Issue 44 winter 24 - Journal - Page 32
Solar control glass either reflects energy or absorbs it to
reradiate the heat outwards.By its nature it gets hotter
than clear glass and glass that is designed for thermal
efficiency alone. Whilst the majority of installations are
within the operating tolerance, in some cases fluctuation
in heat can put the stress beyond the limits.
Laminated glass is also heavier which needs to be
remembered when planning lifting schedules and
structural requirements.
Another issue experienced with laminated glass is a
phenomenon called lensing, where images become
distorted.
This doesn’t necessarily cause such an issue with flat
rooflight glazing where the view is a simple sky backdrop,
but on pitched rooflights with a view of a landscape,this
distortion will be a problem.
In summary, while there is a growing trend for projects to
include more and larger rooflights, it is not as straight
forward as just adding them to the plans. Clearly there is
so much more to specifying large rooflights than meets
the eye and while your rooflight manufacturer will be able
to provide recommendations, ultimately having a better
understanding of what glazing is required and involving
a qualified structural engineer in the early phases will
resolve any issues you may have further down the line.
For further information or to discuss your bespoke
rooflight requirement contact the Stella Rooflight team
on 01794 745445 or email
info@stellarooflight.co.ukwww.stellarooflight.co.uk
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Conservation & Heritage Journal
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