Glass Floor Walkways and Stair Treads
GBA Architectural Products + Services was founded in 1985 by Jeff Boesch of Medina, Ohio in his family's garage. A few years later he was joined by his younger brother Steve, and eventually his older brother Chuck joined the business. Together the three brothers used their different skill sets to make GBA the successful and highly respected company that it is today. GBA started off as a small business focusing on supplying and installing glass block basement windows in Northeast Ohio. Over the years our scope of work has broadened to high performance glass block, structural glass and walkable skylights. We are a specialty contractor that has the ability and experience to complete any size glass block or structural glass project. We now concentrate on high end homes and commercial buildings all over the United States and beyond.
This one-hour course examines the integration of glass into walkways and stair systems with a focus on safety, performance, and sustainability. Participants will gain insight into the structural characteristics and design considerations that ensure glass flooring systems meet both aesthetic and functional goals. Discussion topics include glass types, slip resistance, structural supports, and detailing practices that enhance occupant safety and comfort. The course also highlights how properly designed glass walkways and stairs can contribute to daylighting, energy efficiency, and overall sustainable building design.
- Explain how glass walkways and stair systems support occupant health, safety, and welfare through proper material selection, detailing, and installation.
- Differentiate between various types of glass used in walkway and stair applications and describe how each addresses structural performance, durability, slip resistance, and privacy.
- Identify key design and support considerations that ensure structural stability, code compliance, and long-term performance of glass flooring systems.
- Recognize how glass walkways and stairs can contribute to sustainable design strategies, including daylighting and potential LEED credit pathways.
