Roof Lantern Solar Control Installation
DWP Building – Airbles Road, Motherwell
Public Sector Office | Solar Control Film | External Roof Glazing
Project Overview
Mr Tint Window Films was appointed to install high-performance solar control window film to a large roof lantern at the DWP building on Airbles Road, Motherwell.
The objective was to reduce excessive solar heat gain affecting the open-plan office spaces below, improving internal comfort levels for staff and building users.
The works involved external application to a multi-faceted roof lantern structure situated at roof level.
The Challenge
The building’s main reception desk was positioned directly opposite a large glazed façade. During peak sunlight hours, staff were exposed to persistent glare, making screens difficult to view and creating daily discomfort.
In addition, the upstairs open-plan offices were experiencing excessive heat build-up due to direct solar gain through exposed glazing.
This was not simply a comfort issue — prolonged glare can contribute to:
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Eye strain
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Fatigue
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Reduced productivity
Excessive heat within office environments also presents welfare concerns and increases reliance on mechanical cooling.
The issue was raised by the office manager, who required a solution that would improve internal comfort without altering the building’s external appearance.
Why We Were Appointed
We carried out a full site survey and provided multiple performance-based options rather than a single generic recommendation.
Films specified and sampled included:
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Solarscreen Chrome 285XC
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Solarscreen Titane 275XC
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Solarscreen Natural 80XC
For each option we presented:
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Solar energy rejection data
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Visible light transmission figures
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Glare reduction metrics
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External reflectivity comparisons
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Manufacturer data sheets
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Samples of each film type
The client wanted a film that would reduce glare and heat while maintaining a clean, subtle façade appearance.
After reviewing performance tables and physical samples, Natural 80XC was selected as the most balanced solution.
Our technical planning around access and knowledge of installations at height also formed part of the decision.
Technical Considerations & Access Strategy
Although the glazing specification was suitable for internal installation, safe access internally was not achievable.
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A MEWP was too heavy for the internal floor loading
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A scaffold tower could not be safely positioned due to a deep window ledge
An external installation strategy was therefore proposed.
However, the façade presented additional challenges:
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Glazing was positioned above a 2m deep canopy
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Significant horizontal outreach was required
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A deceptive ground incline affected machine stability
Because both vertical height and horizontal reach were required, correct machine selection was critical.
A Genie Z45 MEWP was specified, capable of:
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Required working height
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Adequate outreach beyond the canopy
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Stable operation on sloped ground conditions
This planning ensured safe installation without disruption to building operations.
Outcome
The results were immediate.
Reception staff reported an instant reduction in glare, with improved screen visibility and comfort.
Upstairs office areas experienced a noticeable reduction in solar heat gain while maintaining clear outward views.
The selected film delivered:
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Significant glare reduction
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Improved thermal comfort
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High visible light transmission
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Minimal change to façade aesthetics
The building retained its architectural appearance while achieving a measurable improvement in internal working conditions.
Technical Summary
Project Type: Solar Control
Objective: Heat & Glare Reduction
Location: Wellhouse, Easterhouse
Sector: Public Building
Access Method: Genie Z45 Mewp
Working Conditions: External
Programme Duration: 1 day
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