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Leiden University is strongly committed to sustainability, with the goal of significantly improving both the insulation and energy efficiency of its buildings. Following the installation of the facade glazing, the University Library’s distinctive skylights were recently replaced, making the library ready for low-temperature heating and connection to the thermal energy storage system (TES). In addition, the comfort for studying and working in the University Library has been greatly enhanced, says Michel Verwaal, Commercial Technical Director at Kingspan Light + Air. “Thanks to our new skylights, ample daylight flows into the library, while solar heat is efficiently blocked. And noise pollution from precipitation is no longer an issue.”
The University Library in Leiden features two large skylights that allow daylight to stream deep into the building. A distinctive feature of these skylights is the large cross-shaped structures in the center, which until recently were constructed from curved plastic profiles and a translucent plastic infill. “Compared to many other materials, plastic has a low thermal value,” explains Verwaal. “When it rained outside, the plastic panels also caused noise pollution, and during the summer months, it quickly became too hot to study and work comfortably in the library.” For this reason, the entire skylights were removed at the request of Leiden University and replaced with aluminum profiles featuring mostly curved insulated glass.
Kingspan Light + Air was awarded the contract for the replacement following a competitive bidding process, in which its compelling Action Plan, competitive price quote, and high-quality implementation team stood out in particular, says Marcel Greuel, Sales Manager for Renovation at Kingspan Light + Air. “During the preliminary phase, we conducted a thorough site survey in collaboration with all parties involved—from scaffolding contractors to the crane company, glass suppliers, and preservation specialists. This was because the underlying curved steel structure of the skylights had to remain intact and, if necessary, be repainted.” But that wasn’t the only challenge. “Since the University Library remained in use during the replacement work, special attention was paid to waterproofing and fire safety.” To protect all users, staff, and the University Library’s special collection during the work, a completely watertight work floor was created beneath the roof domes, he explains. “In addition, an aspiration system was installed underneath to ensure fire safety.”
The skylights have an impressive footprint of approximately 20 by 20 meters. “Combined with the complex shape and engineering, this was one of the most challenging projects we’ve undertaken to date,” Verwaal emphasizes. “On top of the existing steel structure, we installed a new aluminum mullion structure, combined with flat and hot-bent insulating glass. This beautifully blends a familiar aesthetic with modern performance. We opted for 50/22 glazing with a light transmittance of 50% and a g-value (solar heat gain coefficient) of 22%, which means that 78% of solar heat is efficiently blocked. This results in significant savings on cooling (and thus energy) and ensures an optimal indoor climate in all seasons.”
In total, nearly 1,200 m2 of insulated laminated glass was used in the skylights. “All the glass was produced locally in Europe,” says Verwaal. “What’s particularly special here is the glass from our long-standing partner Vandaglas, which is not flat but parabolically curved. The glass factory in Berlin uses electric furnaces, which allow for very precise control of the temperature during the bending process. As a result, the panes for the skylights are flawless. Furthermore, this partner ensures reliable delivery, which was crucial for this project.”
Kingspan Light + Air installed a mechanical fan in the ridge of the skylights. “We also incorporated adjustable vents on the underside near the tracks, which draw in fresh air from outside,” said Greuel. “This creates a pleasant indoor air quality.” Kingspan Light + Air has also incorporated lighting fixtures into the new skylights and integrated access features so that the glass domes can be safely cleaned and maintained.
Kingspan Light + Air measured and created 3D drawings of the new skylights in-house. A mock-up of a corner section with curved panes was then constructed, on which a successful sandbag swing test was also conducted, according to Verwaal. “All profiles were cut to exact specifications and given a high-quality surface treatment, which ensures improved corrosion resistance and aesthetics. A two-layer Qualicoat powder coating in RAL 9002 (gray-white) was chosen.” The profiles were then delivered to the project site as ready-to-assemble kits, in the exact correct assembly sequence. “Combined with a well-thought-out logistics plan, disruption in and around the University Library was kept to a minimum.”
Following the replacement of the skylights, Kingspan Light + Air also replaced an intermediate skylight that was 14 meters long and 3.60 meters wide.
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With over 45 years of experience in daylight solutions, natural ventilation and smoke control, we provide comfortable and safe living and working environments. With the natural elements of daylight and air, we realize unique concepts and systems in which functionality and sustainability go hand in hand. Together with architects, contractors and building owners, we create fire-safe and pleasant buildings. [...]
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