THE eyes of the sporting world were on the new Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
Multivault GRP rooflights from Brett Martin have been able to harness the power of natural light – bringing life to the cycling arena and reducing its reliance on artificial lighting.
The iconic £100 million Emirates Arena incorporates the 2000 seat Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, an 8500 seat sports arena and a community sports hall – designed by architects 3DReid and built by Sir Robert McAlpine.
Brett Martin’s Multivault GRP rooflights were installed in three areas including the velodrome and sports hall.
Ensuring contemporary stadia and sports venues meet the growing aesthetic demands of architects, GRP allows a more even spread of daylight, illuminating the velodrome while eliminating the risk of hot spots and solar glare which could disturb sporting activities. Roofing contractor Graingers installed the 2700m2 Multivault GRP barrel vaults, covering about 15% of the total roof area.
Despite being placed above two kilometres of gantries and several kilometres of ventilation ductwork as well as lighting, PA, fire systems and radiant heating panels, the rooflights provide a diffuse light transfusion of 65-70% and create an attractive, bright environment.
“The key considerations in our selection process were to find rooflights which provide an even spread of internal illumination, achieve a good level of thermal insulation at a reasonable cost rate, while providing the highest levels of health and safety,” said Gordon McGhie, Director of 3DReid.”
The barrel vault is ideal for flat and low pitched roof types. It is designed to be installed without fixings penetrating the roof covering, guaranteeing the roof remains watertight. They also offer an attractive style and robust performance with a life expectancy of up to 30 years.
The Multivault GRP rooflights were also specified with a Cleartherm insulating layer – an option that can achieve a U-value below 1.0W/m2K – ensuring all of the light transmission and thermal insulation values required were met.
Rooflights offer an attractive solution to daylighting requirements whilst also providing the required insulation values which allow buildings to meet their energy saving targets and reduce their running costs.
