and property owners have been asking whether native wildlife in the area, such as birds, possums, or bats, can pose problems to these installations. Knowing how these animals respond to glass balustrades can help you ensure your investment and peacefully coexist with Sydney's native wildlife.
Are Birds a Threat to Glass Balustrades?
Birds, such as balustrades, are the most frequent wildlife that encroach upon glass surfaces.
The first significant problem is bird strikes, as birds hit glass panels since they fail to perceive the transparent boundary.
This can result in bird injury or death, and also damage to the glass.
Some bird species in Sydney, such as kookaburras, ravens, and magpies, will also peck or hit glass if they notice their reflection and become confused with an intruder.
The behaviour can lead to scratches or small chips over time.
To reduce bird strikes, some homeowners use decals, films, or patterned glass treatments that fragment reflections and render the glass visible to birds.
Will Possums Damage Glass Balustrades?
Possums are abundant in Sydney City and are clever climbers.
Although they do not usually attack glass, they will climb on or over balustrades, thereby possibly causing wear to metal fittings or handrails fixed onto the glass.
Possums sometimes deposit droppings or scratch surfaces when they pass through, which may need frequent cleaning to preserve the appearance of the balustrade.
Possums will not normally damage the glass panels by impact.
What About Bats and Their Interaction with Glass Balustrades?
Bats are generally nocturnal and prefer not to frequent well-illuminated areas, and thus their contact with glass balustrades is minimal.
They do not tend to fly into glass or damage it. Bats will at times roost at eaves or in crevices around balconies, and this might result in droppings around balustrades.
Although this does not directly impact the glass, it may lead to hygiene issues and need to be cleaned.
Putting bat boxes far from residential areas can cause bats to roost elsewhere, thereby preserving your balustrades and property.
How Long Last Glass Balustrades Last Against Wildlife?
Glass balustrades in Sydney are usually constructed using toughened or laminated safety glass that is capable of withstanding impact and weather.
Toughened glass is highly resistant to shattering and is ideal for handrails and balustrades.
While bird collisions may result in minor surface scratches or dirt buildup, the integrity of glass balustrades is seldom affected by birds, possums, or bats.
Daily maintenance and cleaning will maintain their transparency and safety.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Glass Balustrade?
Install Bird-Friendly Treatments: Apply decals, films, or patterned glass to minimise bird strikes and glinting.
Keep Surrounding Vegetation: Prune trees and shrubs to restrict possum access and lower wildlife traffic around balustrades.
Daily Cleaning: Regularly clean droppings, dirt, and rubbish to keep it looking tidy and hygienic.
Utilise Durable Materials: Have your balustrade constructed with toughened or laminated glass with robust fittings to handle environmental and wildlife stresses.
Optimise Wildlife Deterrents: Where there is recurring possum or bat presence, humane deterrents or substitute roosting sites might be necessary.
Conclusion
Though birds, possums, and bats can come into contact with glass balustrades in Sydney, the threat of major harm is minimal. Birds are likely to cause some scratches or strikes, possums can leave impressions or deposits, and bats stay away from glass entirely. With suitable design decisions, upkeep, and wildlife-tolerant precautions, glass balustrades can be stunning, secure, and long-lasting in your residential or business space, without obstructing your appreciation of Sydney's landscape.
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