Slowing down heat build-up through the roof glass skylights using window film
With soaring temperatures at a London leisure centre making life difficult and uncomfortable for visitors and staff alike, The Window Film Company was approached to deliver a manageable and effective solution.
The issue and project requirements
Dulwich Leisure Centre is the home of London’s oldest public swimming pool. Originally built in 1892, the beautiful building is home to a range of fitness facilities. The large, well-stocked gym is located in the same part of the building as the swimming pool, which is notable for its large expanse of glass rooflights.
The glazing runs the full length of the facility, providing a constant stream of natural light and an impressive original design feature. There was, however, a downside. The untreated glass allowed solar energy to stream into the building, slowly heating the facility each day. This was creating an uncomfortable environment for gym users, and a solution was sought.
The project installation and solution
As the issue became increasingly pressing, several options were explored, including reconfiguring the air conditioning systems. The Window Film Company was pleased to provide a more cost-effective and straightforward solution.
High Reflective Silver solar control film is a technologically advanced product that has been designed to reduce solar gain. The film reflects a percentage of the sun's energy before it can enter the property and raise the temperature. This slows the steady buildup of heat throughout the day, ensuring a moderate, comfortable internal temperature.
The film has also been designed to allow sufficient natural light to pass through the glass, so solar control can be achieved without sacrificing light levels or ambience.
Samples of the film were supplied to the client so the film could be observed in situ, and once the product choice was agreed, attention could turn to logistics.
The film was to be applied to more than 170 individual panes, each set into the roof well above ground level. After meeting with the leisure centre, architects, and a specialist access company, it was agreed that a large scaffold structure would be erected, providing the installation teams with safe access to the glass.
The extensive structure was fully boarded, creating a solid platform for one of The Window Film Company’s vastly experienced installation teams to install the film over a three-day period. The film was applied to the internal face of the glass, and once in place, would be effective immediately.
The finished project
At the end of what was a carefully planned and logistically challenging product, a total of 172 panes, 80 of which were more than 2 metres in length, had been treated and would immediately start working to prevent solar gain. The aesthetic finish was modern and stylish while also allowing for additional natural light. Solar control without loss of light.
Most importantly, those working or using the building's facilities were immediately able to enjoy a more moderate, comfortable indoor temperature. A modern solution that now works perfectly in tandem with one of London’s most historic leisure locations.
