When considering a bespoke design package, it is imperative that a design sales meeting is conducted to ensure that all aspects of a glass structures design is considered. There are huge advantages to a structures aesthetics and performance, when considered and every effort should be made to ensure that the design brief meets the client’s expectations.
We have listed many of the main considerations when utilising shuffle glazing below.
Cost/Budget Considerations
Within relatively short span applications, shuffle glazing represents the most cost effective contemporary system available. The thickness of the glass however increases exponentially to the span, resulting in larger span applications being more costly than that of the other systems available.
Design Considerations
Shuffle glazing systems offer very little detail flexibility within the design and may only be utilised in a few applications (typically internal partitioning and external glazed walls). Should the glass design require doors, these may be provided in frameless or near frameless door systems (supported from floor springs and patch fittings). Double glazed units are provided with a black spacer and silicone seal as standard. It is worth noting that polysulphide sealed glass units are not suitable for shuffle glazed applications due to the exposure to UV light. Float laminated glass (unless of significant thickness) should not be utilised in this application and should a laminated inner pane be required, a toughened laminated glass should be utilised. Necessary perimeter engagements and glass clearances must be maintained and by this systems nature, one of the formed channels (typically along the head), must be deep enough to accommodate two times the engagement, plus design clearances.
Aesthetical Considerations
In this instance, the perimeter sections may be designed so that they are recessed within other perimeter finishes. Whilst this system is often viewed as the most aesthetically accommodating, thick glass specifications will produce a darker green tint and you may therefore want to review Low Iron glass within the specification.
Programme Considerations
Unless a framed glazed design requires additional specialist finishing’s/coatings, there are no additional programme considerations with the shuffle glazing systems. Bespoke design programmes typically start at 10 weeks design and fabrication prior to site commencement (excluding approval periods).
Maintenance Considerations
Maintenance is often a poorly considered area, however represents a continuous cost consideration (cleaning, glass replacement etc.). It is important that all areas of maintenance are considered at length during the design process (a typical requirement under CDM regulations). Shuffle Glazing designs may contain large and heavy units, where expensive access and lifting equipment may be required during replacement/cleaning. As an ongoing cost, glass maintenance considerations should be paramount and should be reviewed during the planning process. When cleaning, shuffle glazing systems have the added advantage of a flush internal and external glass finish, resulting in no obstructions or advanced cleaning considerations. When exploring the utilisation of any glazing system and/or design, it is also worth requesting a budget cost for glass replacement so that the risk of breakage and associated cost can be considered.
