Architects - and TV
shows - talk about using large scale glazing "to let the outside connect
with the inside" of a property, but one design professional has specified
a high-performance, triple glazed composite screen from a member of the Steel
Window Association to ensure the heat inside does not escape to the outside.
And similarly, the
stylish assembly was chosen to keep extraneous noise out of her beautifully
refurbished and extended North London home.
Steel Window Service and Supplies Limited
was approached by Hannah Mercedes-Carter to fabricate and install the 5.5 metre
long screen, featuring two double doorsets, for a rear extension to
her house in Hackney. The screen, which comprised five separate elements,
was produced using W40 sections with the proportions being optimised in terms
of appearance and the physical limits imposed by incorporating triple glazing.
Hannah, who works for
a leading London interior design practice commented: "For the original
loft conversion, we specified double glazed aluminium windows which look OK but
have tended to suffer from condensation, so I was determined to avoid that problem
with this addition of a large kitchen dining room extension to the rear of our
property.
"I was also keen
to use steel frames as they are in keeping with the style of the building which
dates from the 1930s, and chose to work with Steel Window Services and Supplies
because of my experience using them on an office project in London. The triple
glazing and frame make-up was also intended to prevent any noise intrusion from
outside the building; now they are installed, I realise just how seriously
sturdy and secure they are. We are very happy with the way they look and
perform."
The appearance of the
classic W40 section has been enhanced by the application of a RAL 7016
Anthracite Grey polyester powder paint finish over the standard galvanised
coating; complemented by matching trickle vents and satin chrome ironmongery.
The
frames are infilled with 28 mm thick triple glazed IG units using a mix of
clear toughened Planitherm One safety glass for the inner and outer leafs, and
a clear toughened Planilux safety glass centre pane. The cavities are filled
with 90% Krypton gas and super spacer bars. This achieves an impressive centre
pane U-value of 0.602 W/m2K while the installed screen
offers an overall U-value of 1.5W/m2k, along with the
required sound reduction properties.
Members of the Steel Window Association
are able to offer consultants, contractors and end clients a selection of
window and door types suitable for new-build as well as refurbishment projects,
and the ability to restore old metal frames for heritage work.
