Selectaglaze adds value in London’s historic financial district

As part of a major refurbishment project in partnership with TP Bennett and Overbury, Selectaglaze sympathetic secondary glazing for 3 Moorgate Place helped the historic 17th century property retain its original grandeur, while conserving heat and cancelling out noise. But it very nearly didn’t happen…

This impressive property was built in the 17th century by the Clothworkers Livery Company. Originally known as Coleman Street Buildings, it was renamed as Moorgate Place sometime in the 19th century. Today, it is in the heart of London’s financial district; a unique part of London and an important slice of English history.

Selectaglaze was approached to explore secondary glazing solutions to provide thermal insulation across all floors and ensure everything was in keeping with the character of this remarkable building.

Sympathetic glazing that pays for itself

Well-sealed secondary glazing will regulate temperature and help lower energy consumption. By improving the energy performance of an office building, it can contribute towards a higher rated Energy Performance Certificate or an improved BREEAM rating. But at one point, it wasn’t certain that the work was going ahead, and secondary glazing was value-engineered out of the scope of works.

However, it was assessed that the extra equipment and associated cost of mechanical and electrical works to enhance the heating and ventilation system was far greater than installing secondary glazing, which would provide the same benefits, so it was re-introduced into the plan. This will enhance the working environment, with a significant difference in thermal retention, draughts virtually eliminated and improved energy performance.

Cleaner, quieter London offices

In addition to the clear financial benefits of improved heating insulation, Selectaglaze secondary glazing seals fit so well that there is a big reduction in airborne dirt and dust from outside. Furthermore, Selectaglaze secondary glazing fitted with a 100mm cavity will reduce noise levels by a certified 45dB or more to create a more peaceful space needed for productive work. Impressive, given that the offices are in the heart of busy London.

Bespoke solutions for a unique period property

So what was the scale of the project? Well, a total of 289 secondary glazing units were installed across all floors in the building; in open plan office spaces, elevator lobbies and a reception area at the entrance, the majority of which were Series 20 vertical sliders.

With its slim profiles, this style was perfect for treating traditional sash windows, and an ideal match for the existing fenestration. In addition, it’s designed to make cleaning easier, and allows for access to the primary window.

As the ceiling of the ground floor had been raised, Selectaglaze installed tall Series 20 vertical sliders with Series 31 lift out units coupled above them. A horizontal sliding system could have been used here as another treatment option, but the client preferred to remain consistent with the units on the upper floors and have, where possible, the same secondary glazing product throughout.

There was also a newly refurbished reception area with two large curved primary windows on either side of the front entrance. Six Series 46 curved fixed light units were specified for these windows as it has a very slim fixed frame that can be shaped and curved to a full circle if required.

The end result? Very satisfied customers

Overbury have been impressed with how well the secondary glazing is performing and have already noticed how much warmer and acoustically efficient the building is.

Bob Squires, Overbury Senior Project Manager, says: “Selectaglaze worked with Overbury and TP Bennet during the design phase to maximise both the thermal and acoustic properties of the existing building envelop to enhance the building to meet modern standards. Selectaglaze was very helpful during this stage and surveyed all the existing window openings.

“The programme was phased with two floors being installed together and each phase three weeks apart. The site guys were very organised and snagged their own works as it was installed so there were zero defects at the end of the project.

“I would have no hesitation in recommending Selectaglaze for future projects.”

To read about Selectaglaze installing 47 secondary glazing units to a number of large gothic arched stained-glass windows in St Philip’s Church, Wolverhampton, click here.

Contact:

Selectaglaze,
Alban Park,
Hatfield Road,
St. Albans,
Hertfordshire,
AL4 0JJ

Phone: 01727 837271
Fax: 01727 844053

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