Secondary glazing enhances sustainability at heritage town hall

Braintree Town Hall is a Grade II* Listed building, which has benefited from the installation of bespoke secondary glazing from Selectaglaze

Developed on the site of a former cattle market, Braintree Town Hall has been in constant use and operation since its construction in 1926.

However, the original windows, which allowed cold air and heat to escape the building, were recently targeted for replacement to meet modern energy efficiency and sustainability standards.

With decades of experience working on Listed buildings, Selectaglaze was contracted to provide a sustainable solution.

Secondary glazing specification

The original specification was to fit timber secondary glazing that would complement the wood panelled rooms. When this proved too challenging, Selectaglaze developed a sample using aluminium secondary glazing with a timber grain finish. 

After gaining approval from Braintree Town Hall and the local Conservation Officer, the company supplied 20 vertical sliding units for installation throughout the building. 

The glazing package comprises a mixture of Series 20, a slim frame designed specifically for heritage buildings, and Series 25, a sturdier option for larger windows which can hold heavier glass. 

All the fenestration was finished in a timber grain effect. A colour matched oak print with raised wood grain was applied to match the building’s oak interior.

Reducing heat loss and noise pollution

Each unit was tailored to ensure a high level of airtightness; low emissivity glass was used to guarantee a U-value of 1.9.

According to Councillor Robert Mitchell, the Deputy Cabinet Member for Environment and Place, the estimated savings from installing secondary glazing in the Town Hall is at least 12% of the overall heating bill.

The glazing also provides effective sound proofing, blocking traffic noise from entering the building. A gap of 100mm between the primary and secondary glazing ensures noise levels of 45dB. 

Selectaglaze units are fully reversible, and accepted by most heritage agencies.

Contact:

Selectaglaze,
Alban Park,
Hatfield Road,
St. Albans,
Hertfordshire,
AL4 0JJ

Phone: 01727 837271

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