Windows are an important architectural element of many traditional libraries but being single glazed they provide minimal thermal insulation and poor acoustics.

Due to technological and design advances in recent years, Secondary glazing now provides an attractive and practical solution to these issues, particularly for Listed buildings.

A secondary window is a reversible adaptation and with sensitive design it can provide a sympathetic addition to any building. This will offer far more significant noise insulation than standard double glazed units and the use of thermally efficient glass will reduce heat loss by more than half, and so meet insulation levels set out in Part L of the Building Regulations.

Security of collections is also becoming more important and secondary glazing accredited to Secured by Design or to Loss Prevention standards will provide a significant but discrete barrier.

Selectaglaze, the UK’s leading secondary glazing specialist, is playing an important role in preserving our architectural heritage and four libraries have recently benefited greatly from the introduction of secondary glazing to enhance energy efficiency and improve noise insulation.

To learn more about these projects, please visit www.selectaglaze.co.uk