New Aluminium Rooflight Transforms Learning Space at Salford Museum & Art Gallery

A Brighter Future: Replacement Rooflight for Grade II Listed Building

A new bespoke aluminium rooflight from Howells Patent Glazing has significantly improved the learning environment at Salford Museum & Art Gallery, enhancing natural daylight and eliminating water ingress in the popular educational space.

Commissioned by Manchester-based contractor Schofield & Sons, the replacement roof glazing forms part of an interior upgrade funded by the Arts Council England’s Museum Estate and Development Fund (MEND).

Why the Rooflight Replacement Was Needed

The existing domed polycarbonate rooflight, originally installed in an aluminium frame, had reached the end of its service life. It leaked during heavy rain and failed to provide adequate daylight, impacting the usability of the room for workshops and group activities.

Following a detailed site survey, Howells recommended a hip-ended self-supporting aluminium rooflight as a more durable and energy-efficient replacement.

Rooflight Specification & Safety Features

The new system includes:

• Double glazed units with:

  • 9.5mm heat-strengthened laminated inner pane

  • 6mm toughened self-cleaning outer pane

• Class 2 non-fragile glass, compliant with current safety standards

• UV protection, blocking up to 99% of harmful rays

• Powder-coated aluminium frame in RAL 7016 (Anthracite Grey)

• Thermally broken aluminium glazing bars, reducing heat loss and condensation

While not walkable, Class 2 glass is designed to be non-fragile, meaning it resists shattering and helps prevent falls through the rooflight in the unlikely event of an accident.

Enhancing the Indoor Environment with Natural Daylight

Jo Byrne, Operations Manager at Salford Museum & Art Gallery, said:

“The room is used as a learning space — we hold workshops in there; schools use it for lunch; and we have clubs, such as Salford Art Club, who rent it from us. It needs to be a welcoming environment with plenty of natural light.”

Research from The Rooflight Association supports the health and wellbeing benefits of natural light, including improved concentration, reduced fatigue, and better overall mood — key factors in an educational setting.

Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Rooflight Design

All Howells rooflights are manufactured from recyclable aluminium and use a fully thermally broken glazing bar system. This delivers:

• Improved energy efficiency

• Reduced draughts and condensation

• Enhanced comfort for building users

• Long-lasting performance with minimal maintenance

The RAL 7016 powder-coated finish provides both a sleek aesthetic and outstanding resistance to corrosion and weathering.

Overcoming Access Challenges in a Heritage Setting

Due to the Grade II listed status of the building, external access was restricted. All components had to be carefully brought inside via a narrow Victorian staircase and double-door entrance.

A scaffold platform was erected inside the learning room, allowing the team to safely install the new rooflight from below without disturbing the historic exterior.

Summary: High-Performance Roof Glazing for Museums and Heritage Buildings

This project demonstrates Howells’ ability to deliver tailored roof glazing solutions for sensitive heritage environments — combining technical excellence with sympathetic design.

To learn more about our work with museums, galleries, and listed buildings, or to discuss your own rooflight installation or replacement, contact Howells Patent Glazing today.