Roof Glazing Replacement at The Royal Exchange Building, Manchester
Project Overview
The Royal Exchange building in Manchester endured significant damage on 15 June 1996 when an IRA bomb exploded in nearby Corporation Street, less than 50 yards away. While the main structure remained undamaged, the blast caused the domes to shift. Extensive repairs were needed, taking over two years to complete and costing £32 million, which was generously funded by the National Lottery.
Scope of Work
The Standard Patent Glazing Company was entrusted with a highly prestigious contract—to replace the three massive glazed domes, totalling 1,000m² in area, which had been damaged by the explosion. During the removal of the existing damaged domes, a fascinating historical detail was uncovered: the glass of the central dome had originally been supplied with a blue/purple translucent paint. The sole evidence of this unique feature was found at the edges of the glass, discreetly encased within the glazing bars. It was decided that this distinctive characteristic should be faithfully restored in the new replacement domes, and we were commissioned to replicate this special tint.
Materials and Techniques
To achieve this extraordinary historical detail, we embarked on a diligent search for a coloured PVB interlayer to match the original blue/purple translucent paint. Our quest led us to Germany, where we sourced the perfect match. The replacement glass was carefully crafted in a bespoke single-glazed, heat-strengthened, laminated composition.
Our Heritage lead-covered steel glazing system played a pivotal role in this restoration project. It remains the sole patent glazing system available that faithfully replicates the original features of this grade II listed building.
Project Outcome
The restoration of the Royal Exchange building’s glazed domes was a resounding success, a testament to our commitment to historical accuracy and craftsmanship. By meticulously sourcing a coloured PVB interlayer and using a bespoke single-glazed, heat-strengthened, laminated composition, we faithfully recreated the original blue/purple translucent paint. The Heritage lead-covered steel glazing system, exclusive to our company, ensured the restoration remained true to the building’s historical significance.
This case study illustrates our dedication to preserving the historical integrity of cherished landmarks. The Royal Exchange building stands as a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into the roof glazing replacement, ensuring its continued status as a cherished historical site.
Testimonial ~ Mike Giddings Project Manager at Mace Ltd
“I’m thrilled to commend the Standard Patent Glazing Company for their remarkable work on The Royal Exchange Building’s Roof Glazing Replacement project. Their commitment to historical accuracy and craftsmanship shone through.
The project was a tremendous success, and The Royal Exchange building now stands as a testament to their meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to preserving historical landmarks. I wholeheartedly recommend Standard Patent Glazing for their exceptional work in historical restoration.”
