office

Offices need to provide comfortable conditions that allow for efficient working. A large number of offices are located within older city centre buildings that have thermally and acoustically inefficient glazing.

Selectaglaze secondary glazing systems offer a very cost effective method of keeping the sounds of the city centre at bay, reducing draughts and improving thermal insulation.

Conserving energy

All buildings need to conserve energy but commercial buildings are also subject to Energy Performance Certificates when they are sold or rented and larger users will be subject to the Carbon Reduction Commitment. These measures will encourage investment in low carbon environments and help tenants maintain control over rising energy costs.
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%. 

Highly effective noise insulation

Many offices are conveniently located close to transport links and in busy town or city centres where outside noise levels will be high. Noise is unwanted sound that can distract attention and make people less efficient at their work. The recommended ambient noise level in a meeting room is 35-40dB and for a cell office 40-50dB. Outside street levels noise can be 70-80dB
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.

Enhanced security

Offices can be an easy target for theft, particularly of computers, and the disruption and potential loss of important information could adversely affect the business.
A secondary window fitted with a lock provides a simple additional barrier to entry. Selectaglaze also offers enhanced systems accredited to “Secured by Design” and are a “Police Preferred Specification”. These windows undergo rigorous testing and the most secure range matches the resistance offered by heavy bars or grilles and could help with insurance premiums.

Importance of Design

The design of offices has to reflect changing needs and since the vast majority of offices will be found in older buildings these must be adapted to suit.
The Selectaglaze range of secondary windows is able to meet these needs and includes styles that have minimal visual impact on the character of a period or listed façade. The custom made units are able to reflect the lines of the original windows, including arched, curved, round and curved on plan.
If a contemporary feel is planned for a traditional building secondary glazing with clean lines and integral blinds can be inserted within a new insulated wall lining. Casement units with flush hinges and locks and detachable handles are very suited to this design.

Minimising Disruption

Secondary glazing can be fitted to a fully occupied office or as part of a general refurbishment.
In occupied offices Selectaglaze will liaise closely with the office or facilities manager to minimise disruption. Works are planned to vacant rooms during normal hours and busy areas can be dealt with outside normal working hours.
When an office is to be refurbished Selectaglaze will work closely with the design team to establish specifications, any preparatory works, interfaces with other trades and programmes. This route allows the secondary glazing to become an integral part of the overall design. Selectaglaze is a member of the Association of Interior Specialists. (AIS)

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