About Us

Founded in 1902, we are the longest established, largest and most successful patent glazing specialists company in the UK, recognised as market leaders and innovators, providing end-to-end services with in-house expertise from design to installation.

Drawing on our enduring commitment as dedicated specialists, we meticulously design, manufacture, and install roof patent glazing systems, skylights, and lanterns for projects spanning the length and breadth of the UK.

Benefitting from the expertise of our highly experienced in-house experts, who have collectively designed, manufactured and installed millions of square meters of patent glazing over decades. Our portfolio showcases our impeccable craftsmanship gracing today’s most prestigious buildings, railway stations, and shopping centres.

What sets us apart as patent glazing specialists is our unique truly end-to-end service, utilising directly employed experts from design to installation. This approach ensures accountability at every step of the way, providing peace of mind to our valued clients.

From concept to aftercare, we offer a comprehensive service that eliminates the stress of communicating with multiple entities, ultimately delivering peace of mind to the client.

Our History

1900s

Founding of The Standard Patent Glazing Co Ltd

The Standard Patent Glazing Co Ltd was founded in 1902 by Henry Richardson, Fredrick Bottomley, and Joseph Rouse Schofield, pioneering the field of patent glazing solutions. Today, we continue their legacy of excellence.

1910s

Pioneering Invention

We introduced our pioneering invention, revolutionising the use of glass “stops” within glazing bar fabrication. Our patented design aimed to simplify the removal and insertion of glass, eliminating the risk of puncturing the external lead extrusion used to weather the internal mild steel core.

1920s

Relocation to Forge Lane, Dewsbury

In 1922 we relocated to a purpose-built premises at Forge Lane, Dewsbury, marking a significant milestone in our history. The move was driven by the need to expand production of our patented glazing products.

1930s

Local Job Growth: Expansion of The Standard Patent Glazing Co Ltd’s Production Capacity

Increased demand prompts The Standard Patent Glazing Co Ltd to significantly expand its production capacity. This expansion results in a substantial increase in the company’s labour force, providing employment opportunities for skilled workers across various disciplines from the local area of Dewsbury.

1940s

Innovation and Wartime Contributions

In addition to our contributions to the war effort in the 1940s through innovative temporary structures, we pioneered a revolutionary glazing system known as ‘Stalumin,’ crafted from aluminium. Recognising aluminium’s crucial role in wartime industries, we harnessed its properties to develop a cutting-edge solution for the glazing industry. Our patented ‘Stalumin’ system not only showcased our commitment to innovation but also demonstrated our adaptability in utilising emerging technologies.

1950s

Patenting of Our Inaugural Double Glazing System

A pivotal moment in our company’s history occurs as we patent our inaugural double glazing system in 1950. This milestone reflects our forward-thinking approach to meet the growing demand for thermal efficiency in architectural design.

1960s

1969 - minute meeting new office accommodation

Office Expansion and Enhanced Production Capacity

Following a period of significant growth, we expanded our offices in the 1960s to include a state-of-the-art drawing office. This expansion facilitated further employment opportunities and boosted our production capacity, enabling us to meet increasing demand and enhance our operational efficiency.

1970s

Continued Growth and a Defended Takeover Bid

The 1970s were marked by continued growth and a notable takeover bid from Heywood Williams Ltd, a major PLC competitor recognising our company’s potential. Fortunately, our directors declined the offer, a decision that proved wise as Heywood Williams Ltd faced difficulties and ceased trading several decades later.

1980s

Formation of New Board and Milestone Achievement

In 1980, the newly established board initiated significant growth, leading to multi-million pound annual revenues that sustainably increased throughout the decade.

1990s

Introduction of Thermally Broken Systems

In 1998, we introduced our thermally broken systems. Anticipating and exceeding the impending regulatory requirements of Building Regulations Part L, our thermally broken systems set a new benchmark for energy efficiency and thermal performance in patent glazing.

2000s

Major Railway Projects and Industry Leadership

The new millennium marked our involvement in significant railway projects, providing daylighting solutions to stations nationwide, including York, Darlington, Hull paragon, Chester, and London Victoria. Throughout our history, our role as patent glazing specialists has been marked by numerous innovation. We played a key role in developing the British Standard for vertical and sloping glazing – BS5516:2004 Parts 1 and 2, emphasising our commitment to best practices in the daylighting industry. In November 2007, we achieved ISO 9001 quality management accreditation, which laid the foundation for our subsequent ISO 14001 environmental management and ISO 45001 health and safety management systems.

2010s

Formation of Senior Management Team and Operational Revolution

In 2017, the current Senior Management Team was formed, initiating a transformative change management process that revolutionised our operational capabilities. By embracing change, we achieved increased efficiency and improved quality, laying the groundwork for our future digitalisation ambitions. This pivotal year set the stage for our ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence.

2020s

Resilience and Innovation

In 2020 we navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and emerged stronger than ever. Despite the hurdles, we’ve continued to grow and innovate, launching new products and fully digitalising our operations to align with the Industry 4.0 framework. Our commitment to progress has been driven by substantial investments in technology and infrastructure.

History of Patent Glazing

For over a century, The Standard Patent Glazing Company has been at the forefront of manufacturing patent glazing systems, bars, and ancillaries. Established in 1902, the company quickly gained prominence with its innovative Lead Covered Patent Glazing bars, spurred by the successful re-glazing of the central transept of the Crystal Palace.

Rapid expansion followed, solidifying Standard Patent Glazing’s position as a leader in patent glazing systems and rooflights, with offices and agents spanning the whole of the UK.

During World War II, the aluminium industry flourished, supplying vital materials for military aircraft. Post-war, this surge in aluminium production enabled the emergence of the aluminium patent glazing bar in the 1950s. Its superior properties, lower maintenance, reduced weight, and cost-effectiveness marked a pivotal shift in the market, ultimately dethroning the lead covered patent glazing bar by the late 1960s.

Innovations continued with surface treatments like stove enamelling and nylon coatings, paving the way for anodizing and polyester powder coating. These advancements not only enhanced aesthetics but also bolstered durability against environmental wear.

The evolution of double glazing also saw significant strides, progressing from site-assembled units in the 1950s to factory-made, hermetically sealed systems by the 1960s. Incorporation of safety glass further underscored the industry’s commitment to improving product reliability and safety standards.

Throughout its history, material advancements from asbestos cord to modern EPDM gaskets, reflect ongoing dedication to safety and regulatory compliance. Today, modern patent glazing systems integrate thermal breaks and insulation enhancements, meeting rigorous building standards while accommodating contemporary architectural and legislative demands.

As The Standard Patent Glazing Company continues to play a pivotal role in high-profile glazing projects, it remains steadfast in its commitment to heritage. The “HERITAGE” lead covered patent glazing bar, offered in single and double glazed options, stands as a testament to its enduring legacy and unwavering quality.

From humble beginnings to today’s complex architectural demands, The Standard Patent Glazing Company remains a beacon of innovation and reliability in the patent glazing industry.

Affiliations and Certificates

Vacancies

Join Our Team at The Standard Patent Glazing Co Ltd

Are you ready to embark on an exciting career journey with one of the leading names in the glazing industry? At The Standard Patent Glazing Co Ltd, we pride ourselves on our commitment to excellence, innovation, and unparalleled customer service. As we continue to expand and evolve, we are seeking talented individuals to join our dynamic team.

Technical Estimator / Trainee Technical Estimator

The position involves the estimating of our bespoke aluminium and steel framed patent glazing systems on commercial and domestic projects that range in value from £1K to £2m. You should have experience with pricing aluminium glazing systems and be very competent with the use of computers and software.

Below are a number of credentials the Estimator should possess:

Extremely high attention to detail and accurate checking of your own work.
Understanding of Tendering Documents and the Tendering process.
Able to understand and interpret Architectural Drawings and material specifications.
Highly motivated to learn quickly and absorb information.
Excellent written, organisational and communication skills
Professional manner on the telephone and in person
Ability to deal on a professional level with Principal Contractors, Architects and Domestic Clients
Work well under pressure
Ability to work as part of a team and work alone as and when required
The ability to prioritise your workload.
Strong work ethic.
Highly competent in Microsoft Excel (Visual Basic/Macro writing skills preferred)
Knowledge of CAD software an advantage.

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