Getting your measurements right before placing your order is the most important step in a successful DIY balustrade installation. This page covers the key numbers you need to know. For a complete step-by-step walkthrough — including staircase measurements, infill calculations, and a site plan guide — read our full How to Measure for a Balustrade guide.
Quick Reference: Key Measurements at a Glance
| What to measure | Minimum / Rule | Notes |
| Balustrade height (deck / balcony) | 1,000mm above finished floor | SANS 10400-M minimum |
| Balustrade height (staircase) | 900mm above pitch line | Measured from nosing line |
| Post spacing (centre to centre) | Maximum 1,000–1,200mm | Closer spacing always acceptable |
| Infill tube gap | Maximum 100mm | 80–100mm recommended |
| Number of posts | Run ÷ spacing, then +1 | Always round up |
What You Will Need
- Tape measure (at least 5m)
- Spirit level
- Pencil and notepad — or your phone’s notes app
- A helper for longer runs
The Three Measurements Every Order Is Based On
Every balustrade order comes down to three fundamentals:
- Total linear metres — the full length of balustrade you need, measured along the line it will follow
- Height — from the finished floor or deck surface to the top of the handrail
- Number of posts — calculated from your run length and chosen post spacing
| 💡 Always add 5–10% to your total linear metres to allow for cutting waste and minor adjustments. |
Minimum Height Requirements (SANS 10400-M)
South African building regulations set the following minimum heights. These are legal minimums — err on the higher side if in doubt.
- Decks, balconies, and landings: minimum 1,000mm above finished floor level
- Staircases: minimum 900mm above the pitch line (the line connecting the nosings of the steps)
Post Spacing
Space your posts (balustrade posts) no more than 1,000–1,200mm apart, measured centre to centre. To calculate how many posts you need:
- Divide your total run length by your chosen post spacing
- Round up to the nearest whole number
- Add one — you always need a post at each end
| 💡 Example: 6,000mm ÷ 1,000mm = 6 spaces. Add one end post = 7 posts total. |
Infill Tube Spacing
The gap between infill tubes must not exceed 100mm — this is the SANS 10400-M maximum to prevent a child’s head from passing through. A gap of 80–100mm is recommended for both compliance and aesthetics.
Staircase Installations
Staircases require additional measurements and angled fittings to accommodate the rake of the stair. If your project includes a staircase, read the full staircase section in our measuring guide, or contact us directly and we will walk you through it.
| Not Sure? Use Our Free DIY Estimate Service You don’t need to work out every calculation yourself. Submit your measurements via our free DIY Estimate service and our team will produce a complete, itemised component list for your project — checking for common errors and flagging any potential compliance issues before you spend a rand. Visit balustrader.co.za/diy-estimate to get started. 📧 sales@balustrader.co.za 📞 +27 64 044 1440 |
For the complete measuring walkthrough — including site plan tips, infill tube calculations, glass infill planning, and a full staircase guide — read our How to Measure for a Balustrade blog post.
Common measuring questions are also answered in our FAQ section, including guidance on compatibility, staircase fittings, and what to do if you receive an incorrect order.