Security glazing in Prestatyn

Safety glass in critical locations

In Wales, safety glazing is covered by Approved Document N (glazing) under the Welsh Building Regulations rather than Approved Document K. Glass in doors up to 1,500 mm above the floor, in panes within 300 mm of a door up to 1,500 mm, and in other glazing below 800 mm should be safety glass or protected. Laminated and toughened glass are the usual choices.

Listed buildings and conservation areas

Listed buildings in Wales need listed building consent from the local planning authority for works that affect their character, which can include replacing historic glass, glazing bars or sashes. Cadw advises on the historic environment in Wales. Reversible options such as secondary glazing are often easier to agree, but the council decides.

Replacing glass in an existing frame

Welsh Government guidance says building regulations have applied to replacement glazing since 1 April 2002, which covers replacing windows and doors. Swapping only the glass or a sealed unit in an existing frame is generally treated as a repair. New glass in a critical location should still be safety glass, and the council's building control team can confirm anything unclear.