Nestled in the scenic city of Aberdeen, Scotland, Luci and Campbell Carey are spearheading a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in historic homes and structures. Their company, Inglaze, is committed to offering sustainable glazing solutions designed to mitigate the prevalent issues of heat loss and draughty windows. For the Careys, Inglaze is not just a business enterprise but a mission driven by personal experiences and a profound dedication to environmental sustainability.
The inception of Inglaze is rooted in an unexpected discovery during the Careys’ stay in the tropical climate of Singapore. Faced with the challenge of keeping their home cool, they employed Perspex panels to retain the air-conditioned air, a practical solution that sparked the idea for their future venture. Upon returning to Scotland, they identified a significant need for energy-efficient solutions in traditional buildings, particularly those with single-glazed windows notorious for their inefficiency.
Inglaze’s core technology is both sophisticated and effective. By magnetically attaching transparent acrylic panels to existing windows, the company provides a secondary glazing method that is particularly advantageous for older and listed buildings. Modern double or triple glazing often encounters prohibitive costs or planning restrictions in such structures, making Inglaze’s solution a revolutionary alternative. A specially designed seal, crafted from recycled household plastics such as milk cartons, creates a robust and airtight barrier against the elements. These magnetic fixings are designed to adapt to temperature fluctuations, ensuring long-term durability and effectiveness.
Campbell Carey’s engineering expertise is integral to the company’s success. Leveraging CNC machinery and laser-cutting equipment, he can precisely tailor the acrylic panels to fit the specific dimensions of each window. This meticulous approach ensures an efficient and minimally invasive installation process, preserving the architectural integrity of historic buildings while significantly enhancing their energy efficiency.
The Careys’ innovative solution addresses a critical issue facing the UK. Heating homes and commercial properties accounts for over a third of the nation’s emissions, with many older buildings still reliant on single-glazed windows. These outdated windows not only escalate energy costs but also amplify carbon emissions. Luci Carey, who also lectures in commercial law, emphasises the urgent need to modernise these buildings to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
Inglaze aims to drive substantial change by offering cost-effective and non-intrusive enhancements to traditional windows. Preliminary estimates suggest that their secondary glazing technique could reduce heat loss by approximately 60% and lower energy costs by around 20%. These savings could enable property owners to recoup their initial investment within approximately two years, making it an appealing option for those seeking both financial and environmental benefits.
The journey to establish Inglaze has been supported by significant financial backing from reputable institutions. The Careys secured a total of £35,000 through the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme and DSL Business Finance. Barry McCulloch from the British Business Bank praised Inglaze’s innovative approach, highlighting the crucial role smaller businesses play in the transition to net-zero emissions.
Rekha Welsh from DSL Business Finance also commended the Careys for their expertise and thorough research in developing their magnetic glazing technology. She noted that the technology not only enhances energy efficiency but also exemplifies how entrepreneurial efforts can yield sustainable solutions.
One of the standout features of Inglaze’s solution is its low-cost, damage-free installation process. Unlike traditional window replacements, which can be expensive, messy, and complicated—especially with planning permissions—Inglaze’s method is straightforward and non-invasive. This makes it an attractive option for owners of older homes looking to enhance their property’s energy efficiency without undergoing major renovations.
Looking ahead, Luci and Campbell Carey are eager to start fitting their acrylic panels in customers’ homes. Their ultimate goal is to help Scottish buildings contribute to the nation’s net-zero targets by reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency. By focusing on sustainable improvements and leveraging innovative technology, the Careys aim to contribute not only to environmental goals but also to pave the way for future entrepreneurs to develop eco-friendly solutions.
The journey of Inglaze—from a simple idea inspired by life in Singapore to a fully-fledged business—demonstrates the power of innovative thinking in addressing contemporary challenges. The Careys’ commitment to sustainability, combined with their practical expertise, positions Inglaze as a promising player in the field of energy-efficient glazing solutions.
Inglaze represents a mission-driven initiative aimed at making a tangible difference in the fight against climate change. As they prepare to roll out their innovative glazing solution, their work stands as an inspiring example of how thoughtful, well-researched entrepreneurial efforts can drive significant environmental and economic benefits. As the husband-and-wife team continues to innovate and expand, their impact on traditional Scottish buildings and the broader push towards sustainability will undoubtedly be profound. Inglaze is set to make a lasting impact on Aberdeen’s architectural landscape, providing a much-needed update to its historic buildings while championing the cause of sustainability. The Careys’ venture underscores that with the right combination of vision, expertise, and determination, small businesses can lead the charge in creating a greener, more energy-efficient future.
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