What Is a Carpenter, Metal Fabricator or Specialised Balustrade Contractor?

Carpenters, metal fabricators and balustrade specialists are tradespeople who supply and install external balustrades for decks, balconies, verandahs, and stairs. The right trade for your job will depend on the materials you’ve chosen:

  • Timber or basic wire systems → engage a Carpenter
  • Custom steel, aluminium or stainless systems → engage a Metal Fabricator
  • Frameless or semi-frameless glass, or architectural systems → engage a Specialised Balustrade Contractor



Each trade brings different skills and tools — make sure you match your design to the right professional.

What Does a Carpenter, Metal Fabricator or Specialised Balustrade Contractor Do?

Your contractor will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, they will:

  • Supply or fabricate the external balustrade system
  • Install posts, handrails, and infills (glass, timber, wire, etc.)
  • Anchor the system securely to framing, decking, or concrete
  • Ensure the installation complies with building regulations
  • Coordinate with other trades where fixings, flashings, or waterproofing are involved


Balustrades are a safety feature — correct height, spacing, and strength are essential for final certification.

Tip: Choose Materials Early and Confirm Fixing Method

Balustrade quotes can vary widely depending on your design. Check if supply, installation, and all fittings are included — especially for frameless glass or custom fabrication. Also confirm the sequence with any waterproofing or cladding to avoid rework.

What Makes a Good Carpenter, Metal Fabricator or Balustrade Contractor?

Look for someone who:

  • Has specific experience with the balustrade type you’re installing
  • Understands NCC/BCA compliance for balustrades
  • Can read plans accurately and work to precise levels
  • Clearly lists what’s included and excluded in the quote
  • Offers warranties on both materials and workmanship


A good contractor will also be upfront about lead times, access issues, and any extra costs.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To request quotes for external balustrades, you’ll need:

  • Final construction drawings showing balustrade locations and dimensions
  • Your selected or preferred balustrade materials
  • Structural details or finished floor levels where the balustrades will be fixed
  • Any relevant waterproofing or cladding details that may affect installation
  • A current Building Approval (issued by your private certifier)

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 7-10 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I install external balustrades myself?

    Not recommended unless you’re experienced. Poorly installed systems can fail waterproofing or breach safety codes.

  • Do balustrades need to be certified?

    Yes — your certifier may require documentation proving your balustrade meets Australian Standards for height, spacing, and structural loads.

  • What's the 'Check Measure & Spigot Install' stage?

    This is when your contractor returns to site to take final, accurate measurements after your deck or slab is complete. If you’re installing glass balustrades, they’ll also fix spigots in place at this stage.


    Spigots are small metal supports that hold the base of each glass panel — they’re typically bolted into concrete or timber framing and allow the glass to sit securely without a full frame.


    Getting this step right ensures your balustrade is fabricated to the exact dimensions, fits perfectly, and avoids delays or rework during installation.

How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.