Secondary glazing in schools might not be top of the to-do list for educators, but it can reduce distractions and energy bills
Faced with tighter budgets and soaring energy costs, education leaders and decision makers probably don’t have secondary glazing in schools at the top of their to-do list. But an investment in installation now can lead to impressive results.
Selectaglaze’s secondary glazing can reduce heat loss by 75%- creating warmer environments and reduced energy bills as we head into the winter months.
Schools, colleges and universities are all constantly seeking to cut their carbon footprints and secondary glazing could be an extremely cost-effective, long term solution.
Keeping the noise down (and concentration levels up)
Educational premises are inevitably noisy, filled with lively learning children, and could benefit from optimal noise containment to prevent disturbing neighbouring classes.
Sports halls, breakout and music rooms are all key areas to consider slim and sympathetic secondary glazing units, which can reduce noise levels by up to 80%.
Blending in with surrounding environments
Secondary glazing is also a fantastic fit for busy city schools, colleges or universities that are surrounded by additional disruption and noise pollution.
Selectaglaze takes these circumstances into consideration when designing a secondary glazing solution, which will be tailored to meet the acoustic needs of the educational institution.
For example, if you’re in a busy city like Cambridge, what is the best solution? Well, the preferred choice is to use thicker glass in secondary glazing incorporating a special clear acoustic interlayer sandwiched between two panes of glass which help absorb and reduce noise transmittance.
The best of both worlds- heritage buildings with modern glazing
Older educational establishments that are Heritage and Listed Buildings are already wonderful places to learn. Secondary glazing can help improve their sound and heat insulation – while preserving their original character.
Units can be installed to match the existing interior windows, allowing for a discrete and noise-controlled solution that matches the existing aesthetic of the building.
Your secondary glazing provider should be able to advise you on everything from applying for consent to ensuring that all solutions are sympathetic to the original property.
Selectaglaze is especially passionate about maintaining heritage whilst modernising energy efficiency, with their own long history of experience working with listed buildings.
Balancing heating, risk and ventilation
Nobody wants a stereotypical ‘freezing in winter, sweltering in summer’ learning environment which can really hamper student concentration.
Draughty classrooms with cold spots caused by single glazed windows can cause discomfort and distract students from learning.
Secondary glazing will reduce these draughts and create a more even temperature across the room to improve comfort (and concentration) levels.
For warmer weather and ventilation, it’s important to decide which windows should be able to be opened, and whether restrictors are necessary. It’s important to carry out a risk assessment first – and your secondary glazing provider should be able to help you make your decisions.
Why wait until school’s out for summer to embrace secondary glazing?
We’ve covered the what, why and where of secondary glazing – but what about when? If you’re planning large refurbishment projects, of course it makes sense to wait for the longer holidays, like summer. However, a good secondary glazing company can be flexible in terms of timings.
Our experienced surveyors will gauge the scope of work with meticulous attention to detail, meaning installation is quick and easy, with minimal disruption. So we can work around your needs – before or after school, at weekends or half term. We are unique in installing products with a fast turnaround.
Contact Selectaglaze today to find out about how secondary glazing could benefit your educational facility.Â
