Addiscombe Oaks

Introduction

The Keyfix Non-Combustible Cavity Tray has been installed as part of a new-build project, Addiscombe Oaks in South London, helping to safeguard the development from fire and future building regulation changes.

Overview

Addiscombe Oaks is a residential housing development designed by Gardner Stewart Architects (GSA) and developed by L&Q. This new-build development offers a selection of contemporary studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments. Conveniently located in East Croydon, residents of Addiscombe Oaks will benefit from quick transport links into London Bridge, Brighton and Gatwick airport, in addition to nearby shopping centres and parks.

Working alongside brickwork contractor Lee Marley Brickwork, Keyfix supplied 2,200 metres of its Non-Combustible Cavity Tray (NCCT), 434 preformed Corner Units, 1,362 preformed Reveal Returns, 8,700 weep vents, as well as Non-combustible Cavity Tray Lintels (NCCTL) over 264 openings.

The primary objective for the client was to ensure that the building was constructed in line with updated building regulations, and to ensure that the building would be future-proofed against potential regulation changes. Keyfix was able to meet this objective, as its NCCT is designed to last for the life of the building. The Keyfix NCCT is a fully compliant, A1 fire-rated system, manufactured using Class A1 Non-combustible Grade 304 austenitic stainless steel, resulting in a lifespan of 125+ years for the entire system. Therefore, its use ensures that the building is protected, should building regulations become stricter in the future.

Challenge

Furthermore, the main challenge the client faced on the project was keeping to the tight project timeframes. The project ran from October 2021 to August 2022, and the main contractor required an accredited solution which could be delivered in line with the tight-build programme. Keyfix resolved this challenge by supplying products which improved buildability. In particular, the provision of preformed corner units helped to significantly save time on installation.

Solution

The Keyfix NCCT was specified due to its ‘self-supporting one-piece system’ which allows for an easy and efficient installation. The NCCT’s unique design incorporates a stainless steel tray to provide rigid self-support across the clear cavity and requires no reinforcement from the internal structure using mastics or tapes. This design saves precious time for the bricklayer and eliminates clashes with other components.

Likewise, the Keyfix Non-Combustible Cavity Tray Lintel was specified due to its A1 Fire Rating, high performance stainless steel, and ease of installation. As the NCCTL requires no tape or mastics, it is a system that allows the contractor to ‘fix and forget’. The design of the NCCTL also incorporates mechanically fixed Stop Ends to capture and channel water outwards via the Keyfix NCW (Non-combustible Weep). The NCCTL is the maintenance-free solution that can accommodate openings up to 2822.5mm, with lintel lengths based on brickwork opening sizes with the range based on 215mm stretcher bond as standard.

Moreover, Keyfix supports its clients with the provision of a technical review of architects drawings and a comprehensive schedule and location layout plan on every project. On Addiscombe Oaks, Keyfix engaged with L&Q and Lee Marley Brickwork early on so that any challenges could be resolved before construction took place, ensuring that the project ran smoothly. Keyfix’s team attended design meetings, followed up with calls to site, and provided a Tool Box Talk and CPD webinar presentations to provide technical support and educational resources alongside its products.

Martyna Kielbasa, Senior Design and Technical Manager at L&Q commented: “The non-combustible cavity tray was specified as it aligned with the non-combustible scheme throughout the whole development. Keyfix’s representatives supported our subcontractor throughout the construction process by assisting with technical reviews, itemised schedules and sign-offs on specs.”

Commenting on the NCCT, Kieran Coyle of Keyfix stated, “The Keyfix Non-Combustible Cavity Tray is an A1 fire-rated system, ensuring our customers peace of mind as their buildings are future-proofed and safeguarded against fire, in addition to onsite efficiency.”

Addiscombe Oaks is now complete, with the Keyfix Non-Combustible Cavity Tray system having played an essential role in the construction of a safe residential development that is future-proof against possible regulation changes.