This surreal manor house has been converted with the help of five bespoke Ridgeglaze rooflights from Glazing Vision, to provide a constant flow of natural daylight throughout this new renovation.
This secluded manor house in Mawgan Porth near Newquay involved a combination of newbuild and refurbishment to help create a special property with interlinked courtyards. Gardens and entertaining spaces that reconnected this house with its rural location.
A property which had lost much of its character due to previous poorquality extensions and renovations was in desperate need of an overhaul and some true care and attention to help provide the clients with a home they could cherish.
CSA Architects were entrusted with this mammoth task and working closely with builders P Chapman Construction they have been able to capture the true identity of the property and its marvellous countryside surroundings.
Manor House, Mawgan Porth From the point of arrival, the driveway leads guests to a grand entrance hall, that seamlessly links the original house and the new
buildings, whilst also connecting directly to the surrounding landscaped gardens.
Renovating the original house to provide guest accommodation that is both cosy and functional, the extensions have created large open plan living and dining spaces, a sitting room, games room, and functional boot room.
The use of 5 multi-part Ridgeglaze rooflights from Glazing Vision add an abundance of natural daylight throughout this new renovation. Providing the perfect addition to the apex roof line, allowing glazing on both returns, and in keeping with the juxtaposition of rustic and contemporary which is almost flaunted throughout the home.
Given the history of the building, double glazed rooflights were used with a low e coating for maximum thermal performance. The low e coating on the glass allows most of the visible light to pass through as well as the short-wave heat energy but blocks long wave energy from passing through.
This ensures the heat from inside the building is reflected, back into the room, and so heat losses are significantly reduced.
Throughout the property, unique characters have been retained but with carefully selected improvements to emphasise the potential within the property.
The rustic stone floor and extensive areas of Crittall-style glazing sit against the original stone wall of the house and form part of a rich palette of high-quality materials.
The use of reclaimed wood cladding, brick walls and oak beams are brought together around an exposed steel structure that define the main living spaces.
If you would like to discuss design considerations for an upcoming project, call Glazing Vision on 01379 658 300 or make an enquiry on our website: www.glazingvision.co.uk
2025: NEW YEAR, NEW CHALLENGES, NEW OPTIMISM?
After a turbulent year in 2024, what does 2025 hold in store? Safety and sustainability will surely continue to be the key topics, across all sectors. However, to what extent the industry will bounce back after the disruption caused by last year’s General Election and the subsequent re-alignments, remains to be seen.
There will, I’m sure, be many challenges ahead, in delivering the required level of building safety, and that some of the many improvements needed cannot happen overnight.
Glenigan, the trusted provider of UK and Republic of Ireland construction project data and market analysis, predicts that construction starts are set to bounce back over the next two years, driven by a combination of increased private sector confidence and public investment.
The report, published in November 2024 predicts a rise of 8% in underlying starts – projects valued under £100m – this year, that will increase to 10% in 2026.
So there’s some cause for optimism… Here at Daylighting Magazine, we head into the new year with a spring in our step! Our readership and our printed circulation are increasing and our Linked-In follower numbers are on the up. Proof, if we needed it, that the interest in daylighting and its associated benefits continues to grow.
In this issue, on the subject of safety, you can read about how our partner organisation The Rooflight Association, is tackling a specific issue relating to glass specification in overhead glazing applications. If you’re not aware of the potential dangers of inappropriate underspecification of inner glass panes, check out their article on page 8.
You’ll also find the usual mix of industry news and features, including some interesting case studies from Glazing Vision, A Plus Aluminium, Velux Commercial, Origin, Tuffx and Hambleside Danelaw
And finally, on the subject of challenges, I’ll be enjoying some new ones myself in 2025. This will be my last issue as editor of Daylighting Magazine. A sad day for me in some respects, as this publication has been a big part of my working life for many years – but I know it’s in safe hands with the great team at Constructive Media… and I’ll be continuing to put my ‘five eggs in’ as an independent editorial consultant, for the foreseeable.
If you have any issues you’d like to raise or draw attention to in a future issue of Daylighting Magazine, please email us at: daylighting@constructivemedia.co.uk
Paul Bennett - Editor
A PLUS ALUMINIUM helps transform 1930s bungalow
Windows and doors from A Plus Aluminium have been used in the transformation of a two-bedroom 1930s bungalow into a modern family home.
When Kate and Liam bought a rundown bungalow in a peaceful area of Harpenden, they were keen to make the most of the plot. “The bungalow was built in the 1930s and needed love.
There were two bedrooms at the front, a very small and tired kitchen and a conservatory on the back which needed a lot of work,” says Kate. “Yet, it had loads of potential.
“We had a vision for the Scandinavian look we wanted to achieve, with lots of clean lines and natural light. It’s just us, our eightyear-old son and dog, Roxy; so we were looking for a three-bed family home and an open plan kitchen/ diner, as well as a utility room and a snug.”
The project began onsite in June 2023. The approved scheme retains the essence of the bungalow but increases the floor space from 1,000sqft to 2300sqft, with a single storey extension offering much needed additional space. Other than three internal walls everything else was demolished. The couple used brick and block for the single storey extension and put in a steel support frame for the roof and rear glazing.
Increasing Light Levels
Natural light was essential for achieving the couple’s preferred Scandinavian interior design style with a mid-century twist.
“The house is north facing so the glazing needed to be right.
The feature window in the open plan hallway and lovely wide windows in the kitchen and window seat let in so much natural light, so we never feel it is dark.”
The couple also opted for sliding doors over bi-folds for an uninterrupted view of the garden. “When you walk into the house, you can immediately see straight through to the garden.” They also provide a stylish entrance to the balcony off the master suite.
Aluminium windows and doors
Kate and Liam chose aluminium windows and doors for their quality, durability and stylish appearance. The PlusGlide 47 sliding doors, Crown flush casement windows and Dualframe 75 entrance doors were supplied by trade fabricator, A Plus Aluminium and fitted by KMC Windows.
“It was very easy dealing with A Plus Aluminium,” continues Kate. “They were very thorough and picked up on things that needed to be adjusted – for example, they spotted that the sliding doors in the bedroom were very low. We were able to make a quick adjustment and can now access our amazing balcony with ease; it works brilliantly.”
The aluminium frames are powder coated Anthracite Grey to complement the untreated Western
and
The contemporary hardware is subtle and blends perfectly with the frames.
Light and Love
The family moved in in June 2024, and they are thrilled with the transformation. “We are such foodies that we always gravitate to the kitchen. It’s our family space and we love it,” says Kate. “We also enjoy using the snug. It’s a cosy space which, while it has a lovely big picture window, it’s a small enough room to hunker down in!”
“Despite the architect’s early concerns about light, the house is filled with natural light.
The windows above the front door are particularly special – they let in the early morning light which floods the entrance hall and landing, and the evening light comes through the roof windows and reflects the glass pendant all around the landing, which is stunning. The house gives us the lifestyle we wanted, and there is a real feeling of joy throughout.”
www.aplusaluminium.co.uk 01923 225 855
Email: sales@aplusaluminium.co.uk
Red Cedar
zinc cladding, and contrast with the white render.
OVERHEAD GLAZING: ALWAYS PUT SAFETY FIRST WITH A LAMINATED INNER PANE
By
The Rooflight Association - the voice of the UK’s Rooflight Industry
Have you heard alarming stories about rooflight glazing spontaneously shattering and putting building occupants at risk? Unfortunately, the reports are genuine – but there’s a simple way of ensuring this can never happen to a rooflight that you specify or install.
Here at The Rooflight Association, as the trade association representing the UK’s rooflight industry, we’ve been aware of this issue and working to support a change in the legislation surrounding rooflight safety, for a number of years. With the hugely increasing popularity of rooflights in residential and other types of property, incidences like these seem to be increasing in number and gaining coverage on social media and other sources.
In 2025, we are stepping up our campaign, to put the record straight – and to put safety first.
Why do some rooflights shatter spontaneously?
Despite its name, toughened glass is known to fracture, due to the unstable nature of nickel sulphide ‘inclusions’ present in the material. The risk of breakage is relatively low, but unpredictable - it could occur within weeks or years of manufacture, if at all.
Other causes of glass failure are impact, surface scratches, rapid temperature changes, other inclusions such as brick particles or damage caused by weld spatter, grinding dust, or during transit.
The simple and 100% effective way to remove any risk from falling glass debris
There is only one way to effectively eliminate the risk of rooflights shattering and putting building occupants at risk from falling glass: to ensure that laminated glass is used for the inner pane. This is why our recommendation is that it should be considered as the first choice, for any application.
Laminated glass is manufactured by bonding two panes of glass with an interlayer (typically polyvinyl butyral - PVB or for higher strength
applications, ionoplast material) which holds the glass together, even when broken.
The interlayer, depending on thickness, material, pane size, and method of retention in the frame, may also have the ability to hold a load lying on the glass, preventing falls from height through the rooflight.
What do the legislators say?
British Standards define that inner panes must always be laminated wherever rooflights are more than 5 metres above floor level or are located over water (e.g. swimming pools). The standards do set out other circumstances and locations when a toughened inner pane can be used, ‘subject to satisfactory risk assessment’. Guidance on how to go about this can be found in a document published by CIRIA (Construction Industry Research and Information Association); document C632 ‘Guidance on Glazing at Height’.
Therefore the cost, time and inconvenience of carrying out a risk assessment and having it verified must be weighed against any additional cost incurred by specifying a laminated inner pane. Furthermore, even following a fully verified risk assessment, there still remains a risk if a laminated inner pane is not specified.
The Rooflight Association is in favour of British Standards being updated to remove the option for monolithic toughened glass to be used for the inner pane of any overhead glazing, irrespective of height or location (except for over restricted spaces that are only accessed for maintenance and where additional safety precautions are in place to mitigate the risk).
Be informed: be safe
Rooflight glazing is a complex subject, covering many different considerations, including safety to building occupants and roof workers, light transmission, thermal and acoustic properties and other factors.
At The Rooflight Association, our Technical Committee brings together leading experts from across the rooflight industry, to address these topics, inform legislators and provide impartial information for specifiers, installers and building owners, through a series of freely available specification guides.
On the subject safety in respect of glass rooflights, our strong recommendation is that laminated glass should always be the first choice for inner panes. You can find out more, by downloading our recently updated NTD14 Glass Rooflights Specification Guide which covers this topic in detail.
www.rooflightassociation.org
Having recognised the challenges faced by designers and specifiers when selecting the best performing rooflights, we have simplified the process. By creating two comprehensive system approaches for Zenon, we have aligned key performance considerations to suit the needs of individual projects, making choosing Zenon easier than ever.
BRINGING DAYLIGHT AND FRESH AIR
to the Royal Veterinary College with VELUX Commercial
The Royal Veterinary College (RVC), the longest-established veterinary school in England, recently inaugurated a new state-of-the-art building designed to support world-leading scientific and clinical training.
Located in London, this facility is a key component in advancing educational and research capabilities. One of the building's standout features is its strategic use of daylight and fresh air, achieved through the installation of Longlight skylights by VELUX Commercial, offering a transformative experience for students, staff, and visitors alike.
A Modern Design for Learning and Innovation
The RVC's new building serves as a vital public gateway, balancing control with a welcoming atmosphere while providing access to sensitive clinical areas. With a design that emphasizes campus cohesion, wayfinding, and high-quality social spaces, the building fosters innovative ways of learning, researching, and working.
The facility is centered around a central concourse that integrates seamlessly with the surrounding campus, offering continuity and ease of navigation for users.
Spread over three floors, the building includes diverse functional areas such as laboratories, teaching spaces, research centers, lecture theatres, and a library.
These spaces are all connected by the central concourse, which creates a "campus street" feel.
Externally, a precast colonnade adds a rhythmic pattern of light and shade, contributing to the building's aesthetic and functional goals by providing solar shading and privacy.
VELUX Modular Skylights: Flooding Spaces with Natural Light
At the heart of the building’s interior are the 104 Longlight modules installed by VELUX Commercial. These modular skylights, arranged in 11 rows, are placed strategically above central areas and teaching spaces. Not only do they enhance the modern aesthetic of the building, but they also flood the interior with natural light, creating a bright and welcoming environment for all occupants.
Natural daylight is essential in educational settings, where it has been shown to improve well-being, boost productivity, and enhance learning outcomes.
The skylights at the RVC reduce the need for artificial lighting, contributing to the building's energy efficiency while fostering a positive, stimulating environment for students and staff alike.
Fresh Air and Enhanced Safety with Venting Modules
In addition to daylight, fresh air plays a crucial role in creating an optimal environment. Many of the Longlight skylights installed at the RVC include venting modules, which allow for natural ventilation. This improves indoor air quality, an essential factor in a teaching and research environment where concentration and comfort are paramount. Fresh air circulation can help reduce pollutants, regulate temperature, and improve overall health and cognitive performance for building occupants.
From a safety perspective, the venting modules also include smoke ventilation capabilities. In the event of a fire, these skylights automatically open, allowing smoke and heat to escape, protecting both lives and property. This dual functionality makes VELUX Modular Skylights not just an aesthetic choice, but a practical one as well.
Flexibility and Future-Ready Design
The new facility at the Royal Veterinary College was designed with flexibility in mind, allowing the building to adapt to changing curricula and technological advancements in research and education. The integration of VELUX Modular Skylights is a key element in this forward-thinking design. By providing natural light, fresh air, and smoke ventilation, these skylights contribute to a versatile and sustainable environment that meets the evolving needs of modern education and research.
The Royal Veterinary College’s new facility is a perfect example of how modern architecture can blend form and function to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also promote well-being, safety, and productivity.
The integration of VELUX Commercial's Longlight skylights has transformed the building’s atmosphere, providing natural light and fresh air while enhancing its overall aesthetic and safety features.
This project exemplifies how daylighting solutions can support educational and research environments, helping institutions like the RVC continue to lead in their field.
If you’re planning a project that could benefit from daylighting and fresh air, explore the possibilities with VELUX Commercial today.
For more information please visit: www.commercial.velux.co.uk
YOUR HOME your design, your build
The National Self Build & Renovation Centre (NSBRC) is the UK'S only permanent venue for independent homebuilding advice & support.
Established in 2007, we have helped a quarter of a million visitors build their own dream home or extend and improve existing properties.
Located on J16 of the M4, Swindon, our unique venue, covering 67,000ft2, features several full-size houses, interactive educational zones – incorporating many life-size exhibits – and a huge ‘Trade Village’ with over 200 specialist exhibitors, showcasing the very best products and technologies.
Experts on our free helpdesk (staffed Wednesday to Sunday) are here to discuss visitors plans and ideas, share their experience, and signpost people to relevant professionals and suppliers who can help make their project a success.
Aside from being open six days a week, we produce a full calendar of shows, themed workshops and courses covering key topics, from plot finding and planning to funding and heating options.
We run several ‘eco’ events including our popular Eco Workshops and our Passivhaus Workshop’s produced in partnership with the Passivhaus Trust.
The NSBRC was named Wiltshire’s small business of the year in 2017 and in the same year won a Build It award for Outstanding Contribution to Self Build. In 2021 we won the Employee Ownership Association’s award for Business Resilience following our response to the pandemic.
We believe people deserve better, sustainable homes. We help achieve this by delivering our three key promises:
• We’ll inspire you by showcasing the very best building methods, trends and technologies.
• We’ll inform you with our range of shows, workshops, courses and educational tours.
• We’ll always offer impartial advice you can trust.
Did you know?
In November 2014 a new company was formed to operate the National Self Build & Renovation Centre. This business (The Homebuilding Centre Limited) is employee owned. Our team of employee-owners have a genuine stake in the business via our ‘hybrid’ ownership model.
We have a combination of shares held by our Employee Ownership Trust (our largest share-holder), direct share-holders (all held by employees) and a Share Incentive Plan.
This model allows us to reward our team well, and to share part of our profit if we collectively feel we want to. More importantly, perhaps, the culture that employee-ownership inevitably brings, allows us to work
with openness and transparency, sharing ideas and feedback in a caring environment. We are passionate about providing the best experience for our visitors, exhibitors and conferencing guests.
We were thrilled to receive our 500th Google review in April 2023, and we are currently averaging a score of 4.7/5, which we hope reflects the experience that people enjoy with us.
The NSBRC is open six days a week for visitors. Our standard opening hours are: Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00am - 17:30pm • Sunday: 10:00am - 16:30pm • www.nsbrc.co.uk
COUNTRYSIDE RETREAT A modern
Ben Brocklesby, Director at Origin, the UK’s leading manufacturer of aluminium windows and doors, discusses one of the company’s latest projects to transform a rundown annex into a luxurious pool house.
The project brief
Set deep in the Hampshire countryside, this charming traditional property was purchased by its owners in 2022. Surrounded by grounds and outbuildings, the homeowners had grand plans to expand their space by transforming an annex and neglected pool into a modern new living area for relaxing and entertaining.
The design challenge
The owners wanted to both complement and contrast the annex with the existing traditional family home. This meant the project presented a unique challenge to seamlessly integrate contemporary design into a picturesque countryside setting.
Choosing
the right fenestration
The architects tasked with this delicate balancing act sought a fenestration system that would embody the desired clean lines and minimalist profile aesthetic, without jarring with the traditional look of the main house.
Origin's Soho collection, with its signature slim sightlines and sleek steel-look finish, emerged as the ideal solution.
The Soho collection, inspired by one of Manhattan’s most chic and historic neighbourhoods, encompasses external doors, windows, and internal doors, making it the perfect choice to become the cornerstone of the annex's design.
Creating a showstopping entrance
The selection of external doors was crucial. Chosen was a combination of bi-folding, French and single doors, all from Origin’s Soho collection. These doors, with their
elegant hardware and minimalist profiles, not only provided seamless access between the garden and the indoor space, but also served as striking architectural features.
The slim sightlines of just 36mm further enhanced the connection to the outdoors by framing the picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
Not only do they look exceptional, but they offer superior thermal efficiency too. Designed to beat current building regulations, the Soho External Door can achieve U-Values as low as 0.78W/m2K. They are also PAS24 certified, ensuring homes remain safe and secure.
Maximising natural light
Doors weren’t the only consideration, with windows also a key part of this project to maximise natural light. Whilst the doors make a statement on their own, the addition of a gable window to sit above the already impressive set of doors added to the striking design. Featuring Origin’s OW-80 gable window with bars, the window mimics the look of the doors below whilst allowing light to flood into the annex from every angle to create a bright and airy space.
Creating a seamless interior
As well as acting as a pool house, the family wanted the annex to serve as a sanctuary for their family and friends to stay in when they visited. The build also included adding a kitchenette and lounge area, two bedrooms and a bathroom. Internally, the Soho aesthetic continued with Origin’s internal doors (OI-30) adding to the theme of understated elegance.
The OI-30’s clean lines and contemporary aesthetic complemented the minimalist interior design, creating a flow and sense of openness throughout the property.
The completed project
The completed annex is a testament to the successful integration of modern design principles within a traditional setting. The use of Origin's Soho collection, with its slim sightlines, sought-after steel look aesthetic, and maximum glazing, resulted in a space that is both visually stunning and functionally unique. The project demonstrates the power of thoughtful product selection and considered design in creating a truly exceptional living space.
Find out more about Origin’s Soho collection: www.originglobal.com/collections/soho
Letting the light in:
ROOFLIGHT INNOVATIONS AND HEATED GLASS SOLUTIONS
Roof glazing is ever-growing in popularity, with a wide array of design solutions available to suit self-builds, extensions, loft conversions, and even basement projects. Adding a rooflight floods the space beneath with natural light. Here, Paul Higgins, commercial director at TuffX, explores rooflights in detail, covering everything from energy efficiency and installation advice to revolutionary heated solutions.
Daylight savings
Rooflights have become a staple in single-story extension plans and a desirable characteristic often incorporated into new builds. Creating opportunities for daylight to enter a space directly through the roof also reduces the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours, leading to lower energy consumption and bills, all whilst creating a connection with the outdoors and offering low maintenance.
Letting natural daylight flood in significantly impacts the feel of the room, and the rooflight itself can become an architectural feature around which interior fixtures and fittings can be designed around.
For example, positioning a kitchen island beneath a rooflight of the same size creates a dramatic centrepiece on both the floorplan and ceiling.
Alternatively, walk-on roof lights, designed to be fitted internally or externally, are ideal for adding a functional and aesthetically appealing glazed feature in basement conversions or roof terraces.
Energy efficiency
When properly designed and installed, roof windows can improve a property's thermal performance, reducing energy consumption and heating costs.
TuffX’s high-quality roof windows feature double or triple glazing to minimise heat transfer, improve energy efficiency, and protect against temperature extremes.
Paul Higgins, Commercial Director - TuffX
Beyond the glass itself, the frame specification is another key consideration. Insulating frames are specifically designed to deliver peak insulation, working alongside the glazing to keep the property’s indoor environment warm in winter and cool in summer.
Together, the glazing and insulating frame supports the reduction of heat loss during the winter and limit heat gain throughout the summer. The thermal performance of the system is also important.
With large amounts of glass, the risk of overheating can be a concern, but with the addition of solar control glass coatings and/ or shading methods, this can be minimised.
Looking at the technical data, Tuffx’s double-glazed toughened safety glass roof lights have a centre pane U-value of 1.2, and the triple-glazed option has a U-value of 0.7, which is 30% more than roof lights with standard double-glazing and also offers the enhanced benefit of increased sound reduction.
Ease of installation
Roof windows require precise installation to ensure proper integration into the roof structure fit, weatherproofing, insulation and, therefore, optimal performance. However, the installation process is simple with the right tools and a quality product to hand.
All Tuffx Infinity rooflights are as a complete unit, ready for installers to drop in and secure into place hassle-free. In preparation for the installation, a timber upstand needs to be built with a minimum pitch of 5° to allow water to run off the rooflight when in place. Then, a thick bead of silicone is applied around on top of the upstand.
Next, the flat, powder-coated aluminium frame can be positioned over the top and sides of the upstand, then pre-drill fixing holes through the timber/aluminium upstand at 100mm from each corner, then at regular intervals. The final step is adding the fixing screws with horseshoe packers and finishing caps around the frame to keep it in place.
Heated glass solutions
Opening up even more possibilities with roof glazing, GLOW heated glass infill panels are also now available from Tuffx, meaning that the roof glazing will not only
illuminate the space throughout the day but also provide a radiant heat source for the space in the colder months, enabling both natural daylight and thermal comfort to be enhanced simultaneously.
Ideal for high traffic, such as a kitchen or family room/communal area, the thermostatically controlled glass comprises a sealed unit layered with an intelligent, invisible conductive coating that is electrically heated to convert electric power into radiant heat. Heated glass also dramatically reduces condensation, preserving uninterrupted sky views and potentially contributing to a healthier indoor environment. Plus, no ongoing maintenance is required, providing a hassle-free supplementary heating solution.
For further information about Tuffx’s Infinity range of rooflights, visit tuffxglass.co.uk
SMURFITT KAPPA
Norwich
Hambleside Danelaw recently collaborated with refurbishment specialist, Weatherproofing Advisors to provide Zenon GRP rooflights at Smurfitt Kappa in Norwich. Profiled to match their metal envelope supply chain partner, Joris Ide, the strip and re-sheet resulted in a revitalised roof enhancing the operational reliability and safety standards of the global corrugated sheet board supplier.
The Norwich hub of Smurfitt Kappa is a significant cog in their UK operations, operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Located on Fishergate Street in the heart of the cathedral city, it occupies an expansive footprint housing state of the art machinery and is a vital part of their enterprise. It was imperative that the location could continue operating while the roofing refurbishment was underway.
As a result of a comprehensive condition report, the 11,500m² roof
was found to be well beyond its service life, resulting in severe water ingress and creating significant disruption to the operations of the building.
Weatherproofing Advisors, who specialise in the maintenance and refurbishment of roofing and cladding both regionally and nationally, were involved from an early stage in the process due to their well-earned reputation for providing unparalleled levels of service.
Whilst the whole project entailed multifaceted roofing systems, the primary scope of works was to remove the existing roof and replace with a new, metal built-up system incorporating GRP rooflights; all while ensuring the factory’s operations remained uninterrupted.
The benefits of natural daylight in the built environment are well documented. During daylight hours, it is an unlimited free resource, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting.
This reduces electrical energy consumption, in turn decreasing CO2 emissions and the operational carbon of the building. The building occupants also gain the health and wellbeing benefits associated with natural daylight. The diffused nature of daylight from GRP prevents glare and localised heat build-up, critical in a manufacturing environment where there may be many reflective surfaces.
This project incorporated a triple skin assembly with a weather sheet of Zenon Evolution LC1. Zenon Evolution is Hambleside Danelaw’s low carbon rooflight product.
By using advanced manufacturing reinforcement technology and continuous product development, we have been able reduce the amount of resin used during manufacture compared with our traditionally reinforced Zenon Pro range. The result is a thinner, lighter product with exceptional strength that exceeds the requirements of the industry standard non-fragility testing, withstanding impacts of more than twice the force needed to pass the test.
The lower resin to glass ratio also reduces the embodied carbon content when compared to traditionally reinforced products with similar performance.
Ben Orton, Service Centre Manager at Weatherproofing Advisor’s London office quoted “the excellent service levels along with a quality product are the reasons that Hambleside Danelaw continue to be a trusted member of our supply chain”.
The project has shown the effectiveness of a collaborative supply chain working well together providing Smurfit Kappa Norwich with an updated facility which will benefit from long-term security and operational stability.
To learn more about the range of Zenon rooflight solutions from Hambleside Danelaw, get in touch with the team on 01327 701920 or fill in the contact form on our website: www.hambleside-danelaw.co.uk/
LIGHT & FRESH AIR
Tracey Jackson from Howells Patent Glazing explains the benefits of roof lights as a practical solution for transforming homes into better, fresher, and healthier living spaces.
Extensions remain a popular choice for home improvers whether it’s to the rear or to the side, single or two storeys, or up into the loft. Increasing the square footage adds value, but it is also a great way to enhance the property and living space within. A successful extension will provide extra living space, improve flow, and will often open the house up to the garden, above all, it must have plenty of natural light.
Boosting Natural Light Levels
Light needs to pour into the new build space and reach deep into the floorplan. Yet it isn’t as simple as adding more windows or increasing the expanse of glazing. To comply with Building Regulations a new build extension must comply with Part L - conservation of fuel and power.
Approved Document L volume 1:
Dwellings suggests that the total area of windows, roof windows and doors in extensions does not exceed 25% of the floor area of the extension.
While areas of glazing over 25% may be permitted under certain circumstances, the regulations suggest that where practical, either the U-value of the window/s should be improved or other compensating
measures be applied e.g., more insulation in the roof, upgrading the boiler or replacing existing windows with higher performance ones, all of which will improve the energy efficiency of the home and offset the resulting heat loss from the glazed areas in the extension.
But this comes with added expense. Homeowners, therefore, will be asking their architect for the best, most efficient way of bringing natural light into their home.
More Natural Light
Studies show that rooflights provide at least twice as much light than a similar sized vertical window and three times as much as a same sized dormer window. This makes them an attractive proposition for those designing and building an extension.
At a time when we are more conscious of our mental and physical wellbeing, there is growing appreciation for the natural world and its benefits. Natural light is one such advantage. It is also hugely beneficial for physical and psychological well-being –improving focus, productivity and engagement.
There are financial rewards too. A building with high levels of natural light can help keep energy costs down by reducing demand for expensive artificial light.
A Breath of Fresh Air Ventilation is another important consideration when designing a home or extension. Fresh air is as important as natural light in aiding our well-being.
Once again, rooflights provide a practical solution. Some rooflight manufacturers offer vented options which allow for controlled, natural ventilation. These opening vents are operated using motors which are often hidden from view, and do not impede the aesthetics.
Controls vary from a simple open/ close switch to remote controls and digital control panels.
Some offer a built-in external rain sensor and internal thermostat –essential with our unpredictable weather!
Howells Patent Glazing is an established manufacturer of roof glazing systems with more than 50 years’ experience supplying to the domestic and commercial markets. It is a member of the Rooflight Association.
www.howellsglazing.co.uk
Email: info@howellsglazing.co.uk
Tel: 01384 820060
Louvre Pyramid, Paris
In this regular feature we indulge ourselves and our readers with images of daylighting projects throughout the years that simply deserve a double page photograph...
Designed by ChineseAmerican architect I.M. Pei and completed in 1989, The Louvre Pyramid is a large glass-and-metal structure which has become a landmark of Paris.
Situated in the main courtyard (Cour Napoléon) of the Louvre Palace, it is surrounded by three smaller pyramids.
The large pyramid serves as the main entrance to the Louvre Museum, allowing daylight to the underground visitors hall, while also allowing sight lines of the palace to visitors in the hall, and through access galleries to the different wings of the palace.
Constructed entirely of triangular and rhombic glass panes with a metal support structure, it reaches a height of 21.6 metres. Its square base has sides of 34 metres and a base surface area of 1,000 square metres.
MEET THE ROOFLIGHT ASSOCIATION AT THE FIT SHOW 2025
The Rooflight Association has announced that it will be exhibiting for the first time at this year’s FIT Show at NEC Birmingham, 29th April – 1st May 2025.
The Rooflight Association is ‘the voice of the UK’s rooflight industry’ and represents members spanning the complete supply chain: installers, contractors, distributors, specifiers, consultants and of course, rooflight manufacturers.
Visitors to the show will have the opportunity to find out more about Rooflight Association membership, as well as its current work and future plans. Copies of the Association’s comprehensive Membership Prospectus entitled ‘Tools to Build a Brighter Future’ will be available on the stand, giving full details for prospective members.
Rooflight Association Marketing Chair Jon Shooter said: “We’re delighted to confirm our presence at this year’s FIT Show. This event provides a great opportunity for us to continue building new relationships within the roofing sector and to highlight the benefits of membership for installers and contractors.
We look forward to welcoming visitors to our stand. There will be lots to talk about ! Further details will be released on social media in the coming weeks.
Rooflight Association member companies Brett Martin Daylight Systems and Whitesales will also be exhibiting at the show.
For more information about The Rooflight Association’s missions and membership benefits, visit: https://rooflightassociation.org/
Register now for your FREE ticket
THE IMPORTANCE OF LOW U-VALUE ROOFLIGHTS
U-values measure how well materials conduct heat, with lower values indicating better insulation. This is crucial for rooflights, which can be a major source of heat loss.
CRL’s triple-glazed flat rooflights, with a U-value of 0.6, excel in energy efficiency. These rooflights minimise heat loss, especially in winter, reducing reliance on heating systems and lowering energy bills. In summer, they also limit heat absorption, ensuring your home stays cool while letting in plenty of natural light.
CRL offers a wide range of sizes, from 400mm x 400mm to 1500mm x 3000mm, starting at £170 (inc. VAT). With quick delivery (1-5 working days), you can easily install energy-efficient rooflights that enhance your home’s comfort and sustainability.
Derek and Danny CRL Directors, advise checking U-values before purchasing rooflights. If a supplier doesn't display this information, it should raise a red flag.
Key Benefits of Low U-Value Rooflights:
• Reduced Energy Consumption: Minimise heat loss, reducing energy bills.
• Improved Comfort: Maintain warmth in winter, keeping homes cozy.
• Increased Property Value: Energy-efficient homes attract higher value.
• Environmental Benefits: Reduce your carbon footprint.
CRL, a family-owned business based in Dorset, is dedicated to your satisfaction. Our rooflights are designed to provide optimal thermal performance, helping you save money and create a more comfortable, eco-friendly living space.
Visit www.crlonline.co or call 01202 802111 to learn more.
A NEW CHALLENGE FOR AN OLD EDITOR
It’s a little-known fact that our outgoing editor Paul Bennett is also the bass guitarist in prog rock band, TT Transmission.
It’s a little-known fact that our outgoing editor Paul Bennett is also the bass guitarist in prog rock band, TT Transmission.
Originally formed to play college and club gigs in the late 70s, the band has recently re-formed and will next be performing at The Con Club, Lewes, East Sussex on Friday 11th April 2025.
Paul said: “The band getting back together, actually came about as a result of my daylighting industry connections. A couple of years ago, I mis-addressed an email to a client with a similar name to one of my old band members, who I’d not had contact with for many years. That re-ignited the contact between old friends, after which the re-union and subsequent gigs were planned.”
Paul pointed out that he will be continuing to service his B2B clients: “The band is for fun and doesn’t impact my working life,…much!” he said.
Tickets for the performance are available here: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/tt-transmission
DAYLIGHTING is published by: Constructive Media Ltd Hornbeam Suite Mamhilad House Mamhilad Park Estate Pontypool NP4 0HZ
Tel: +44 (0)1495 239 962
WEBSITE www.daylightingmag.co.uk
EDITOR Paul Bennett paul@daylightingmag.co.uk Mobile: 07900 895110
SALES AND EDITORIAL: Roger Whittington daylighting@constructivemedia.co.uk Tel: 01495 239 962
Daylighting is available by email, free of charge to subscribers, by logging on at: www.daylightingmag.co.uk or get in touch to request a print version
Free access is also available via our website and our social media channels.
Our readership is predominantly UK architects, specifiers, contractors, consultants and roofing professionals.
While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of content, the publisher does not accept liability for errors. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher.
This publication contains editorial photographs which may have been supplied and paid for by suppliers.
Rooflight installers, contractors, manufacturers, specifiers, distributors, consultants: find out how RA membership can enhance your business.
Find out more and download our Membership Prospectus now.
