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Here, IQ Glass, which works alongside architects to bring ambitious coastal visions to life, runs through everything you need to bear in mind when opting for glazing in a coastal environment.
What are the key considerations when specifying glazing in coastal settings?
Wind-loading challenges
Wind resistance requirements frequently increase with coastal properties. Building Regulations Approved Document A details many aspects, including building height, average wind speeds and location. Since structural glazing bears weight both horizontally and vertically, calculating wind loads is essential for a precision-engineered solution that conforms with Building Regulations and endures the harshest of atmospheric pressures.
Salty air
Sea air often accelerates corrosion in certain metals. Aluminium frames and marine-grade coatings are the best choices when specifying glazing since they contain intrinsic properties that actively prevent salt corrosion.
Solar control glass
Solar control coatings are essential to reduce the solar gain when oversized glazing is to be used, especially in dwellings that will pull in south-facing views. These low-iron coating solutions maintain the light levels that pass through the glass and reduce the need for powered cooling within the property.
Bird protection glass
Coastal areas are typically home to many species of birds that form part of the marine ecosystem. It is widely known that hundreds of millions of varying bird species die annually due to buildings with reflective glass facades that they cannot identify as solid objects. Bird protection coatings are visible to birds yet almost invisible to the human eye.
The Moorings is a coastal Jersey property that opens up to 180º panoramic sea views. Vertical sash windows in this stunning Jersey home add an instant wow factor for an immersive seascape experience.
Fort le Crocq is a new build that features bespoke glazing throughout. This coastal dwelling in Guernsey included a slim frame sliding door system making up an entire wall of moving glass from floor to ceiling.
Rook Hill is a new build in Dorset that boasts double-height, gable-end glazing to maximise the views out. This contemporary home is flooded with natural light using unique gable-end configurations and rooflights connecting the property to its nestled coastal location.