MEASUREMENTS & INSTALLATION PLANNING

Panel length is not the same as an approved structural span.

Timber Balustrades uses 2,500 mm as its maximum single-panel supply length. This is not a universal BCA or NCC permission to span 2.5 metres between posts. A particular rail and connection arrangement may require a shorter span. Confirm the structural design before ordering.

Reviewed 5 November 2026 by Timber Balustrades. Product statements below are owner-confirmed; regulatory references are identified separately.

What do I measure between posts?

Measure the clear opening between the inside faces of the existing or proposed posts, in millimetres. Enter that exact measurement. Our calculator does not deduct a post width, apply a clearance or automatically divide it into two panels. Name each separate opening so that the quote can refer to the same location.

What happens if my opening is over 2,500 mm?

The shop shows a warning and suggests considering two panels with a new intermediate post. It keeps your entered measurement unchanged. Confirm the new post position and then measure and enter each resulting post-to-post opening separately. Simply halving the old opening does not account for the new post occupying space.

Why does a rail profile change the allowable span?

Rail dimensions, profile, timber properties, support arrangement, connections and design loads affect structural performance. A stock length or maximum manufactured panel length is not evidence of an allowable installed span. Ask your project designer or engineer to identify the applicable design and connection details.

Does MGP10 certify the whole balustrade?

No. Our rail timber is LOSP-treated, finger-jointed and laminated MGP10 pine. The MGP10 specification applies to rails only. It does not independently establish the capacity of the shaped rail, assembled panel, balusters, posts or fixings. We do not claim that every joint is stronger than the surrounding timber without product-specific evidence.

Read the rail material specification ↗

Does a 900 mm preview mean a compliant installed height?

No. A panel dimension or illustrative preview is different from the final barrier height above the finished floor. The ABCB Housing Provisions 2022, Part 11.3, generally require a 1,000 mm minimum barrier above a deck, verandah or balcony floor, with different stair provisions. The edition, building class, state requirements and approval applicable to your project must be confirmed.

How close together are the balusters?

The business confirms clear gaps below 120 mm between adjacent balusters. That statement does not resolve every decorative opening, perimeter gap or climbability restriction. The installed arrangement needs to meet the requirements applicable to the site.

What should accompany a layout enquiry?

• A named opening schedule with exact clear widths and required heights.
• Photographs showing posts, floor edges and existing connections.
• Whether each opening is level, on a stair or on a landing.
• The rail and baluster profile, plus any relevant approved drawing.
• Proposed new posts, supporting structure and delivery postcode.

Follow the measuring checklist ↗ · Request a quote without using the calculator ↗