REKA Otomatik Yapı Teknolojileri
In Cyprus, the terrace is one of the most valuable spaces for restaurants and cafés. However, summer heat, winter rain and wind can mean the terrace cannot be used efficiently for part of the year. Motorised guillotine glass systems turn a terrace into a space you can use in all four seasons. In this article we explain how guillotine glass systems work, their advantages and what to watch out for.
What is a guillotine glass system?
Guillotine glass is a system of glass panels that move vertically up and down. In motorised systems, the panels open and close with a single button or remote control. In the open position the panels stack behind one another and the space becomes almost completely open.
Why guillotine glass?
- Year-round use: Blocks rain and wind in winter, and opens fully in summer for an open-air feel.
- Preserved views: Large glass surfaces do not block sea, harbour or city views. In scenic locations such as Kyrenia (Girne) harbour, this is a big advantage.
- Easy operation: Staff can open or close the space with one button depending on the weather.
- Space-saving: Unlike folding or sliding systems, it does not leave a stack of panels at the side when open.
- Security: In the closed position it protects the terrace outside business hours.
Applications
| Area | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Restaurant and café terraces | Year-round table capacity |
| Hotel lobbies and terrace bars | Weather protection while keeping the view |
| Home terraces and balconies | Winter-garden effect, extra living space |
| Poolside areas | Protection from wind and dust |
| Sales offices and showrooms | Flexible open/closed presentation space |
What to consider when choosing a system
- Glass type: Tempered or laminated glass should be preferred for safety. If thermal insulation is required, insulated glass options are considered.
- Profiles and materials: In coastal locations, corrosion-resistant aluminium profiles and suitable surface coatings are important.
- Motor and control: A motor suited to the panel weight, plus remote control and safety functions.
- Safety: Panels must stop if they meet an obstacle while descending.
- Wind and rain: The wind exposure of the site and rainwater drainage must be planned.
- Compatibility with the existing structure: The ceiling, pergola or eaves must be suitable to carry the system.
Tip: Planning guillotine glass together with a pergola or awning system makes the terrace more practical against both rain and summer sun. Designing the structure together from the start reduces compatibility problems later.
Safety
In motorised guillotine glass systems the panels are heavy and move vertically. Therefore:
- Obstacle detection and stop functions must be set correctly and tested regularly.
- Never stand beneath the panels while they are moving.
- Remote controls should be kept by authorised staff and not be accessible to customers or children.
- If you notice a crack in the glass or irregular movement of a panel, stop using the system and contact service.
Maintenance
- Glass surfaces and profiles should be cleaned regularly; salt builds up faster in coastal locations.
- Dust and leaves collected in rails and guides should be removed.
- The motor, belt or chain mechanism, seals and safety functions should be checked during periodic maintenance.
- Mechanical and electrical adjustments should be made by an authorised technical team.
Guillotine glass with REKA
At REKA Otomatik Yapı Teknolojileri, we install and maintain guillotine glass systems for restaurants, cafés, hotels and homes in every region of North Cyprus, from Kyrenia harbour to Nicosia (Lefkoşa). Site surveys are free, and our systems come with a 3-year warranty; if periodic maintenance is carried out without interruption, the warranty can be extended to up to 5 years. We provide 24/7 service in case of breakdowns. For your terrace project, fill in the quote form or call us on +90 539 102 13 13.
