Frequently Asked Questions

We refurbish all types of commercial overhead glazing systems including barrel-vault atriums, pyramid rooflights, flat-roof glazing, curtain wall atria and bespoke architectural glass roofs. Whether your atrium uses patent glazing, structural silicone systems or bolt-fixed glass, our team has the specialist knowledge to repair and refurbish it.

Yes. We operate nationwide across the UK and have also delivered projects in Europe. Our teams are based strategically to provide rapid response times, and we maintain regional supply chain partnerships to ensure efficient project delivery wherever your building is located.

Absolutely. The majority of our atrium projects are carried out in live, occupied buildings including busy shopping centres and corporate offices. We routinely schedule works out-of-hours, during quiet trading periods or during building closures. Detailed method statements and risk assessments ensure the safety of building users at all times.

Yes. All our works are fully guaranteed, and we are one of the few specialist contractors in the UK able to offer insurance-backed guarantees (IBGs) on atrium refurbishment projects. This provides long-term protection and peace of mind, and is increasingly required by developers and facilities management companies.

Costs vary significantly depending on the size of the atrium, the extent of refurbishment required, access complexity and glass specification. We provide free, no-obligation site surveys and fully detailed quotations. As a guide, minor seal repairs may start from a few thousand pounds, while full system refurbishments for large commercial atriums can run into six figures.

Project duration depends on scope and access requirements. A targeted leak repair may take just a few days, while a comprehensive refurbishment of a large shopping centre atrium could take 12-16 weeks. We provide detailed programme schedules as part of every quotation and work closely with clients to minimise disruption.

In most cases, significantly so. A comprehensive refurbishment typically costs 40-60% less than full system replacement while delivering a comparable lifespan extension. We always assess whether refurbishment or replacement offers the best value for each specific project.

We use a combination of controlled water testing, thermal imaging and systematic visual inspection at close quarters. Controlled water testing involves applying water to specific areas of the glazing system in sequence to isolate exactly which joints or components are failing. Thermal imaging reveals hidden moisture within the structure that is not visible to the naked eye.

In the vast majority of cases, yes. Most atrium leaks are caused by localised failures in sealant joints, gaskets or drainage channels that can be repaired without disturbing the rest of the glazing system. We always recommend the most targeted and cost-effective repair approach.

We offer rapid response for emergency leak situations. For urgent cases involving active water ingress causing damage or disruption, we can typically attend site within 24-48 hours to carry out temporary make-safe measures, followed by a permanent repair programme.

The most common causes are UV degradation of sealants and gaskets, thermal cycling causing expansion and contraction of joints, blocked drainage channels causing water to back up behind seals, and general age-related deterioration. Poor original installation or previous repairs using inappropriate materials can also accelerate failure.

We employ a range of specialist access methods depending on the structure and environment. This includes IRATA-certified rope access, Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs), bespoke scaffolding solutions and crane operations for heavy glass lifts. Our access strategy is designed to minimise disruption to building occupants while maintaining the highest safety standards.

We use a combination of IRATA-certified rope access, crane operations and MEWPs depending on the height, weight and location of the glass units. All glass replacement operations are carried out under detailed method statements with full risk assessments.

A typical refurbishment includes a comprehensive condition survey, removal and replacement of failed sealants and gaskets, replacement of damaged or failed glass units, repair or replacement of glazing bars and cappings, drainage system clearance and overhaul, and application of new weatherproofing treatments. The exact scope is tailored to the specific condition and requirements of each structure.

We recommend a professional condition survey every 2-3 years for most commercial atriums, or annually for older systems or those with known issues. Regular surveys identify deterioration early, preventing costly emergency repairs.

Our programmes include regular condition inspections, proactive replacement of deteriorating seals and gaskets, drainage channel clearance and management, minor repair works identified during inspections, and detailed reporting on the condition of the glazing system.

In most cases, yes. Overhead glazing is often one of the weakest thermal elements in a commercial building, so upgrading it can have a significant positive impact on the overall EPC rating.

Savings depend on the existing glazing specification, the size of the atrium and the building's heating and cooling systems. Upgrading from single to high-performance double glazing typically reduces heat loss through the glazing by 60-80% and solar gain by 40-70%.