"roof finishes"

Project descriptionDixons Academies Trust is a well-established multi-academy trust that aims to challenge educational and social disadvantage in Yorkshire and the North West.The trust transforms schools into safe and high-performing learning environments, enabling students from all backgrounds to realise their potential and maximise their opportunities after school.Alpha Roofing Systems was brought in to refurbish two roof areas at Dixons Croxteth Academy in Liverpool after the existing waterproofing failed.A number of complex challenges arose from the start; after stripping back the aged and failed single ply system, Alpha identified a water-saturated bituminous roof beneath, which also overlaid the original asphalt waterproofing.The excess weight imposed on the roof from the multiple, heavily saturated waterproofing systems led to cracking and depressions in the deck, as well as rusting of reinforcement within the structure.This meant that, before installation work could even begin, many hours of labour were required to remove the top two waterproofing layers to expose the original asphalt. What’s more, this work had to be undertaken both during term time and a period of heavy rainfall.Solution and installationAfter close consultation with their IKO business manager, Mark Taylor, the Alpha team selected the IKO ULTRA Prevent 25 waterproofing system for this project.To adhere to Department of Education requirements, a 35-year durability statement was necessary, so the long-lasting, durable finish offered by the IKO ULTRA Prevent system was ideal.Challenges continued to come thick and fast throughout the project; after stripping the roof back to the asphalt waterproofing, a large expansion joint was found near the clerestory window. Tapered designs were subsequently adjusted to accommodate.30 tonnes of waste material – primarily due to the uplift of the previous failed waterproofing systems – also had to be removed from the roof over the course of a week.Furthermore, complex design variables meant that Alpha could not fully determine the existing roof falls until the roof had been sufficiently exposed. Working closely with the IKO technical team, design information and solutions were identified to keep the project on track.To complicate matters further, Alpha was also required to carry out this extensive work during active teaching time. This presented not only additional health & safety considerations but also the need to minimise disruption.With a stringent construction phase plan and regular active monitoring, the project was completed with a zero incident/accident rate and excellent feedback from the client on Alpha’s approach to safety.Despite a number of hurdles and complexities to overcome, Alpha Roofing Systems delivered the project ahead of time and within budget, providing a low maintenance, long-lasting roof for Dixons Croxteth Academy and a satisfying outcome for all involved.

Project descriptionDixons Academies Trust is a well-established multi-academy trust that aims to challenge educational and social disadvantage in Yorkshire and the North West.The trust transforms schools into safe and high-performing learning environments, enabling students from all backgrounds to realise their potential and maximise their opportunities after school.Alpha Roofing Systems was brought in to refurbish two roof areas at Dixons Croxteth Academy in Liverpool after the existing waterproofing failed.A number of complex challenges arose from the start; after stripping back the aged and failed single ply system, Alpha identified a water-saturated bituminous roof beneath, which also overlaid the original asphalt waterproofing.The excess weight imposed on the roof from the multiple, heavily saturated waterproofing systems led to cracking and depressions in the deck, as well as rusting of reinforcement within the structure.This meant that, before installation work could even begin, many hours of labour were required to remove the top two waterproofing layers to expose the original asphalt. What’s more, this work had to be undertaken both during term time and a period of heavy rainfall.Solution and installationAfter close consultation with their IKO business manager, Mark Taylor, the Alpha team selected the IKO ULTRA Prevent 25 waterproofing system for this project.To adhere to Department of Education requirements, a 35-year durability statement was necessary, so the long-lasting, durable finish offered by the IKO ULTRA Prevent system was ideal.Challenges continued to come thick and fast throughout the project; after stripping the roof back to the asphalt waterproofing, a large expansion joint was found near the clerestory window. Tapered designs were subsequently adjusted to accommodate.30 tonnes of waste material – primarily due to the uplift of the previous failed waterproofing systems – also had to be removed from the roof over the course of a week.Furthermore, complex design variables meant that Alpha could not fully determine the existing roof falls until the roof had been sufficiently exposed. Working closely with the IKO technical team, design information and solutions were identified to keep the project on track.To complicate matters further, Alpha was also required to carry out this extensive work during active teaching time. This presented not only additional health & safety considerations but also the need to minimise disruption.With a stringent construction phase plan and regular active monitoring, the project was completed with a zero incident/accident rate and excellent feedback from the client on Alpha’s approach to safety.Despite a number of hurdles and complexities to overcome, Alpha Roofing Systems delivered the project ahead of time and within budget, providing a low maintenance, long-lasting roof for Dixons Croxteth Academy and a satisfying outcome for all involved.

A three year £24 million programme of works to repair and repaint the roof structure to Bristol Temple Meads railway station is featuring the use of the ZEUS Horizontal fire barrier system from FIREFLY™: employed to enclose a series of shallow arch scaffold beams or ‘cassettes’ that span the tracks, thereby protecting the workforce from any potential train fire as they use the access deck above.

Due to the bustling activity of our client’s builders merchant business, we recognised the need to enhance the accessibility and user-friendliness of their commercial unit. The existing setup featured a pedestrian entrance alongside a roller shutter entrance designated for goods in bay, which posed challenges in accommodating the high traffic flow and meeting customer expectations.To address these concerns, we proposed a comprehensive solution that would transform the customer entrance into a wider, more inviting space. A framed shop front system was strategically installed just inside the loading bay entrance, creating a seamless transition between the outdoor and indoor spaces. To ensure continuity and functionality, a short canopy roof was added, along with a heavy duty brush seal to bridge the gap to the roller shutter entrance.The focal point of our solution was the integration of a heavy duty commercial grade silent automatic bi-parting sliding door system. This innovative addition not only enhanced user-friendliness for customers but also facilitated rapid opening and closing, crucial for a busy builders merchant environment. By combining functionality, convenience, and efficiency, we successfully transformed the customer entrance into a welcoming and efficient gateway that catered to the needs of our client’s thriving business.

If there is one thing that characterizes Scotland and touches all its visitors, that is its natural surroundings and historical buildings, which still retain their original charm. So, as the world leader in natural slate, we are proud that our slates have been chosen to renovate one of these heritage buildings: the Renfrew Town Hall and Museum. THE BEST CHOICE FOR HERITAGE BUILDINGS As part of a refurbishment programme, The Renfrew Town Hall roof has been recently renewed with our natural slate Heavy 3. This slate has been the perfect choice to keep its original appeal of tradition and heritage.

Koster Aquatecnic were approached by the project architect to assist in a specification to renew the waterproofing to the roof of the large visitor cottages at the base of Ardnamurchan Lighthouse.This lighthouse is situated at the most westerly point in the British Isles and as such is extremely exposed to the elements. A robust material and system had to be produced. This was a very challenging project and a great deal of assistance was provided including bespoke drawings, office and site meetings followed by leak testing services to ensure fully watertight.Please read through the case study and if you have any questions or would like advice on a similar project, please contact technical@kosteruk.com.

The project consisted of two similar flat roof areas totalling 1,100m2 above high-rise residential blocks in a city centre location. The existing roofs were an inverted roof design that had been waterproofed with single-ply that had failed prematurely. Numerous short-term, localised repairs had failed to stop the water ingress and leaks had been a long-term problem.It would have been impractical to remove the tons and tons of ballast and insulation from the top of the high-rise building and it was imperative to the client that removal or replacement works were not involved at all. The specific nature of this project required careful consideration, and so a survey of the roof was arranged.The SolutionA report from an independent consultant commissioned by the client identified a problematic challenge with an overlay option. The existing falls of the roof were assessed to be poor, and so standing water would be an issue for any new waterproof covering. The report concluded that this would reduce the lifespan of an overlay waterproofing system and so was advised against. The client initially thought this to be a stumbling block and that costly and impractical modifications to the roof would need to be made.Having worked with Polyroof on scores of other projects, the client turned to Polyroof Technical Services for a solution that could meet their stringent criteria. Following on from the preliminary discussions, Polyroof’s Technical Services assessed the site, taking core samples and then providing a suitable specification to overlay the roof with the Protec System.The BBA certification of the Protec system specifically covers use for zero falls (completely flat) applications, meaning the client had absolute peace of mind that standing water would not be a detriment to the integrity of the waterproofing system. The client was able to achieve the original objective of an overlay system and benefited from the associated cost and time savings. Furthermore, the BBA certificate states that when used in inverted roof scenarios the lifespan of the Protec system is as long as the design life of the roof.Work was started with J R Flat Roofing, a Polyroof approved contractor with national coverage, moving the ballast and insulation to one-side in four phases of 140m2 at a time, exposing the single-ply membrane to which the Protec system was directly applied.Due to Protec’s rapid cure and walk-on times (30-60 mins dependent on conditions), the system is ideal for larger, phased refurbishment, as specific sections of the roof can be made waterproof with the full Protec system in one day. When carrying out the next section, the new Protec membrane forms a totally seamless and watertight joint to the existing Protec-covered areas.Another objective was to reuse the original inverted insulation and ballast pebbles as this was cost saving and negated the need for the lifting logistics that would have been involved in bringing the ballast to ground level. Additionally, it made the process as environmentally compliant as possible by keeping waste to a minimum. The insulation and pebbles were re-applied in its original format and, due to the weight of the pebbles, was a mammoth task that required three miniveyors to help with the handling. A series of special aluminium breather vents were also fitted down to the concrete slab roof substrate to enable the surface to dry out over a period of 12 months.The whole job was completed in three weeks and the client was delighted with the finished work. With a 20-year insurance back-guarantee and a maintenance-free waterproof membrane that will last as long as the roof stands, the client was once again left with total peace of mind that their buildings could not be better protected.

The meticulous refurbishment of this Grade II Listed landmark provides a stunning range of luxuriously specified apartments. Buzon UK were specified to install the PB pedestal system to support two large (220sqm and 180sqm) hardwood decked outdoor terrace areas. This project was particularly challenging due to the many curved planters, upstands, steps and seating areas but the PB pedestal range can be adjusted from 28 to 965mm to create different height levels and the ergonomic design makes it easy for accurate and effective installation. The finished private roof terraces provide residents with the perfect outdoor space.

A 2,600m² high rise rooftop is transformed into a functional and attractive communal space with decking supported by Ryno RPF fixed-head adjustable decking pedestals.

Designed by Grimshaw, with master planning by Arup, the Istanbul New Airport is a new ‘mega-airport’, replacing the city’s Atatürk Airport, which will have six runways and the capacity to handle up to 200 million passengers annually once fully operational by 2030.Heralded as the major hub at the intersection of Asia, the Middle East and Europe, the scale of the €7bn project is illustrated by the fact that 20,000 workers were employed on-site at one time, supported by 58 cranes.To protect maintenance teams with restraint systems, removing the possibility of a fall, the responsible contractor selected to use the Horizontal Lifeline system from SFS. This UK-designed and manufactured system has been installed across the 400,000 sq. m standing seam roof, with 2,200 high load posts, which feature a special customized surface finish, interlinked by 18km of stainless steel wire. The result is a highly effective fall protection solution that is aesthetically sympathetic and comfortably accommodates the design intent.The system was part of a package of building envelope solutions provided by the SFS Group. This included a range of high performance SFS SL2, SD6-5.5 and SD14 fasteners for the standing seam roof, plus thousands of GESIPA BULB-TITE® blind rivets. Close collaboration between the SFS teams in the UK and Turkey ensured the client could take full advantage of a tailor-made package backed with market-leading technical support and a team resourced to fulfill the tight delivery schedule.SFS Fall Protection Systems are designed to provide fall protection on trapezoidal roof profiles, standing seam and flat roofs. The system is fully stainless steel manufactured, tested and certified to EN795:2012 and CEN/TS16415:2013.

In 2014 discussions took place between IKO and Architect for the property, over the possibility of renewing the mastic asphalt roof coverings with an IKO Permaphalt Polymer Modified Mastic Asphalt System. During 2015 this process took place with the work being undertaken by Knight Asphalte, one of IKO’s Approved Contractors. During the works some 35 tonne of IKO Permaphalt was installed and due to IKO’s commitment of supplying Carbon Neutral Mastic Asphalt we are able to calculate the impact this has on the population.

After testing Millboard in situ for six months, where it passed the test for anti-slip and hassle-free maintenance, Coventry University asked their landscape architects, Plincke, to incorporate Millboard into their space design. As the university is in a built-up, urban area, there was little recreation space for students and staff, with limited space at ground level to create parks or gardens. The Millboard collection’s versatility made it ideal for Plincke’s innovative roof terrace design. The final result is a stunning, all-weather space in the heart of the city.

Glazing Vision rooflights were used in the re-construction of this mews house situated in the prime real estate and conservation area of Mayfair, London. The building is an exceptional example of stunning architecture and elegant, contemporary interiors. Whilst adding a majestic character to the mews itself with its dark brick façade and impactful balcony, the outer appearance belies the vast size of the residence internally. After the demolition of the former mews house and after 2 years of construction, which had even necessitated underpinning the neighbouring houses, this property now accommodates a basement with indoor pool, lower ground floor with cinema room, open plan living and dining space, 2 floors of bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as additional terraced balconies.Keeping the interiors bright and airy throughout was key to the design concept – floor to ceiling windows and Flushglaze Walk On Rooflights from Glazing Vision were installed to maximise the daylight where it would have been otherwise compromised on the ground and second floors. In addition, a Glazing Vision 3 Wall Box Rooflight provides unimpeded access from an internal staircase to the impressive roof terrace, which is recessed down 1 1/2metres between 2 pitched roofs and which offers a vast outdoor space for entertaining, dining and relaxing.Two Flushglaze Walk On rooflights were specified by the architect to negate the risk of potential dark spots appearing in the dining zone and living area on the ground floor. Engineered by Glazing Vision to bespoke sizes and to meet the future projected foot traffic upon them, they were seamlessly integrated into the balconied terrace on the second floor, thus shedding light through to the bench seating in the kitchen and lounge.Their minimal internal framework was in keeping with the contemporary aesthetic of the interior, and both rooflights augment the quality and quantity of light entering this open plan area, even extending out towards the central stairwell and landing.Two further custom-sized Flushglaze Walk On Rooflights installed on the roof terrace add an intricate design detail but also create a wow factor. Perfect for flat roof terraces, these rooflights lie flush with the wooden decking. Again tested to allow for regular foot traffic and to bear the weight of terrace furniture, the rooflights offer complete safety and watertight integrity. On the second floor below, the two windowless bathrooms are flooded with the light coming through these rooflights – indeed such is the brightness of these rooms that privacy blinds have been installed for occasional use.Seeking to optimise the very large roof space that had been created (4m x 8m) the architect specified Glazing Vision’s 3 Wall Box Rooflight, which would offer easy access all year round to the roof terrace and also provide a contemporary glass feature. For the accommodation of the 3 wall mounted box rooflight a timber box frame had to be built which abutted the exposed brick wall behind.The property’s imposing central staircase provides access to the box rooflight, which in turn maximises the light falling down the stairwell to the bottom of the house. At a touch of a button from an access keypad, the sliding roof retracts to give a 50% clear opening with no “bowing of the head” necessary. The operation is quiet and safe, and the provision of a rain sensor ensures closure from inclement weather.

After securing funding via the CIF application, Knighton Fields Primary Academy was able to address some of the long-term issues they had in relation their roof, which was beginning to show signs of wear.ChallengesThe existing waterproofing had been suffering with significant amounts of standing water, water ingress, structural deck failure (localised), poor thermal insulation, and several tired old and dilapidated lantern roof lights. All roof areas needed to be inspected and level surveyed and, in one localized area, the existing waterproofing and deck had to be entirely stripped and removed owing to significant deflection and fear of collapse. The works needed to progress swiftly so as to provide minimal disruption to the school environment.SolutionsAfter inspection, proposals were put forward for a tapered insulation overlay where deemed necessary, to help improve falls to existing outlets and rid the problem of standing water. In most instances, the existing roof covering was simply overlaid and formed part of the new Air and Vapour Control Layer (AVCL) before a new Hytherm ADH flat/tapered insulation board and two-layer fully adhered Excel RBM system was installed over this. On the area where the existing waterproofing had been stripped, the deck was replaced (to falls), a new AVCL installed and the same Excel warm roof system was carried through to complete these areas.Works progressed throughout the summer holidays to avoid any disruption to the school or pupils. NFRC Safe2Torch principles were observed, prescribed and employed as part of the scope of works. An Insurance backed Guarantee covering design, materials and workmanship was issued upon practical completion of the works and following successful sign off from the Axter in-house QA team (who monitored the procession of works from start to finish) to the client, indemnifying their risk and protecting the building and its occupants for a period of 25 years.Systems in useExcel®

Rockfon® Lamella has been awarded Product Innovation of the Year in the Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment category of the FIS Innovation Awards 2023. The modular wall system provides Class A sound absorption for commercial projects and boasts a unique range of wood veneers in different colours and dimensions, allowing for an impressive 650,000 design combinations.Nigel Watkins, Commercial Sales Director for Rockfon, expressed his excitement about the recognition, saying, "We are thrilled that Rockfon Lamella has won this award only a few weeks after its launch." Rockfon Lamella's development was based on effective collaboration, knowledge transfer, and partnership along the project team, satisfying two initial criteria for Rockfon innovation: modularity and customisability, and occupiers' well-being through the use of colour, biophilic-inspired design, and natural surfaces.Combining the warmth and beauty of wood with a stone wool sound-absorbent panel, Rockfon Lamella creates a serene and inviting environment inspired by the biophilic design trend. Customers have expressed their satisfaction with the combination of these elements, with Nigel Watkins sharing that "The feedback we’ve had from customers is that the combination of a stone wool sound absorbent panel with biophilic wood makes interiors feel calm and connected to nature."Joe Cilia , Technical Director of FIS who was one of the Innovation Award judges, was impressed that Rockfon Lamella has such comprehensive test data, covering the whole system, not just individual components. “The furniture, fixtures and equipment (FFE) sector suffers from a lack of standardised testing and compliance for acoustic and fire performance, leading to clients choosing products that don’t perform as well as they should. The judges were impressed that Rockfon Lamella has clear, transparent test data that shows how the whole system performs.”Rockfon Lamella sets itself apart from other acoustic fixtures and fittings by offering exceptional fire performance classification of c-S2,d0, in line with EN 13501 standards, and Class A sound absorption that adheres to ISO 11654 regulations. Additionally, accessing all the necessary specification data, BIM Objects, and CAD drawings on NBS Chorus, NBS Source, and pCON is quick and easy, making the specification process quick and effortless.Rockfon Lamella simplifies installation by providing a complete kit that includes all necessary components. In-house facilities teams can easily follow the straightforward installation process, thanks to specially designed mounting clips. As Teemu Rekonen, Head of Design & Innovation at Rockfon, highlights: "This advanced product... enables individual placement of the slats to create the perfect acoustic environment. Once the platform is in place, installing Lamella slats is a quick and hassle-free process that requires no tools".Visit www.soundsbeautiful.com/lamella  for more information on Rockfon Lamella.To view all the FIS Innovation Award winners visit www.thefis.org/membership-hub/fis-awards/innovation/

About the projectFrisby Lakes Lodge Park is an award-winning East Midlands site with a plan to develop 59 luxurious Finnish Log lodges made from 100% renewable material. Situated in the beautiful Leicestershire countryside with lodges overlooking a large fishing lake, this stunning park has a lot to offer for those wishing to move to an upcoming, safe-haven location for the over 45’s including beautiful electric-operated FAKRO roof windows.These timber-built Finnish Log lodges use materials sourced from managed forests and other controlled sources, which are crucial to sustainability and are FSC® certified. FAKRO roof windows add to the eco credentials as they use FSC-certified pine to make their high-quality pine frames.Which FAKRO products are installed?Installed into the luxury lodges are FAKRO’s FTW-V P2 Z-Wave roof windows with ARF Blackout Z-Wave blinds that are controlled remotely. At the flick of a switch, residents are able to specify the airflow through the room as well as automating the operation of the blinds, giving them the best of both worlds in one window system! Why were FAKRO products chosen?The eco-credentials of FAKRO windows were very important to this build. In terms of environmental impact, FAKRO products are designed to provide the highest standards of thermal efficiency while being manufactured using replenishable natural resources.

More than 1,600 litres of Textrol Oil Clear were applied to the Velodrome and whilst we still cannot produce a proper case study until the games has finished, there is some evidence out there now.The 12,000 square metre roof is constructed using a very lightweight double curving cable net, suspended from a steel structure. Beneath it, the oval track is 250m in length, engineered for speed and constructed with great precision entirely from wood.The exterior of the building is clad in 5,000m2 of custom-cut Western Red Cedar shiplap boards. The entire exterior cladding was coated with Owatrol Textrol oil.

The Flat Glass Skylight allows you to enjoy natural daylight. The skylight will provide you with a clean appearance in the external roof scope, the toughened outer glass pane has a ceramic edge coating giving you an immaculate and stylish finish. The range comes complete a 160mm high vertical insulated PVC kerb/ upstand. The slim aluminium frame has a internal thermal break allowing it to be energy efficient whilst also reducing the risk of internal condensation. The skylight comes complete with fixing screws which once installed are fully concealed beneath a flush cover creating a sleek and tidy external appearance.

Members-only club in London’s Covent Garden, The Conduit Workspace focuses on sustainability and ethical hospitality, encouraging creativity and collaboration.Featuring relaxed working and dining spaces as well as event space, a library, and rooftop bar and restaurant, it spans across six floors offering everything needed to connect its members.The brand new rooftop terrace was created in partnership with the House of Champagne, Ruinart, with the goal to place nature at the heart. The rooftop features plants chosen specifically for pollination as well as upcycled and recycled furniture and art.To complete the rooftop extension, designer, Alice Crispi, approached us after seeing our RailRoad seating range - she wanted a continuous wavy modular solution that would also accommodate large planter pots within the curved sections. A 15m RailRoad Delta seat with a continuous backrest was delivered in modules making it easily transported to the roof terrace. A UVP protective coating in teak was also applied over the timber slats to maintain the wood’s colouration.Surrounded by greenery, members can relax and enjoy stunning views across London from the rooftop terrace.

In a small town just outside Stirling in Scotland is this beautiful, traditional property built from Scottish sandstone. The new owners have extended and completely refurbished the house, originally built in 1870. Although modernised and featuring some contemporary features the original charm has been kept.In order to maximize natural light, a total of 10 Clement Conservation Rooflights were installed. These not only look beautiful in the traditional Welsh slate roof but also improve thermal efficiency and are low maintenance.The homeowner said: “We are delighted with our Clement Conservation Rooflights. We have now fitted ten into our period house renovation and they look great.“Quality wise they are solid and well built, no problems with manual winders, and the double glazing, sound proofing and heat retention is brilliant. We searched around and Clement seemed a good price for the quality. Dealing with them as a company has been a pleasure, always helpful with sound advice and never a delay in delivery dates.“We have been lucky enough to work with very talented and courteous craftsmen and suppliers - like Clement, who went the extra mile to make sure that we fully understood the options available and helped us create the perfect home.”

The 16,500m2 new Faculty of Social Sciences building is designed to meet the future growth demands of the department up to the year 2035 and creates a world class, BREEAM outstanding building that encourages collaboration and enhances the Faculty’s reputation for excellence in teaching and research.The landscape design for the new University of Sheffield building set out to create a large area of public realm on the social sciences campus, with provision for sustainable drainage systems including extensive use of tree pits and rain gardens. As part of the SuDS design specifications, a Blue Roof stormwater drainage system was considered as an alternative option to underground attenuation tanks to keep surface water run-off within the discharge consent.ABG were able to demonstrate that specifying a shallow Blue Roof attenuation layer involved much lower carbon emissions than excavating underground storage tanks.The volume of vehicle movements required to install underground stormwater attenuation compared to the ABG blueroof system was calculated (delivered from ABG’s factory based 25 miles away), and a carbon footprint saving of 59% was estimated. The reduction in construction emissions was deemed particularly important given the site’s proximity to the Royal Hallamshire Hospital.The 108mm ABG blueroof system design was fitted over a 4,500m2 roof catchment area by the ABG Installs team over a period of 8 weeks. The inverted roof system build-up includes a 245mm XPS insulation installed onto the waterproofing with a Water Flow Reducing Layer (WFRL) above. The ABG Deckdrain 4mm geocomposite drainage layer is installed above a 100mm void former, wrapped in a Terrex NW20 geotextile layer to prevent debris entering the drainage voids. The roof build-up is completed with a surface finish combination of stone ballast and 63mm pavers.For the majority of the year, the roof drains into the rainwater outlets as normal, however during prolonged spells of heavy rainfall the void formers begin to temporarily attenuate the stormwater. During storm periods the rainfall outflow rate is slowed using 13 stainless steel restrictor chambers, positioned above each rainwater outlet.This controls the volume of water that is able to discharge from the roof during the storm, minimising surface water run-off and reducing the risk of flooding in the local area. The system is calculated to only reach maximum attenuation volume during a 1-in-100 year storm event, as calculated using the Flood Estimation Handbook rainfall data for Sheffield, plus 40% allowance for climatic change. The system features an integrated overflow outlet in the event a storm occurs that exceeds this designed capacity.

Roofspace Solutions originally specified firestopping materials from various manufacturers for its unique i-Roof system. However, when browsing the market for a supplier that could provide a complete firestopping solution, Roofspace opted for ARC Building Solutions array of products for its quality, certification and reputation within the housebuilding industry.

The Ascent Aluminium fixed ladder system was specified to create a permanent safe access route to the roof via a roof access hatch at Sheffield University Hoops were provided throughout for fall protection and the ladder was designed to BS 4211:2005 + A1 2008 and was manufactured in accordance with CE 1090 factory production control procedures. To assist the user when exiting on to the roof surface a ladder up post was included within the design. The ladder up post provides something for the user to grab hold of when both climbing out of & into the hatch, providing an additional level of user security.

CUPA PIZARRAS’ CUPA 18 natural slate has been used to achieve a high-quality finish on three luxury, modern, new build properties in one of the most desirable areas of Whitstable in Kent. The new properties, built by local property designer and developer specialist Kapra Developments, are located in Island Wall, Whitstable, close to both the town centre and the scenic Kent coastline. The three storey, five bedroom luxury properties are each in excess of 360 square metres and benefit from views over the nearby golf course.  The unique design of the houses features extensive use of dark grey aluminium glazing systems including rooftop lanterns and large sloping roof windows. The placement of the expansive glazing as well as the layout and orientation of the buildings was devised to maximize the natural light and make the most of the surrounding landscape. In addition to the CUPA 18 natural slate, the design also includes high quality natural timber cladding, sedum green roofing and natural stone blockwork. Kim Brown, Director at Kapra Developments explained: “For the properties on Island Wall, the quality of the materials was very important and the coastal location meant that a durable product was essential. We had used CUPA PIZARRAS’ products on previous projects and so we were confident that the CUPA 18 slate would provide the look, quality and longevity we wanted.” CUPA 18 is a lighter grey slate with a smooth matt surface and has a superior, homogenous finish with only minor variations allowed in the thickness and flatness of the slate. The slate roofs were installed by Bates (Kent), a family owned contractor based near Canterbury, who has worked with Kapra Developments on a number of previous projects. David Clarke, Company Secretary at Bates said: “The Island Wall properties presented a few complexities and challenges due to the steep pitch of the roof and the need to integrate the slate with the other elements such as the large format glazing.  “We’ve used CUPA products on a number of contracts and found the slates very easy to work with. The strength and quality of the slates means that we are able to reduce the amount of wastage compared with other products.” Kim Brown concluded: “To achieve the intended result for these properties has required hard work from everyone involved. We are once again delighted with CUPA PIZARRAS’ products and are pleased with how that element of the build has progressed.” CUPA PIZARRAS’ natural slate is sustainably extracted from quarries in northern Spain. It has an exceptional life span of 100 years and requires minimal maintenance throughout its lifetime.

Chelmsley Wood Shopping CentreBauderflex bituminous waterproofing systemSynopsisChelmsley Wood Shopping Centre, located in East Birmingham, was experiencing leaks with their current flat roof waterproofing system and so they needed a quick, high quality solution to remedy the situation. Although competitors had suggested the only option was to strip the roof, Bauder found a more cost-effective answer by using our in house Troxler Moisture Gauge to identify any areas of wet roof construction, removing the saturated areas and then overlaying the whole roof area.Bauder Building BoardProject:Chelmsley Wood Shopping Centre Location:BirminghamProject Type:RefurbishmentRoof Area:4500m²Specifier:Black Cat ConsultancyApproved Contractor:BBR Roofing LtdProject challengesThe works were to be undertaken in the middle of winter on the existing single ply covering which kept freezing when the operatives were drying the surface. Fixing down of the insulation boards (to the existing waterproof covering) was a noisy operation which also exposed the retail tenant below to risk of water ingress. Work had to be undertaken on a roof where ridges and valleys had to be navigated whilst managing the waterflow.The specification allowed for the removal and replacement of the saturated areas as identified by our moisture mapping survey. This operation had to be planned to ensure that the retail stores were not put at risk in terms of water ingress, but still managed to keep the works progressing to schedule. This was particularly difficult due to the exposed site and the inclement weather encountered. The resultAs a result, Large sections of cable bespoke design had to be developed with Bauder to overcome these challenging site details without the need to decant the retail tenants below. trays and handrails had to be lifted in situ so the roof works could be completed without compromising electrical or mechanical install.By working closely with the centre, a method of work was developed which fulfilled these criteria in terms of waterproofing, health and safety and business protection of the shopping centre. System installedBauderflex bituminous waterproofing system1 BauderFLEX K4EA torch applied SBS elastomeric bitumen capping sheet, featuring spunbond polyester reinforcement to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture.2 BauderTEC Sprint DUOA self-adhesive elastomeric bitumen underlayer with DUO lap technology. This product has a glass fleece reinforcement feature for stability and strength.3 BauderPIR FA-TEFlatboard insulation boards containing rigid polyisocyanurate (PIR).4 BauderTHERM DS 1 DUOA self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen air and vapour control layer (AVCL) with patented “DUO” lap technology to ensure thorough sealing of lap joints, even in lower temperatures.

FOAMGLAS® Tapered T4+ (Slab)Design Architects: Renzo Piano Building WorkshopExecutive Architects: Adamson Associates, LondonMain Contractor: Mace; Roofing Contractor AC PLCConstruction: 2012Application: Warm Roof - FOAMGLAS® Tapered T4+ (Slab )Finish: Bitumen membranesFOAMGLAS® provided the ultimate solution for the roof maintenance platform of The Shard at level 75.Its light-weight and high compressive strength enable regular maintenance to be carried out without risk of surface damage.At 310 m, Shard Tower is one of Western Europe’s tallest buildings; exposed to extremes of temperature & the revolutionary structure sways up to 50 cm in high winds.The building maintenance platform on level 75 islocated directly above the viewing galleries, and essentially forms the Shard’s roof. To shed water, the flat metal platform required an insulation with a tapered top surface.In this extremely exposed location, and with significantloads upon the platform, a truly reliable solution was needed. FOAMGLAS® insulation combines compressive strength, long-term insulation performance.Using their "in house" CAD systems, FOAMGLAS® designed a bespoke Tapered Insulation system. Taking full advantage of its low coefficient of expansion, and to eliminate thermal bridging, FOAMGLAS® and its membranes were adhesive bonded onto the metal structure. The unique ability of FOAMGLAS® to withstand high compressive loads ensures regular maintenance work can be safely carried out without damage to the insulation or the membranes.Adamson Architects commented on this project: "FOAMGLAS® has proved itself to be the ultimate solution for the difficult loadbearing areas of the Shard. Specifying cellular glass insulation ensured complete integrity and performance in key areas of the Shard Tower".

Tailors Corner is one of Leeds’ most iconic city-center landmarks, and its refurbishment required contemporary design without detracting from the building’s original grandeur.A key new feature is a roof garden for the sole use of the sixth-floor occupier, and landscape designer John Davies Landscape Architecture wanted this to be a garden in its truest sense. Terrace system products from Raaft gave choice and versatility to ensure this vision became reality, while ensuring the finished results satisfied the requirements for durability and safety.Raaft also became the supplier of choice as the customer wanted a single source for all hard landscaping products and we met that requirement.

Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS vinyl adhesive has been used to install a luxury vinyl tile floor finish at the Pavilion Bar on Norfolk’s Cromer Pier ahead of BBC television programme ‘Antiques Roadshow’ shooting an episode from the pier. Contractors took up worn carpet tiles and securely screwed down plywood sheets over the boardwalk subfloor, prior to installing Altro Wood Safety LVT’s. Styccobond F49 was applied prior to the installation of LVTs. Unlike other water-based adhesives, Styccobond F49 is resistant to water, making it the ideal choice for an installation such as this situated directly above the sea.

Five domed design... CHALLENGE The idea of the architect was to design a building with 5 parabolic roof surfaces or domes. The unique five domed design comprises of pods finished in a range of different materials, each contributing to the development’s remit to blend into the park landscape. The biggest issue for the architect was how to connect these different materials to become a complete watertight building. SOLUTION Each dome is waterproofed using a RENOLIT ALKORPLAN system and whilst the complex is thought to be the UK’s largest timber-built geodesic project, it also demonstrates possibly the most innovative use of single ply membrane ever seen in the UK. By using the RENOLIT ALKORPLAN membrane as the main layer to waterproof the five domes an easy joint could be made by means of hot air. On one dome our RENOLIT ALKORPLAN A membrane was used in combination with PVC profiles providing geometric aesthetic detailing. On another dome a RENOLIT ALKORPLAN L membrane was used under a green roof system. On the other domes the RENOLIT ALKORPLAN F membrane was used in combination with our RENOLIT ALKORSOLAR fixing system supporting respectively glazed aluminium sheeting and cedar shingle tiles.

Ngurah Rai International Airport, which carries a unique and futuristic building design, is the first airport in Indonesia that blends modernity and tradition. The roof is shaped like a wave, giving the iconic airport a representation to Bali’s famous sea waves and beautiful beaches. The airport is designed with a substantial use of glass to achieve optimal lighting, and the climate means regular maintenance is required to prevent staining. A bespoke fall arrest system was designed to ensure operators are able to practice 100% Fall Arrest tie off work methods when conducting maintenance activities.

A stunning residential project in Longfield, Kent, saw multiple wetrooms installed and stylishly fitted with our products, creating both level entry access and a uniform look.

Step into the sunlight-soaked transformation of Jasmin and Liam’s home, where sustainability meets bespoke design. Passionate about making their home as much of a “Passive House” as possible, the homeowners embarked on a renovation journey and, with help from Vario by VELUX, incorporated our well-loved products—the Rectangular rooflight and Unlimited rooflight in key spots in their home.Read on to discover how Vario rooflights have effortlessly transformed an Edwardian house filled with dark rooms into a spacious sanctuary flooded with natural light and a healthy, sustainable home for the family for many years to come.Brightening up an Edwardian home with Bespoke Flat Roof WindowsIn August 2020, the couple found their dream home and aimed to create a healthy, sustainable lifestyle as they were working from home more than ever. Craving extra space, a larger garden, and a seamless outdoor connection, they sought to transform their house into a haven for both living and thriving. Despite the challenge of an Edwardian layout, they collaborated with Vario by VELUX to infuse every corner with natural light. Using bespoke roof lights, the plan was to flood key spaces like the kitchenA Passive House with Bespoke SkylightsAs seen on UK TV, our couple's journey to revamp their Edwardian home isn't just a makeover—it's a dive into sustainable living to get as close to a "passive house" as possible, which speaks volumes about their commitment to the environment. "I think that maximising natural light in the home is really important," shares Jasmin, underscoring the importance of a bright, naturally illuminated space.Focus on Daylight and VentilationInvesting in natural light goes beyond mere aesthetics; it's a dedicated commitment to enhancing well-being, as expressed by the homeowners; “That kind of investment in natural light really does help with all facets of our life and for our creativity and mental health.” The double-height space benefits from a roof window directly above the staircase, enabling natural light to reach the floor below. We firmly believe that the staircase wouldn't have that impressive "wow factor" without this addition!In a world where spending more time indoors has become the norm, Jasmin and Liam recognised the value of a home that embraces maximum light while retaining energy and warmth, ensuring nothing is lost to the outside atmosphere, and keeping the home energy-efficient.And in line with the idea of a passive house, the rooflight and glazing help to retain heat during winter, keeping heating bills lower.In their home cinema, they have a VELUX window and a made-to-fit VELUX blackout blind; this is a great example of how Vario rooflights can integrate with standard pitched roof windows. Get a complete VELUX solution for your home today.Elevate your home with Vario by VELUXCollaborating with Vario by VELUX means getting a completely personalised and curated flat rooflight solution. With this partnership, Jasmin and Liam have forged a newfound connection to the outdoors and will significantly improve their family's long-term well-being. Their story serves as a roadmap for those looking to infuse a touch of modern technology, bespoke design, and thoughtful interior design into their homes.Ask our daylight expertsFeeling inspired? See how Vario by VELUX can transform any space with our Design A Rooflight tool, or Book a Call with our daylight experts today to discover how we can help you.Please note: Our installation service is currently only available in selected southern areas of the UK.

The new store was built as a main contractor’s design and build shell construction, with a traditional Morrison fit out, and involved working with two design teams simultaneously. The store was one of the first new stores to incorporate Morrison’s new “hybrid heat reclaim system”, and also incorporated a series of photovoltaic panels and wind turbines on roof areas to contribute to the renewable energy targets required by the local Planning Authority for this new development.DrillFast low profile A4/316 stainless steel fasteners were utilised as part of the design, with lacquered heads blending in with the panel for a barely noticeable finish."Thank you all at Fixfast - you make my job easier"Paul Guyton - Senior Designer

Product: RapidDeckProject: Residential BalconiesSize: 65m²Completed in: 3 days

The regeneration of Swansea’s old docklands has seen old, dilapidated warehouses transformed into exciting mixed-use projects. Residential, commercial, as well as valuable retail space now occupy the area, collectively known as ‘The Urban Village’. Construction of the new-build 9-storey residential apartment block by the main contractor R&M Williams, saw RCM engaged as an important supplier. As well as providing the essential aluminium support frame, RCM also ensured timely delivery of the colourful Swisspearl façade. Each panel was fabricated by RCM to exact specified size, saving precious time on the construction of the building.

The Lothian was chosen for a 35-unit housing development just outside the market town of Ashbourne in Derbyshire.