Guillotine glass keeps the view clear, becomes a balustrade when open and works at the touch of a button; on the other hand it needs a motor and power, the full opening does not open, and it usually costs more than sliding glass. We set out the pros and cons plainly before you decide.
How does guillotine glass work?
In guillotine glass, 2 or 3 glass panels move up and down on a motor. When open, the panels stack at the bottom and the lower glass acts as a balustrade; when closed, they cover the whole façade.
Pros
- Keeps the view clear: no horizontal profile between waist and head height.
- Safe when open: the lower glass is a balustrade, and no lock is needed.
- One-touch operation: by button or remote; the glass stops at any height.
- Ventilation without draughts: leave a small gap at the top for fresh air.
- Takes no space: the sashes don't swing in or stack to the side.
- Insulation: when closed it insulates against sound, heat and water; 4+12+4 insulated glass is available.
- Easy servicing: jointed side rails allow glass replacement without dismantling the system.
Cons
- Needs power: it is motorised, so a power supply must reach the installation.
- The full opening does not open: as the panels stack at the bottom, the open part is roughly half the height with 2 panels or two-thirds with 3 panels. If you want the façade to open completely, folding glass is a better fit.
- Budget: as a motorised, more complex mechanism, it usually costs more than sliding glass.
- Maintenance and use: guillotine glass is one of the most trouble-free glass systems; motor faults are almost never seen (below 5 per cent), and having the electrics checked is enough. In cafés and restaurants, keep tables, chairs and menus out of the glass's path; on chain systems these can make the chain jump off.
Who does it suit?
| Need | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Balcony or terrace with a view | Guillotine glass |
| Restaurant and café façades | Guillotine glass |
| A façade that opens fully | Folding glass |
| Economical, insulated enclosure | Insulated sliding glass |
| Side of a pergola | Guillotine glass or zip screen |
Our detailed comparison of the three glass systems: Guillotine, sliding and folding glass.
