STRUCTURAL GLASS DESIGN LTD
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Frequently Asked Questions
GETTING STARTED
What information do you need for a quotation?
We can provide a quotation for rooflights or structural glass floors from your sizes.
For more complex designs, it helps to supply:
- architectural drawings
- approximate sizes
- project location
- photos where available
- loading requirements
- desired finish/specification
Early-stage concept discussions are also welcomed.
What is the process for obtaining a quote?
- Email or phone us with as much information as you have for your project.
- We’ll email a no obligation quote back to you.
- If you want to go ahead with the quote, just click the “Accept” button. If you would like to discuss your project further, just get in touch.
Can I send drawings for review?
Whether you are planning a basement extension, walk-on rooflight, glass floor or complex structural glazing installation, our technical team can help develop a bespoke solution for your project.
Request a quotation or send your drawings for review today.
GOOD TO KNOW
Do you provide drawings & structural calculations?
Yes, upon request. Structural glass projects are normally supported by CAD drawings and engineering calculations and technical specifications to ensure compliance with relevant building regulations and loading standards.
What are your lead times?
Lead times vary depending on:
- project complexity
- glass specification
- manufacturing requirements
- site conditions
Typical projects can range from several weeks to a few months from design approval to installation.
If you’re in a hurry, let us know so that we can try to accomodate your timeframe.
What maintenance does structural glass require?
Structural glass requires relatively little maintenance. Regular cleaning and periodic inspection of any seals, drainage systems and supporting components will help ensure long-term performance.
Do you install throughout the UK?
Yes. Structural glass systems can be supplied and installed throughout the UK, including Scottish Islands & Ireland,with selected projects completed internationally.
STRUCTURAL GLASS PRODUCTS
What is Structural Glass
Structural glass is specially engineered glass designed to act as a load-bearing architectural element rather than simply glazing. It can be used in floors, rooflights, bridges, balustrades and frameless glazed structures where strength, safety and minimal visual framing are essential.
Can structural glass be walked on safely?
Yes. Walk-on structural glass is designed using multiple layers of toughened and laminated glass to safely withstand foot traffic. Systems are engineered to meet specific loading requirements for residential, commercial or public applications. We even manufacture drive-on structural glass.
What is a walk-on Rooflight?
walk-on rooflight is a structural glass rooflight designed to be safely walked over while allowing natural light into spaces below, such as basements or lower-ground extensions. They are commonly installed in terraces, courtyards and landscaped areas.
How thick is walk-on glass?
The thickness depends on:
- the span
- loading requirements
- installation type
- supporting structure
Most walk-on glazing systems use multi-layer laminated toughened glass constructions, often ranging from approximately 34mm to 60mm+ overall thickness depending on specification.
How much weight can structural glass hold?
Structural glass can support substantial loads when correctly engineered. Load capacity depends on:
- glass specification
- panel size
- support conditions
- intended use
Systems can be designed for:
- residential foot traffic
- commercial pedestrian loading
- public spaces
- vehicular loading for drive-on rooflights
Each project is structurally calculated individually.
Can cars drive on structural glass?
Yes. Drive-on structural glass systems can be engineered for vehicular loading, including domestic driveways and selected commercial applications. These systems use specially engineered laminated glass assemblies and supporting structures designed for heavy loads.
Is walk-on glass slippery when wet?
Walk-on glass can incorporate anti-slip finishes to improve safety in wet conditions. Options include:
- ceramic frit patterns
- sandblast finishes
- anti-slip coatings
The appropriate finish depends on the location and intended use.
What is the difference between toughened & laminated glass?
Toughened Glass
Heat-treated for increased strength and impact resistance.
Laminated Glass
Multiple glass layers bonded together with interlayers for safety and structural integrity.
Structural glazing systems often combine both toughened and laminated glass for maximum performance and safety.
Are structural glass rooflights suitable for basements?
Yes. Walk-on rooflights are widely used in basement extensions to maximise natural daylight into lower-ground spaces while maintaining usable external surfaces above.
Do you manufacture bespoke structural glass systems?
Yes. Structural glass systems are typically custom designed and manufactured to suit the specific dimensions, loading requirements and architectural details of each project.
Can structural glass be installed in heritage buildings?
Yes. Structural glazing is often used in heritage and conservation projects because minimal framing allows modern interventions while preserving historic architecture. Specialist detailing and engineering may be required depending on the building.
What type of projects use structural glass?
Structural glass is commonly used in:
- residential extensions
- basements
- luxury homes
- commercial developments
- museums
- heritage buildings
- public spaces
- retail environments
Can you supply frameless structural glazing?
Yes. Many structural glass systems are designed with minimal visible framing to achieve clean architectural lines and maximise transparency.
Are structural glass systems energy efficient?
Modern structural glazing systems can incorporate:
- insulated glass units
- solar control coatings
- low-emissivity coatings
- thermally broken framing systems
These features help improve thermal performance and energy efficiency.
What Our Clients Say
It looks amazing, it’s just inside our front door so every customer sees it on entering. It’s a real talking point.
Thank you for all your considerable help with this project, you have been first class and I will gladly forward your details & company on whenever I am asked.
Just wanted to thank you for all your help and being part of the house build. It has been an incredible journey and made many friends along the way. The end result is “Glasshouse”, something everyone involved with should be very proud of.
I was meticulous in choosing the right product for our home and having lived in the house just over a month I’ve not been disappointed.
I would highly recommend Structural glass design. Many thanks for all your help with my walk on rooflights.
Thank you all for your efforts in getting these in – Very easy to deal with and very accommodating, hopefully work together again soon!
Thanks for the great installation, it's looking fantastic as you can see from the attached.
Ready to get started?
At Structural Glass Design, we specialise in creating bespoke glass solutions for both residential and commercial projects. Send us your dimensions, photos or sketches, and we'll guide you through options, finishes and lead times.
Phone
For enquiries, call us at 0333 577 7177
OUR MULTI-LAMINATED RANGE of STRUCTURAL GLASS FLOORS & ROOFLIGHTS
Explore the armourglass range of structural glass
armourglass SKY
armourglass SKY
armourglass DISPLAY
armourglass DRIVE
armourglass DRIVE
Contact us today to explore how our high-specification drive on glass floors and rooflights can transform your space.