Environmental Performance Considerations when Selecting Glazing

Glazing is usually one of the most expensive packages within the construction process. It is therefore essential that all glazing requirements are considered and appropriate glazing specified to secure best value.

The main issues to consider with glazing are:

1. Acoustic levels
2. Daylighting Levels
3. Solar Heating
4. Thermal Efficiency

Acoustic Glazing 

To meet acoustic requirements set out in BS8233:2014 acoustic glazing is often specified.

Sound frequencies travelling through a double glazed system can vibrate from one pane of glass to the other increasing the sound levels detected within the room. Acoustic glazing can be achieved through a combination of glass thickness and an interlayer which acts as a damper and reduces the sound energy created within the panes of glass

Daylighting

Glazing with a high daylight transmittance level helps reduce the use of artificial lighting and therefore saves energy, provides a good view of the outside space and improves the health and wellbeing for occupants.

Solar Control Glazing

Solar Control Glazing allows sunlight to pass through a window or façade while radiating and reflecting away a large degree of the sun’s heat. This allows the daylighting levels within the space to remain as high as possible whilst preventing overheating.

Thermally Insulating Glass

Large areas of glazing can impact the thermal efficiency of the building. To help the building achieve Part L of the Building Regulation, low emissivity glazing should be specified. The coating allows heat and light from outside the building to pass through the glass, but stops it from escaping back out through the window.