Structural Gass

ACJ Glazing Solutions specialises in the design, fabrication and installation of structural glass systems for retail, commercial and leisure developments across the UK. Our structural glazing solutions deliver maximum transparency, contemporary aesthetics, and robust performance for high-profile shopfronts, building entrances, and architectural glass features.

From frameless glass shopfronts with minimal sightlines to complex glass fin structures and bespoke entrance lobbies, we provide engineered structural glazing solutions that combine architectural vision with structural integrity and building regulation compliance.

Our portfolio includes prestigious projects at Wembley Stadium, major shopping centres including The Drakes in Plymouth and retail developments in Barnstaple, demonstrating our capability to deliver structural glass installations for blue-chip clients and demanding environments nationwide.

WHAT IS STRUCTURAL GLASS?

Structural glass systems use toughened and laminated glass as the primary structural element, minimising or eliminating traditional framing to create uninterrupted transparency and modern architectural aesthetics.

Unlike conventional framed shopfronts where glass sits within aluminium or steel frames, structural glass installations transfer loads directly through the glass itself, using sophisticated fixing methods including patch fittings, glass fins, channels, and bolt fixings.

This approach delivers maximum visibility for retail displays, enhanced natural light penetration, and the clean contemporary appearance demanded by modern architects and developers.

STRUCTURAL GLASS SYSTEM TYPES

We design and install a comprehensive range of structural glass systems tailored to your project requirements:

Glass Fin Systems

Vertical glass fins provide structural support, allowing large glass panels to be installed with minimal visible framing. Fins are typically manufactured from 19mm toughened laminated glass, bolted together at mid-points with stainless steel or galvanised steel splicing plates, with shopfront glass panels bolted back to the fins using countersunk fixings.

Typical Applications: Retail shopfronts, shopping centre entrances, commercial building lobbies

Example Project: The Drakes Shopping Centre, Plymouth - 19mm glass fin shopfront with stainless steel frame, bolted glass panels and integrated entrance doors

Frameless Butt-Joint Glass

Thick toughened laminated glass panels butted directly together without vertical fins or mullions, creating completely uninterrupted transparency. Glass edges meet with minimal gaps, sealed with structural silicone, and are held within top and bottom channels or perimeter frames.

Typical Applications: Premium retail frontages, luxury brand shopfronts, contemporary building entrances

Key Features: Maximum visibility, ultra-modern aesthetic, brushed stainless steel perimeter frames with 100 x 100mm steel posts for structural support

Channel-Glazed Systems

Structural glass panels set into aluminium or stainless steel channels top and bottom (and optionally at sides), providing a semi-frameless appearance with enhanced structural support. Commonly used where height or wind loading requires additional edge restraint.

Typical Applications: Shopping centre atriums, multi-storey retail entrances, sports and leisure facilities

Example Project: Wembley Stadium - structural glass set into top and bottom channels for two separate areas, delivering transparency and structural performance in a high-traffic environment

Patch-Fitted Glass Doors & Screens

Frameless glass doors and screens supported by stainless steel patch fittings - circular or rectangular plates bolted through the glass at corner or mid-rail positions. Provides contemporary entrance solutions with minimal hardware visibility.

Typical Applications: Shopfront entrance doors, office reception areas, interior glass screens

Hardware Options: Polished or brushed stainless steel patch fittings, floor springs, overhead closers, panic hardware

MATERIALS & SPECIFICATIONS

Glass Specifications

• Toughened Laminated Glass: Primary specification for structural applications - typically 10mm + 1.52mm interlayer + 10mm (21.52mm total)

• Thicker Laminates: Up to 30mm+ for demanding structural or security applications

• Glass Fins: Typically 19mm toughened laminated glass for vertical support fins

• Low-Iron Glass: Available for maximum clarity and minimal green tint on thick glass installations

Framing & Hardware

• Stainless Steel: Brushed, polished or satin finishes for perimeter angles, posts and hardware

• Steel Posts: 100 x 100mm structural steel posts, stainless steel clad or powder-coated

• Bolted Connections: Stainless steel or galvanised steel splicing plates and brackets

• Patch Fittings: Marine-grade stainless steel patch plates for doors and screens

• Channels: Aluminium or stainless steel top/bottom channels for glazing retention

APPLICATIONS & SECTORS

Retail & Shopping Centres

• High street retail shopfronts and entrances

• Shopping centre unit frontages

• Mall entrances and atrium glazing

• Designer boutiques and flagship stores

Commercial Buildings

• Office building entrances and reception lobbies

• Corporate headquarters glazed facades

• Showrooms and exhibition spaces

Sports & Leisure

• Stadium entrances and hospitality areas

• Leisure centres and fitness facilities

• Entertainment venues and cinemas

Mixed-Use Developments

• Ground floor retail with residential/commercial above

• Hotel and hospitality entrances

DESIGN & ENGINEERING SERVICES

Structural glass installations require careful engineering to ensure safety, performance and compliance with building regulations. Our in-house technical team provides:

• Structural Calculations: Glass thickness, laminate specifications and support sizing based on wind loading, height and exposure

• CAD Drawings: Full technical drawings for planning, building control and construction coordination

• Site Surveys: Precise dimensional surveys ensuring accurate fabrication and fit

• Building Regulations Compliance: Ensuring installations meet Part N (glazing safety), Part L (thermal performance) and Part M (accessibility)

• Specification Advice: Working with architects and specifiers to optimise system selection for performance and budget

INSTALLATION CAPABILITIES

Structural glass installations demand specialist equipment and experienced installation teams. ACJ Glazing Solutions provides:

• Spider Cranes & Glass Handling Equipment: In-house crane access for safe handling of large, heavy glass panels

• Experienced Installation Teams: Specialist glaziers trained in structural glass installation techniques

• Precision Fabrication: CNC-machined holes, edge polishing and lamination to exact tolerances

• Site Coordination: Working with main contractors and shopfitters to meet project programmes

• Nationwide Service: Projects completed throughout the UK from our Southampton base

BENEFITS OF STRUCTURAL GLASS

For Retailers

• Maximum display visibility and product showcase

• Contemporary aesthetic attracting customers

• Enhanced natural light creating inviting interiors

For Developers & Architects

• Modern design language and architectural flexibility

• Building regulation compliance with contemporary aesthetics

• Increased building value and tenant appeal

For Facilities Managers

• Durable toughened and laminated glass construction

• Low maintenance stainless steel and glass materials

• Long service life with minimal ongoing costs

COMPLETED PROJECTS

ACJ Glazing Solutions has delivered structural glass installations across the UK for major retail, commercial and leisure clients:

The Drakes Shopping Centre, Plymouth

Glass fin structural shopfront system using 19mm glass fins bolted together at mid-point with steel splicing plates. Shopfront glass panels bolted back to fins, all fitted within brushed stainless steel perimeter frame. Includes integrated patch-fitted glass doors and entrance lobby.

Wembley Stadium, London

Supply and installation of structural glass systems set into top and bottom channels for two separate areas within the stadium, delivering transparency and robust performance in this high-profile, high-traffic environment.

Shopping Centre, Barnstaple

Nine structural glass shopfronts for retail units, demonstrating our capability to deliver multiple coordinated installations within shopping centre environments to demanding programme schedules.

Multi-Unit Entrance, Location Confidential

Frameless butt-joint structural glass entrance serving five retail units. Thick toughened laminated glass panels butted together without vertical fins, fitted within brushed stainless steel perimeter frame with 100 x 100mm structural steel posts, creating a contemporary unified entrance for multiple tenancies.

Ready to discuss your structural glass project?

Contact our team for a free survey and quotation, or to discuss your technical requirements.

Tel: 023 8000 1727

Mobile: 07917 364092

Email: alan@glass-solutions.co

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