The Ascot vertical baluster style by UNEX can be used for both external and internal applications, including decks, balconies, stairways and landings, mezzanine floors, pedestrian gates, and pool fences.

UNEX balustrades are designed to and comply with 'A', 'B', 'E' and 'C3' loadings of AS/NZS 1170.1:2002 for residential applications, office, and work areas, as well as areas for moving people without obstacles.

A wide range of fixing options are available to fix to the top and sides of both timber and concrete substrates.  UNEX's DKG2 gutter bracket system is designed for membrane decks with gutters and waterproofing considerations. Site-specific specifications may also be provided upon request for those non-standard situations

UNEX designs for residential situations, office, and work areas, as well as for areas with moving people, however, cannot be used for 'C1/C2', 'C5' or 'D' Loadings. In these applications, UNEX recommends the use of its 'Extreme Barriers' range of styles which has been specifically developed for these higher loadings in crowd and public situations.  

The standard UNEX top rails comply with the handrail profile requirements of D1/AS1 for 'Private' and 'Common' stairways (with the exception of the #ARC and #ART top rails), but do not comply for 'Accessible Stairways or Ramps'.

Where a top rail of a balustrade on a stairway does not comply with D1/AS1, Unex Systems recommends an auxiliary complying handrail is mounted to the side of the balustrade posts.

For certain buildings — such as architectural sky rises (over 3 stories high), light commercial or high pollution areas — a higher grade powder coat powder must be specified.  

UNEX has designed its range of balustrade styles to comply with the B1, B2, E2, and F4 requirements of the NZ Building Code and are suitable for occupancy types 'A', 'B', 'E' and 'C3' in accordance with AS/NZS 1170.

Producer Statements for all standard specifications can be created online in the registered area of the UNEX website. For non-standard situations not covered by Unex's specifications, a site-specific PS1 and specification may be prepared by UNEX upon request.

UNEX specialises in designing and manufacturing architectural balustrade systems for over 40 years.  

All vertical baluster styles have been incorporated in Unex's range from the beginning, as a traditional and cost-effective style. A number of enhancements have been made throughout this time — in particular during 2008, when the building code changed to incorporate AS/NZS1170 which meant that the required balustrades loads effectively doubled and again in 2016 when the building code stipulated glass styles required interlinking top rails. Unex then redesigned a number of their balustrade extrusions to ensure these loads and safety precautions were adequately met.