We recently completed a commercial glazing project at East Kent College on the Isle of Sheppey, delivering a like-for-like replacement solution while significantly upgrading the thermal performance of the building.

The college wanted to retain the existing appearance and overall style of the windows and doors, so maintaining the visual character of the building was an important part of the project. Rather than simply replacing the existing units with equivalent products, we were able to introduce a higher-specification glazing and framing solution to improve the building’s thermal properties without compromising on its appearance. A like-for-like appearance with a higher specification.

 

The project incorporated Soleal Next aluminium framing, providing a modern, high-performance aluminium system suited to the demands of a commercial education environment. The replacement windows were designed to closely replicate the existing style and configuration, while upgrading the thermal performance of the building. All opening casements were fitted with Cam folding openers, providing practical and reliable ventilation while maintaining a clean finish. The internal and external frames were finished in RAL 7021 (Black Grey), complemented by a silicone seal finish to provide a consistent and professional appearance throughout the installation.

As part of the project, we also installed Stormframe STII commercial doors, providing a robust solution suitable for a busy educational environment.

The scope included the automation and connection requirements for the two sliding doors on the front elevation, helping to provide convenient and accessible entry to the college while maintaining the overall aesthetic of the building.

 

Managing a complex commercial installation

Working within an active educational environment requires careful planning, coordination and consideration of access and site safety.

Our project scope included the scaffolding required for the proposed window installations, courtesy of SBB Scaffolding Services (https://www.sbb-scaffolding.com/), along with scissor lift equipment to provide safe access. Specialist glass access equipment, including suction equipment, was also included to allow the glazing units to be handled and installed safely and efficiently.

To support the wider site requirements, Heras fencing, containers and welfare facilities were also incorporated into the project.

For the large curtain wall areas, internal hoarding protection was left subject to the final site survey, allowing the requirements to be assessed accurately before installation, combining appearance, performance and practicality.

The East Kent College project demonstrates how a replacement glazing project can deliver the best of both worlds: retaining the existing architectural appearance while improving the performance of the building.

By specifying higher-performance aluminium framing and glazing, alongside robust commercial doors, automated entrances and carefully planned access solutions, we were able to provide a complete commercial glazing package tailored to the college’s requirements.

The result is a modernised glazing installation that respects the existing style of the building while providing improved thermal properties, functionality and long-term performance.

If your school, college, commercial premises or public building requires replacement windows or doors, our team can help develop a solution that balances appearance, performance and practicality.

 

On this project, 100% of the removed materials were recycled! A special thanks to CDDL recycling services https://cddlrecycling.co.uk/