Next Generation Rooflights Now A CWCT Member: Advancing Our Rooflight Design

For architects, contractors, and façade consultants, CWCT guidance plays a critical role in shaping how glazing systems are specified, tested,
and delivered across modern buildings.

Our membership allows us to stay closely aligned with the latest research, technical guidance, and performance standards influencing façade and rooflight design.

So What is CWCT?

CWCT is the Centre for Window and Cladding Technology (more commonly referred to as just “CWCT”) is a UK-based research and advisory body focused on the design, testing, and performance of building envelopes.

Based at the University of Bath, CWCT provides widely referenced technical guidance for façade engineering, curtain walling, cladding
systems, and glazing installations.

Its publications and testing protocols are frequently used by architects, façade consultants, and contractors to ensure glazing systems meet performance, safety, and durability requirements.

Why Does CWCT Matters To Architects And Contractors

CWCT is the Centre for Window and Cladding Technology (more commonly referred to as just “CWCT”) is a UK-based research and advisory body focused on the design, testing, and performance of building envelopes. They have long been recognised as a key reference point for best practice in the design and testing of building envelopes.

CWCT’s research and technical guidance influence many of the standards used across the UK façade industry, including:

–   façade performance and weather resistance

–   structural glazing and load considerations

–   thermal and environmental performance

–   safety and non-fragility requirements

–   installation and long-term durability

For project teams specifying rooflights or structural glazing, CWCT guidance helps ensure systems perform as expected throughout both the design stage and operational life of the building.

What This Means to Our Clients

At Next Generation Rooflights, our role often extends beyond simply supplying glazing systems. We are Trusted Advisors who work alongside architects, and contractors during the early design stages, to help ensure rooflight solutions integrate correctly with the wider building envelope.

For us at Next Generation Rooflights being part of the CWCT community means we can:

–   stay informed about emerging glazing technologies and research

–   contribute to discussions around glazing performance and design

–   align our technical approach with recognised industry guidance

–   support architects and contractors with informed specification advice

Which is key part of our continued aim of acting as a trusted advisor and technical partner to help project teams navigate the complexities of modern rooflight and structural glazing design.

CWCT Guidance Influences Our Rooflight Design

CWCT guidance is particularly relevant in client projects where we are providing solutions with large areas of glazing that form part of the building envelope, including:

–   bespoke rooflights for residential extensions

–   structural glass rooflights on commercial buildings

–   rooftop terraces with glazed enclosures

–   pyramidal lantern rooflights

–   large-format overhead glazing in offices and public buildings

For these projects, aligning rooflight design with recognised guidance helps ensure their long-term performance.

Supporting Our High Performance Products

As architecture continues to prioritise natural light, energy performance, and architectural clarity, our rooflights and overhead glazing products play an increasingly important role in the needs of building design.

–   structural performance

–   weathering and drainage

–   thermal efficiency

–   safety and non-fragility

–   integration with the surrounding roof construction

Our CWCT membership means we are able to maintain our connection with the evolving research and technical guidance that supports these requirements.

Alignment to Recognised Industry Guidance

At Next Generation Rooflights we consistently work with the technical standards recognised industry guidance, including:

–  CWCT façade guidance

–  CWCT non-fragility classifications

–  required British Standards for structural glazing

–  thermal and weather performance requirements

This ensures every design meets the highest benchmarks for safety, durability, and performance.

Explore Your Options at the Projects Earliest Stages

Professionals know that rooflight and structural glazing challenges can often arise during the early stages of design, particularly where large glazed openings interact with the wider building envelope. Our Trusted Advisors often work with project teams at concept or planning stage which frequently means key considerations can be addressed early, including:

–  structural loading and support requirements

–  drainage and weathering strategies

–  thermal performance and condensation risk

–  non-fragility and maintenance access

–  integration with surrounding roof construction

At Next Generation Rooflights, our partnership approach means architects and contractors can explore glazing options before detailed specifications are finalised.

If you would like to learn more about our approach, or discuss how we can support your next project, please contact us on  01223 792 244  or email to [email protected]  and discover how Next Generation Rooflights continues to set standards in both design and delivery.

Related Rooflight Projects

These exemplify how our bespoke glazing solutions are integrated into modern and historic architecture.

–   Curtain House – London – bespoke rooflights and structural glazing

–   The Harrison – London – architectural rooflight installation

–   Hop Exchange – London – heritage rooflight refurbishment