Understand what “assembled” covers
Karem lists fully assembled balustrade panels, and Heritage lists assembled and kit options within its range. These supply formats describe the panel, not a complete installed verandah. Ask what arrives, what still needs cutting or fitting, and which parts are separate. Keep that written scope with your quote.
For a renovation, the surrounding structure is just as important as the panel. Existing posts, decking and stair connections need to be suitable for the intended installation. Choosing an assembled panel does not resolve a weak post or establish the required barrier design. Your installer needs to assess the actual site.
Compare tasks, not just labels
| Question | Assembled panel | Kit or components |
|---|---|---|
| Where is the panel assembled? | Before delivery, within the agreed supply scope | Usually as part of the site work; confirm the kit contents |
| Who resolves member set-out? | Workshop and installer must agree the final arrangement | Installer needs a confirmed set-out and assembly method |
| What site work remains? | Confirm fitting, supports, connections and finishing | Confirm assembly as well as fitting and finishing |
| What should the quote include? | Exact panel configuration and separate items | Component quantities, lengths and any omitted materials |
Make the enquiries comparable
Send the same opening schedule and pattern code for each option. Specify the handrail choice, level or stair application, timber preference and proposed finish. If one quote includes posts and another does not, the totals describe different packages. Ask the supplier to identify exclusions rather than trying to infer them from a product photograph.
Keep quantities and units visible. A price may apply to a lineal metre, an individual component or a whole panel. Heritage’s BS2 entries are listed each, while several other panel entries use lineal metres. A simple length multiplier cannot fairly compare all products. Confirm the quoted unit, tax, delivery and any custom work in writing.
Ask your installer about sequencing
Discuss when the posts will be ready, who takes final measurements and where the materials can be kept before fitting. For an assembled panel, access and handling deserve attention: the route to a side deck may be narrower than the space visible from the street. Give the supplier any known access constraints before the manufacturing plan is settled.
For a kit, ask the installer to allow for identifying components, checking quantities, setting out members and completing the assembly. Do not assume that a kit saves money overall without including that labour. Equally, do not assume that an assembled option needs no site adjustment. The final specification should explain the intended fitting process.
Resolve the finish responsibility
We supply natural LOSP-treated pine, unpainted and unprimed. Painted photographs show an installed finish; painting is arranged separately by the customer.
Make a decision with a clear scope
Use the Balustrade Shop to compare the pattern across your opening, then read the measurement guide before sending an enquiry. The brochure library and traditional collection help identify the parts. Agree final dimensions, member spacing, rail profiles, connections, supply format and finish before ordering.
Sources & editorial scope
Browse balustrade photographs from the brochures, websites and workshop. Confirm the selected pattern and dimensions with our team.
Reference record: 24 October 2026. Confirm the current product and written quote before ordering.