Comfortable and safer working environments with Selectaglaze secondary glazing
A good work environment provides a sense of wellbeing and encourages efficiency, an important consideration when it is estimated that we spend more than 10 years of our lives in the work place. Factors that contribute towards the environment include a comfortable temperature and acceptable noise levels.
Well-designed secondary glazing systems offer a cost effective method of almost eliminating draughts, retaining more heat and keeping unwanted external noise out. This will lead to a more comfortable work space and a helpful reduction in energy bills. Secondary glazing traps an insulating layer of air between the glass panes and if low emissivity glass is incorporated, heat loss can be reduced by up to 65%. These measures make a building more attractive for both sale or lease and assist with the wider commitment to carbon reduction.
Many offices are located close to transport links and in busy town centres where outside noise levels are high, which can distract attention and make people less efficient at work. The recommended ambient noise level in a meeting room is 35-40dB and a cell office 40-50dB, whereas outside street noise levels can be 70-80dB.
Selectaglaze secondary glazing set 100-150mm from the primary window and fitted with standard glass can substantially reduce noise levels by 42-45dB and even higher levels if a heavier glass is chosen. Many offices are still found within older buildings, often in city centres or around transport hubs. These were constructed with less thermally efficient materials and in times when noise was not quite such an issue. The windows in particular do not retain heat well, are often draughty and usually acoustically inefficient.
Selectaglaze secondary glazing is fully fabricated in-house and delivered to site by Selectaglaze installation teams. Works can be planned for vacant rooms or low occupation areas during normal hours, whilst busy areas can be dealt with outside normal working hours. Many schemes will include wall insulation and the secondary glazing can fit within this to become an integral part of the overall design.
Founded in 1966, Royal Warrant Holder Selectaglaze has gained a reputation as a leading secondary glazing specialist, creating sensitive designs with low visual impact. Literature and guidance notes covering acoustics, thermal performance and added security are offered together with a technical advisory service and RIBA approved CPD Seminars. Selectaglaze will be exhibiting at London Build 2018 in Olympia, London at Stand G36 on the 23rd -24th October.
Contact Selectaglaze on 01727 837271/e mail: enquiries@selectaglaze.co.uk or visit: www.selectaglaze.co.uk
