ecclesiastical

There are thousands of Churches in the UK and large numbers are in historic buildings. These have been at the centre of a community and form an important part of our heritage. Changing times and lack of funding mean that many are being lost altogether. However there are opportunities to conserve and develop buildings for wider church and community use and some, following deconsecration become theatres, concert halls or homes. These adaptations usually require the buildings to be carefully updated to meet modern standards. 
Selectaglaze secondary glazing can provide sensitive treatments that will provide significant improvements to acoustic and thermal insulation.

Peaceful environments

Noise can be a problem to congregations in city Churches close to busy roads but equally sound from church activities, including services and community centres, may cause a noise nuisance to local neighbours.

Selectaglaze secondary glazing fitted with standard glass can substantially reduce noise levels by 42 - 45dB and even higher levels if thicker glass is introduced.

Conserving energy

Church buildings tend to have large single glazed windows which are thermally inefficient and often quite draughty. Areas that have regular community use will be difficult and expensive to heat and draughts will make the areas quite uncomfortable in winter months. When a church building is converted to a home, improved thermal insulation will be a very important consideration. A secondary window provides draught sealing over the whole of the primary window and introduces a second pane of glass that traps an insulating layer of air.

Selectaglaze secondary glazing includes two efficient draught seals and, with a low emissivity glass, heat loss can be reduced by up to 65%. 

Enhance security

A break-in can cause a lot of upset and real loss. A secondary window fitted with a lock provides a simple additional barrier to entry and will provide an additional deterrent.
Selectaglaze also offers enhanced systems accredited to “Secured by Design” and are a “Police Preferred Specification”.

Sensitive Design

Church windows are generally large with curved panels and many include stained glass. Selectaglaze secondary glazing is designed to have minimal visual impact on the character and design of the original building - both externally and internally. The custom made units are able to reflect the lines of the original windows, including gothic arched, curved, round and curved on plan. The standard finish is white which matches most windows but a wide range of colours is available to help the frames blend with existing finishes. Secondary windows set in front of important stained glass panels can incorporate anti-reflective glass to maintain clarity.

Listed Building Consent

Work on listed buildings has to be covered by a Listed Building Consent and advice should be obtained from the local Conservation Officer. In most instances, secondary glazing will be an acceptable addition.

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