museums & libraries

The UK has a strong collection of Museums and Libraries many in architecturally significant buildings. Numerous older buildings have also been saved and restored through conversion to Museums that provide a vibrant view of history and become valuable cultural attractions.
Most of these traditional buildings have single glazed windows which may not provide adequate environmental or security protection to the collections.

Selectaglaze secondary glazing systems can help maintain controlled environments, limit the damage from Ultraviolet light, reduce noise nuisance in libraries and provide certified levels of security to meet MLA guidelines.

Enhanced security

Museums and Libraries need to protect their most important exhibits, books and manuscripts. Guidance is provided by The Council for Museums, Libraries and Archives and well protected windows are high on the list for compliance with the Government Indemnity Scheme.

Selectaglaze produces enhanced systems accredited to “Secured by Design” which are a “Police Preferred Specification”. These windows undergo rigorous testing and the most secure range meets the standards of the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) and are listed in the Red Book. They match the resistance offered by heavy bars or grilles without drawing attention to the protection.

Environmental control

Many collections require careful control of temperature, humidity and light and when exhibited in buildings with traditional single glazed windows measures must be taken to ensure that control systems function efficiently. In addition paintings, books and fabrics need to be protected against the damaging effect of ultraviolet light.
Selectaglaze secondary glazing includes two efficient draught seals and with a low emissivity glass heat loss can be reduced by up to 65% allowing the internal environment to be effectively controlled. The inclusion of a laminated glass will also ensure that most ultraviolet light is absorbed.

Peace and Quiet

Visitors to Museums and Libraries value the opportunity of peace and quiet for reading and research and this will be of particular concern in noisy city centre locations. 

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 thicker glass is introduced.

Sensitivity of design

Museums and Libraries will often own buildings that are listed or of special character and any intervention needs to be sensitive and in the case of listed buildings, reversible.
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 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 the existing finishes.

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