Issue 46 April 25 web - Flipbook - Page 36
What sets frameless
structural glass apart
from less expensive framed
alternatives?
We asked Peter Hazeldean, MD of heritage structural glass specialists Ion Glass Ltd to explain why
choosing frameless structural glass is often the best choice for conservation and heritage properties.
Peter explained, ‘Architectural glass can be used in many
different ways, from balustrades, screens and doors to fully
weatherproof glass links and porches that become an
integral element of the building structure.
If you’re installing glass in a heritage property it is even
more important to maintain the original aesthetic, which
can only really be achieved by avoiding visually intrusive
metal or wooden framework wherever possible.
The structure of your installation is created by the glass
itself, avoiding the need for intrusive framework that
might damage the structure of your building and would
affect the original look and feel of the architecture.
We can even design and engineer glass fins and beams to
provide a fully robust alternative to metal or wooden
supports for a stylish outcome that has negligible impact
either visually or physically on your property.
Our designs use minimal fixings to avoid damaging the
walls of your building and also to avoid the requirement
for footings.’
Why would you choose frameless glass to link a
heritage property to a new extension?
‘Use of structural glass is often the only option when
linking a heritage property with a modern extension - the
glass provides a functional and robust interface between
the different building techniques employed. Our bespoke
frameless glass links make use of concealed channels and
discreet fixings to avoid damaging impact on the walls of
your building and also to avoid the need for footings. We
once installed a frameless glass link over a graveyard, but
with no need for footings we were able to create a fully
weatherproof link without disturbing the graves below!
We aim to reduce the number of glass panels required for
the best possible aesthetic, regularly fitting over-sized
panels or glass made to specific shapes to meet the
requirements of the design.’
Below, A series of frameless glass screens, infilling the arches in a
covered loggia creates a new dining and meeting area for a 17th
century hotel
