"concrete"

The Lakhta Center is a large mixed-use non-residential development featuring the first supertall skyscraper in St. Petersburg. The 87 floor, 462 metre superstructure consists of a cylindrical reinforced concrete core. Due to exceptional reinforcement volumes, Ancon reinforcing bar couplers and headed anchors were used extensively in the construction of the foundation raft to avoid unnecessary overlapping of bars and minimise congestion. Nearly 80,000 CXL32 couplers were used for the splicing of 32mm horizontal reinforcing bars, and over 45,000 CXL32HA and 6,000 MBT ETHA32 headed anchors were used at the extremities of the reinforcement at the edges of the raft.

Storm Model Management is renowned for finding, developing and managing careers for some of the world's top modelling talent. In the heart of the London office, on a polished concrete floor, Planet Partitioning created a striking stadium meeting room using p20 curved glass at both ends and linear joints between the partitioning to ensure a crystal clear, flawless, flush finish. By curving the partitioning channels carefully and then manufacturing and engineering the glass to fit, Planet achieved an excellent curved glass partitioning effect. Eclipse sliding doors were used for the lobby area, ensuring a seamless look throughout the space.

Leviat’s Halfen HIT balcony connectors provide a high strength insulated connection for the unique wavy cantilevered balconies that wrap-round Worthing’s new landmark 15 storey towerAt 52 metres, the 15-storey Bayside Vista dominates the Worthing seafront, providing an ambitious centrepiece to spearhead the local council’s regeneration agenda.Designed by architects, Allies and Morrison, for Client and Main Contractor, Roffey Homes, the tower is by far the tallest building in Worthing. It provides an eye-catching marker building for the small Bayside development of 141 homes, a restaurant, and commercial units, which fronts the sea at the eastern reach of the town’s historic promenade.Taking inspiration from the metal verandas and intricate filigree work of the town’s Regency terraces, the architects have decorated the otherwise plain glazed facades with deep undulating balconies that completely encircle the building at every storey, creating a unique skin effect that elevates the design to another level. Recognised for its distinctive architecture, Bayside has become a powerful landmark having won prestigious awards including the RIBA South East Award 2023 and Building Beauty Award 2023. Unique cantilevered balconies required impressive load capacities and fire safety.The unique balcony structures are created using a continuous band of 225mm thick reinforced concrete that cantilevers out from the edge of the concrete floor slabs at every level. To create the undulating effect, the balcony slab varies in projection between 2.5m and 3m.Offset at each level, the slabs are precambered to increase load carrying capacity and edged with a balustrade of closely coupled white uprights, creating a rippling stack effect to mimic the random effect of waves breaking on a sandy beach.To maximise the visual effect, the client was keen to achieve the largest possible cantilever, whilst minimising deflection and movement due to the weight of the heavy concrete balcony structure. Adding to this, was the need to find a support solution that would deliver excellent fire safety as well as minimising thermal bridging between the structural floor slab and external balcony structure, in line with the client’s ‘fabric first’ approach to minimising energy use.Leviat's history of success made Halfen HIT the ideal solution.The decision was taken to use Leviat’s Halfen HIT range for the high-profile project due to the brand’s reputation and history of previous successful use on similar applications across Europe.Leviat produced a solution using its Halfen HIT-SP MVX connector, a special thermal connector specifically designed for high loadbearing applications in a cantilevered balcony slab. The high strength connectors, which were cast into the concrete slab edge during pouring, are specifically designed to transfer bending moments and high positive or negative shear forces, so were particularly applicable for the support of the very heavy continuous balcony structure.  The most thermally efficient balcony connector in the Halfen range, the HIT-SP MVX connector includes a special cassette section which places a 120mm thickness of non-combustible mineral wool across the joint to prevent thermal bridging and carries a 2-hour REI 120 fire rating for improved fire safety and performance.Façade Engineers, Cladding Consultancy Services, fitted a total of 2,500m of the CE marked Halfen HIT connector, which was manufactured in 1000mm lengths for ease of handling. All materials were supplied direct to the seafront site from Leviat’s facility in Houghton Regis. All images are ©Tim Crocker 2024.

DescriptionSmet Supported Partner, B Team Shopfitters machine applied the LIDL External Render System onto Poroton blocks externally using as Base Coat: Bauprotec 850 M – Lightweight Lime Cement Render and as Finish Coat; Mineral Finish Coat K.  As Key Coat: Change of substrate concrete/steel pillar/Poroton block or mass concrete and insulated plinths: Bauprotec RHS Multi-Purpose Render with the addition of Bauprotec SLP for plinths.The Internal Render System specification onto Poroton blockwork consists of a base of Coat: Bauprotec 850 M, Lightweight Lime Cement Render, sponge floated in warehouse areas, and skim finished in sales areas. Key Coat: Change of substrate concrete/steel pillar/Poroton block: Bauprotec RHS is used.The LIDL render spec, available from SMET consists of:Bauprotec 850 M is a factory-produced Lightweight Lime Cement Render, specially designed for machine or hand application produced to EN 998-1: 2010 and is CE Marked.Bauprotec RHS is a CE Marked, factory-produced highly polymer-modified render specially designed for hand and machine application produced to EN 998-1: 2010.Mineral Finish Coat – K is a CE marked, factory-produced mineral-based, high-quality finish-coat render, specially designed for hand and machine application to EN 998-1, 2010.Bauprotec SLP is a CE Marked, factory-produced Lightweight Sand & Cement Render specially designed for hand and machine application produced to EN 998-1: 2010.The special render properties; lightweight, low thermal conductivity, high yield, and Smet Supported Partner superior technical backup, are key factors in choosing SMET. SMET is committed to delivering consistently superior quality, German-made Render Systems to Lidl Plastering and rendering/plastering contractors across the UK and ROI.  If you’d like to speak to us about your Lidl job – contact SMET.All LIDL spec SMET Render System products are available directly from Smet Building Products Ltd, which ensures the contractor has a superior level of technical backup in the machine application of the LIDL specification.Related DownloadsTDS CASEA Bauprotec 850 M – Lightweight Lime Cement RenderTDS CASEA Bauprotec RHS – Multi-Purpose RenderTDS CASEA Bauprotec SLP Tanking and Plinth RenderTDS CASEA Mineral Finish Coat – KSMET Render and Plaster Product Selector

Third Space has opened its sixth and most luxurious health club in London with spacious training areas, state-of-the-art facilities, tranquil yoga studio, 20m adult pool, cycle amphitheatre and special facilities for youngsters.Free Weights AreaTVS Group’s heavy-duty, interlocking SPORTEC® Style Tiles, custom-produced black and grey-flecked finish perfectly completemented the gym’s colour scheme. Installing a layer of SPORTEC® Team Cup-X flooring beneath the tiles provided extra protection for the concrete subfloor and will further reduce noise and vibrations, while TVS proprietary rubber ramped edges created a neat transition with adjacent gym areas.Stetching AreaTo offer comfort and durability for the club’s large stretching area, TVS Group installed its SPORTEC® MotionFlex product, a fine-grained polyurethane puzzle-mat. It is ideal for fitness applications involving floor-based movements and wellness activities. The interconnecting tiles are simple to install and neatly shaped to suit most flooring schemes while their elegant dark grey colour set the calming mood for this part of the gym.Athletics-Based Track AreaTVS Sports Carpet was selected for the track as it offers excellent grip underfoot, especially relevant for speed, agility and quickness drills. The durability of the surface also allows athletes to push or drag a sled, helping to further develop their muscular strength and endurance. The track was supplied in a cool, oceanic navy blue and white colour scheme.Main Gym AreaThe expected high usage of the main gym area meant the flooring had to be sufficiently resilient. To achieve this and to ensure a perfectly level flooring finish across the gym, TVS Group first laid a dense rubber shock pad over the concrete substrate. It was overlaid with a covering from the highly wear resistant SPORTEC® Purcolor range. A light grey finish was chosen to reflect the sophisticated look and feel of the club.The StudioIn the studio, where high intensity training will take place, TVS Group opted for a highly elastic shock-absorbing underlay overlaid with a wear-resistant performance layer called SPORTEC® Color. The combination will protect the concrete substrate below while offering a comfortable and safe surface above for those involved in a diverse range of training activities.Other Fitness AreasIn other areas of the gym TVS Group supplied and installed a variety of high performing acoustic underlays, helping reduce noise and vibrations caused by treadmill running and other high impact activities in the studios.

Fed up of renting in London, Joe and Lina decided to build their own on a tiny 38m² plot of land in East London. With a budget of just under £200k they set about delivering Joe’s innovative concept for a six half-floor house with floating concrete slab, designed to maximise the space into a 83m² home, all whilst being filmed by Channel 4’s Grand Designs. However, things soon went south…Within weeks of the project beginning in October 2015, rogue contractors had performed a disastrous basement excavation attempt contrary to the Structural Engineer’s instructions, leaving unsupported banks of earth falling in beneath the street and shutters bursting inwards under the weight of the concrete.This first attempt, described as “spectacularly shambolic” by Kevin McCloud, more than doubled Joe and Lina’s budget for the excavation from £48k to £100k, and caused months of delays in order to get the project back on track.Having already contacted Newton Waterproofing Systems to consult on the poor workmanship, Joe and Newton soon determined that if he were to save his home and get it out of the ground, he would need a specialist contractor to actively communicate, collaborate and listen to him as both the engineer and client.MJ Rooney Construction came on board as contractors in November 2015, and following discussions to determine exactly what was required, modelled the entire project in 4D to ensure that all potential difficulties were solved before work began.With the right lines of communication in place, work recommenced in late January 2016, with the first challenge being to make safe a 3.5 metre high bank of unsupported earth with sheet piles, before creating a new and waterproof structural shell of reinforced concrete.With the shell of the structure in place, Newton and MJ Rooney’s next challenge was a much more welcome one, as they created a bespoke waterproofing solution to accommodate Joe’s ingenious design for a suspended reinforced slab that acted as both a floor and a prop force against the lateral pressure from the basement walls.This entire slab rested on brackets designed by Joe and his structural engineer, insulating it from the external walls by ensuring minimal contact, and only making contact through insulated blocks with enough compressive strength to take the vertical loading. The design also created a cavity around the slab that can be fully insulated, allowing the slab to be used as a thermal mass inside the building without having to insulate the entire external envelope.Working closely with Joe, a solution was devised that enabled the continuity of the waterproofing behind the brackets without compromising the structural design.

Leading UK utility contractor, Telent, have used UltraCrete’s superb ironwork installation materials to repair and install a CW1 access cover in Sutton Coldfield.BackgroundAs part of their ongoing commitment to maintaining the UK’s national utility infrastructure, Telent have used UltraCrete’s latest product innovation Mortar Buoy® to repair a chamber and install a CW1 ironwork access cover in the West Midlands.The ChallengeLocated on a busy junction, it was crucial that the repair and installation of the CW1 cover was carried out quickly to minimise disruption to motorists. With a reputation drawing on decades of experience in the design, build, support and management of the UK’s critical infrastructure, it was imperative that Telent used reputable installation materials that had been tried, tested and proven to work in the road network.The SolutionUltraCrete’s independently tested and approved ironwork installation system was specified by BT Openreach to complete the project.The new CW1 cover was installed using the Install Plus method. To begin, Mortar Buoy® was inflated in the existing chamber to prevent debris falling into the cavity and causing potential damage to the network. Once inflated, the team were able to use Mortar Buoy® as internal shuttering and repair the damaged chamber using QC10 F rapid strength flowable concrete.QC10 F, part of UltraCrete’s range of high specification concretes, is rapid setting fibre modified concrete for backfilling around manhole frames and gullies and for surface repairs.To complete the installation, Mortar Buoy® was used as a dam and Envirobed® CD534 Flowable was poured around the edges of a chamber for a permanent installation.Specially formulated for utility reinstatements, Envirobed® CD534 Flowable high performance bedding mortar is BT LN550 and LN320 compliant and offers superior compressive, tensile and flexural strengths in just 3 hours.Mortar Buoy® is a ground-breaking, innovative, inflatable access frame that acts as a dam, allowing for a flowable mortar ironwork installation in seconds – revolutionising traditional methods.Enhance your specification and upgrade your reinstatement with UltraCrete Mortar Buoy®.ResultsThe project took place on a mild winter day in December 2021. The work was completed without delay and with minimal disruption. Using Mortar Buoy® instead of a traditional damming mortar increased the speed of the installation, reduced costs and made the install less labour intensive for the team.On the performance of Mortar Buoy®, John Doherty, Area Supervisor for Telent commented: “Mortar Buoy® makes life much easier versus traditional shuttering for both chamber repair and bedding the ironwork. It is also much faster.”

The outstanding qualities of Sandtex Trade High Build Textured Decorative Coating deliver a long-term solution for the protection of buildings, capable of ironing out surface level imperfections at a stroke. Ideal for covering fine cracks and regulating repaired and uneven surfaces, this advanced masonry product offers exceptional coverage and flexibility, providing both a decorative and protective textured coating with the reassurance of 15 years’ durability, independently certified by the British Board of Agrément. Along with a long-lasting finish, the paint is formulated to maintain its good looks with anti-carbonation properties which protect concrete and metal from atmospheric erosion.

GEC Anderson’s stainless steel worktops, sinktops, doors and splashbacks have been chosen for the modern Café Bar at The Hepworth Wakefield art gallery in West Yorkshire, for their contemporary and accurate appearance as well as their hygienic qualities associated with food service. The stunning building is formed of ten different sized trapezoidal blocks constructed using pigmented, self-compacting concrete and recently listed in The Times ‘Top 50 Galleries in the World’. The continuous stainless steel worktop installed behind the main serving counter of the Café Bar incorporates sinks, plinth, cupboards doors and splashbacks, all in brushed satin stainless steel.

Cornes buildings are an ambitious residential in Santiago de Compostela, which is next to the first train station of Galicia . This is one of the reasons to promote this space for a new lifestyle . Carbajo Barrios architects use concrete elements for the façade to minimize the impact of sunlight on buildings as well as give a strong architectural character . Bandalux vertical blinds were chosen as a solar control system, creating visual harmony as well as efficient sunlight management . Polyscreen ® fabric perfectly complements the clean style of interior designs, allowing visual contact outside when desired by the owners . Our roller blinds are chosen with blackout fabrics for maximum privacy and intimacy .

Ebury Square is a development consisting of 71 one to five bedroom private apartments and a penthouse featuring opulent design and impeccable finishes. It has easy access to the Victoria Mainline, underground and Gatwick Express.Cellecta’s YELOfon HD10+ was specified by Squire & Partners due to the system being lightweight, easy to install, and delivers unrivalled acoustic performance when used to isolate a floating screed from a structural concrete floor. YELOfon HD10+ is an acclaimed resilient layer system that carries 3 proprietary Robust Details: E-FC-5, 17 & 18.Berkeley Group was awarded this 10,000m² contract to construct this development in the London borough of Belgravia.

Reflections is a complex of luxury waterside apartments, built in a contemporary style, most living areas look over Bournemouth Bay and Southbourne Overcliff Drive. The complex features four 3 bed and five 2 bed apartments.Cellecta’s YELOfon HD10+ was specified by Harlequin Homes due to the system being lightweight, easy to install, and delivers unrivalled acoustic performance when used to isolate a floating screed from a structural concrete floor. YELOfon HD10+ is an acclaimed resilient layer system that carries 3 proprietary Robust Details: E-FC-5, 17 & 18.Glossbrook was awarded this 400m² contract to construct this development in Bournemouth.

Harbour Central is a condominium complex in London’s Docklands, costing £17.6 million and comprising 642 private one, two, and three bedroom apartments divided across five residential buildings. This 30,000m² development also provides eight penthouse apartments with a leisure complex, all only minutes from Canary Wharf.Cellecta YELOfon HD10+ was specified by Rolfe Judd Architecture in this development for is unrivalled acoustic performance when used to isolate a floating screed from a structural concrete floor. This product also works in conjunction with underfloor heating.Galliard Homes UKS was awarded the contract to construct these luxury private apartments.

The 2014 Commonwealth Games’ swimming competition was played out at Tollcross International Swimming Centre. In anticipation of the games, the centre’s facilities underwent a complete refurbishment. Some of the screed below the tiles on the main competition pool floor had separated from the concrete pool tank. The entire floor needed to be re-laid. Glasgow City Council Scott hired, Tilecraft, a specialist tiling works company that delivers high quality tiles, to lay the tiles and specified products from ARDEX UK. A fast track solution which would produce high quality results was needed, and ARDEX UK seemed the logical choice.

Washroom's off-site service allowed the design to be carefully fine-tuned prior to installation on site for this prestigious office refurbishment project. Washroom's full height Alto toilet cubicle doors were specified with a real wood veneer finish, stained to match the solid Douglas fir timber panelling in the reception area. The bespoke polished cast concrete vanity units feature integral waste bins and Tego hinged mirror units above. For the new staff shower and changing room area Washroom's full height Alto FENIX shower cubicles were installed along with Z style Forza SGL lockers.

The UK’s second busiest airport, Gatwick Airport, is also home to a rail station which handles in excess of 20 million passengers annually – making it one of the 10 busiest stations in the UK outside of London.Network Rail are currently managing a redevelopment project at Gatwick station, which is being delivered by Costain. Part of this project is a new concourse for the station.The redevelopment of the station includes improvement works to create a larger, more accessible interchange between the station and airport. As part of the upgrades to platforms 5-7, Costain worked with Sika waterproofing products and Hanson for the concrete mix to ensure the rebuild was robust and would offer significant longevity.

Architect Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners specified Howe Green when they required a unique, reliable access solution for the WCEC. Howe Green designed and manufactured a circular access cover in 316-grade stainless steel. The bespoke cover offered a stylish and discreet solution, capable of withstanding 40kn load and meeting the specification for aesthetics and performance. Each box section of the cover had built-in cable access and voice/data plug-in points. Slotted steel lids were made for when services were in use. The access covers also accept coloured polished concrete inserts made to match the surrounding Ed Lazenby floor.

"You can hear it and feel the difference as soon as you walk in and start to talk"Due to new hybrid working we installed VC kit that better enabled remote calls and meetings for staff. When in-person colleagues around the meeting table would be in conversation with each other, audio would often cut out for those joining remotely, no matter how many speakers and microphones we had in the room. Generally, this was a poor meeting experience for those joining online and we had received feedback about this from our staff. Ceilings in the room are high with concrete beams and so this was probably contributing to the issues. 

The new site comprises a 20-cell custody suite and a three-storey office building, which accommodates more than 300 officers and staff and provides both Northamptonshire Police and Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, which shares the office building, with modern, 21st century facilities. Marshalls provided a range of products from the Landscape Protection portfolio for the exterior space, including Geo bollards, Geo seating, a Pluto cycle shelter and bespoke concrete planters. Due to the security required around this sensitive building it was important that the items of furniture specified had the required protection against potential accidental or criminal damage ...

Ultrascape's BS 7533 compliant mortar paving system has been used to deliver a modern and stylish forecourt outside Swindon railway station. The redevelopment has transformed what was previously a heavy traffic dominated area, into a prestigious pedestrian focused arrival space which features seating, planting, lighting and a millennium clock. Work was carried out by specialist civil engineering contractor, Britannia Construction and included the installation of 500 tonnes of high quality natural granite and Pennant Sandstone using Ultrascape's Pro-Bed HS fine bedding concrete, Flowpoint rapid setting grout and Pro-Prime slurry primer.

This mixed use development on the southern fringes of the Olympic Park utilised the Nexus® system to achieve flawless brick-faced soffits to the hundreds of door and window heads. Nexus is a two-part brick soffit system that combine a high integrity stainless steel brickwork support system with custom-designed prefabricated brick faced soffit units. Being 70% lighter than traditional cast concrete solutions, the Nexus soffit system is simply lifted and bolted into position by hand and, as the brick slip facing is manufactured from the same batch as the main brickwork, presents a perfect colour and texture match for flawless transitions.

‘Autobarn’ is an unusual build comprising an elegant five-bay garage and accompanying workshop sitting within the grounds of a Grade-II listed 18th-century home in Somerset.Designed by Bindloss Dawes Architects, the brief was to create a garage with an adjoining workshop to house the client’s classic car collection. The finished result is an aesthetically beautiful building with its deceptively simple wooden barn-themed styling using agricultural materials such as concrete and recycled wood under a zinc roof. With surfaces comprising steel, timber and polished concrete floor, the architects incorporated Troldtekt acoustic panels to clad both the walls and ceilings between the steel frames for sound absorption and to combat the issue of reverberating noise.The added advantage of having services hidden behind the white panelling means the final result is a stunning simplistic and minimalist design allowing the classic cars to be the focus of attention and transforming the space into more of a gallery than a traditional garage.Troldtekt acoustic panels are available in a variety of different surfaces and colours and combine sound absorption with a tactile surface. With an expected life cycle of at least 50 years and resistance to humidity and impact, they are available in various sizes and four grades, from extreme fine to coarse. The panels can be left untreated or painted in almost any RAL colour. Depending on the panel specified, reaction to fire is classed in accordance with EN 13501 as B-s1,d0 or A2-s1,d0 respectively. Founded on the Cradle-to-Cradle design concept and having attained Gold certification, Troldtekt wood wool acoustic panels are manufactured using wood from certified forests (PEFC™ and FSC®C115450) and can contribute positively to a building’s BREEAM, DGNB or LEED points. 

Berry Systems supplied and installed perimeter and ramp barriers for new multi-storey car park incorporating very thin  concrete decks.A revised design for the new Heathrow Terminal 2 multi-storey car park called for a floor depth of just 150mm comprising a 60mm deep slab with 90mm structural topping. However, and there’s always a however, a traditional rigid safety barrier post needs fixing with 4 bolts each to a depth of 170mm. Obviously these couldn’t be used,so contractors Laing O’Rourke turned to barrier specialists Berry Systems to provide a solution and appropriate perimeter barriers for the 6 decks and the spiral entrance and exit ramps.Over many years Berry Systems have developed a range of flexible spring steel barriers that ‘give’ on impact. This not only reduces damage to both the barrier and an impacting vehicle but crucially reduces the pull out loading on the anchorage by 50% or more. This in turn allows post fixing to be achieved by using only a single bolt embedded to a depth of merely 110mm - a depth achievable into the new slabs.The specification was completed with Berry Beam safety rails to provide a more attractive appearance than the well known “Armco” style. Post extensions provided mountings for a pedestrian handrail at 1100mm high with integral anti-climb mesh where needed.The thin slabs were developed by Bison Manufacturing and are the thinnest precast concrete planks produced to date in the UK. They led to many benefits which considerably reduced the construction programme. It also allowed 6 floors in the usual height of 5, increasing capacity to 1340 spaces. But perimeter protection would have proved problematical without the expertise of Berry Systems.

Riverwalk features two organically shaped buildings of 7 and 17 storeys, connected by a central podium and incorporating 116 high specification one, two, three and four bedroom apartments, plus penthouses. The design focus is on light, space and service, as well as exceptional views across the River Thames. Extensive planting on roofs, balconies and terraces, most significantly on the first floor podium terrace, also contribute to a substantial improvement in the green footprint and biodiversity of the site.With such a high specification development it is not surprising to find that enormous consideration was given to the avoidance of the thermal bridging at the critical balcony connections; and the structural thermal break module specified throughout is the latest generation Schöck Isokorb® XT type K. The XT type K – for concrete-to-concrete applications – offers such a high level of insulation that the Passivhaus Institute in Darmstadt has awarded the product with the "low thermal bridge construction" certificate and confirmed its suitability even for passivhaus construction.A major reason for the superior performance of the Schöck Isokorb® XT type K is the thickness of the insulation body. This is increased from the standard 80mm thick to 120mm, providing an even more efficient solution. The Isokorb® XT type K not only improves thermal insulation performance by up to 30% in comparison to to the standard range, it also improves impact sound insulation by around 50% as well. High quality stainless steel bars with improved tensile strength is an integral part of the unit and while the same load-bearing capacity is maintained, there is a smaller rod diameter and therefore a reduction in the thermally conducting cross-section, resulting in a further increase in the heat insulation performance.

The remarkable 22 Bishopsgate Project stands as the second tallest building in the United Kingdom and Western Europe, showcasing its architectural prominence. On its 58th floor, an awe-inspiring viewing gallery offers breathtaking vistas. Perched even higher, on level 59, a discreetly hinted restaurant is poised to offer an unparalleled dining experience, with a renowned chef at the helm. Although the details remain a secret, the restaurant promises to be a highlight. Beyond its striking stature and exclusive amenities, the project's core objective revolved around enhancing the base build construction to optimize noise levels for the activities and events within the Viewing Gallery. Aiming to strike a balance, the project sought to both amplify the permissible noise levels for these events while curbing any potential noise breakthrough into adjacent spaces.In the dynamic context of 22 Bishopsgate, where concrete installation was unfeasible due to location and occupied lower floors, a visionary solution was sought. Over 1246m², the innovative Stravifloor Channel floating floor system was meticulously installed. In lieu of concrete, a bespoke approach utilizing high mass calcium sulphate boards was designed, ensuring both functionality and practicality. Addressing concerns about floor height, custom-designed bearings were engineered to maintain top-tier acoustic performance, with a mere 30 mm thickness.Despite a demanding timeline to unveil the viewing gallery, the project remained on track. Stravifloor Channel, with isolated steel battens, played a pivotal role. Galvanized steel channels provided robust support over isolation pads, while the optimized discrete supports allowed minimal contact points to the subfloor.

THE PROJECTThe M3 Hackwood Road Bridge is located near Basingstoke on the M3 motorway. It required extensive concrete repair over large areas, due to water ingress causing the corrosion of the steel reinforcement through carbonation and chloride attack. The repairs were undertaken as part of the Scheme Delivery Framework (SDF) for National Highways. Continuity and half-cell tests carried out revealed weak areas within the bridge’s rebar.THE SOLUTIONSacrificial anodes were installed to the perimeter of all repair areas prior to Renderoc DS being used to spray back replacement material. Renderoc was selected as the best product solution due to its low rebound performance, which is well-known and tested in the market, having been used in many similar applications. Renderoc DS is fully compatible with all anode systems due to its low resistivity. This is true for a majority of the Renderoc range, meaning it can be use alongside cathodic protection. Renderoc HB45 hand applied mortar was also used where access was limited. Each phase of the repairs lasted approximately 2 weeks, involving breakout, continuity tests, anode installation, area preparation, spraying, and a 3 day curing period before moving onto the next section.THE BENEFITSThe corrosion and potential spalling of the existing concrete meant that there was a risk to health and safety of the bridge. If left unrepaired this could have also affected the capacity of the asset on a major UK motorway. The application process for each section of the repairs was significantly faster due to the spray application method and ensured a comprehensive restoration of the entire structure. Volker Laser completed all works on time and to program.

RENOLIT ALKORPLAN scores high on Deltion College! CHALLENGE A sports field on top of the roof. A surprising and exceptional RENOLIT achievement that absolutely draws the attention… Deltion College in Zwolle (NL) really is an exceptional case. This college offers amongst others education courses to prepare for service in the Armed Forces - Navy, Army as well as the Air Forces. No doubt sports are an important part of life on the campus. Then came the inspiration to install an artificial grass sports field on top of the roof of the newly constructed multifunctional building. Space-saving and functional! The choice to specify RENOLIT ALKORPLAN as roofing material was a shrewd decision, as RENOLIT ALKORPLAN offers a solution not only for mechanically fixed roofs but also for ballasted roof systems… SOLUTION The highest rooftop, a steel frame construction, has been installed with a PES-reinforced mechanically fixed RENOLIT ALKORPLAN F roofing membrane. For the lower concrete roof – the sports field to be – a different product was required: RENOLIT ALKORPLAN L! A glass fleece reinforced membrane with an excellent resistance to microorganisms, specifically conceived for ballasted roofs. Before installing the insulation, a bituminous vapour barrier was placed on top of the concrete. Next came a first layer of 70 mm thick aluminium-faced PIR insulation, followed by a second layer of 100 mm thick unfaced polystyrene insulation. To avoid direct contact between the roofing membrane and the PS insulation a glass fleece separation layer was added. Afterwards the RENOLIT ALKORPLAN membrane was loose laid and hot air welded. In accordance with the RENOLIT installation instructions the seams were sealed with RENOLIT ALKORPLAN seam sealer. A little bit of effort for extra security! 

Just a stone’s throw from Baden-Baden’s famous festival hall, a trendy and exclusive hotel has opened its doors in the name of Hotel Roomers. The hotel’s rooftop bar is a stand-out feature. Its lightweight steel canopy connects to the main concrete structure with Schöck Isokorb® type KS elements to minimize thermal bridging in the construction. And when it comes to getting a good night’s sleep, the stairwells are fitted with Schöck Tronsole® to stop impact sound transmissions and ensure a restful stay. The building itself is a hotel, medical centre and apartment block all in one, and its radiant white facade complete with full-height windows creates a striking effect. But the real highlight is how the facade changes its appearance depending on the guests decision to shut out the light in their rooms using the integrated window shading systems. It is not just the facade design that makes this hotel so special, but also its energy concept, which is testament to its ambitious efficiency targets. A crucial component of this concept involved minimising thermal bridges, which were a concern in the hotel’s landmark cantilevered entrance canopy. Without the Schöck Isokorb® type KS elements, it would have been difficult – if not impossible – to build the cantilevered element so efficiently and to decouple the structurally challenging thermal bridge at the point of connection between the freely cantilevered steel girders and the reinforced concrete slabs. All stairwells within the hotel feature the Schöck Tronsole®, which allow it to live up to the high expectations of the investors and building owner Franz Bernhard Wagner in terms of both energy-saving aspects and – of course – sound proofing.

The ModernGlide MG100 Top Hung Acoustic Wall is ideal for large auditorium spaces and halls where room heights can be up to 12 mtrs high.Movable Walls Key Facts & Specifications:Acoustic reduction from 37dB to 58dBTop-hung with no floor trackFixing to beam on concrete soffitPanel widths of 650mm to 1250mmHeight up to 12000mmInset pass door optionsSemi-electric top and bottom seal optionsStacking via single and double point suspensionFinishes include melamine, laminate, veneer, magnetic wipe boardIntegral glazing options30 minute and 1 hour fire rating options

The ModernGlide MG100 Top Hung Movable Acoustic Wall provides seamless room dividing options and is ideal for dividing your interior space.Movable Walls Key Facts & Specifications:Acoustic reduction from 37dB to 58dBTop-hung with no floor trackFixing to beam or concrete soffitPanel widths of 650mm to 1250mmHeight up to 12000mmFull height or inset pass door optionsSemi-electric top and bottom seal optionsStacking via single and double point suspensionFinishes include melamine, laminate, veneer, magnetic wipe boardIntegral glazing options30 minute and 1 hour fire rating options

Crystal Palace Football Club play at the legendary Selhurst Park Stadium, based in London. Crystal Palace Football Club has created a brand new 900m² `Fan Zone` which is divided into various settings, including stages, a huge LCD screen, dining areas, shops and a football skills exhibition space. Buzon UK were specified to supply the components to achieve the high live load requirements, which included voids of up to 500mm. The DPH Pedestal system was used, along with the Alfresco Floors Ebema range of high impact concrete pavers. Other areas on pedestals include artificial turf lawns, stages, walkways and ramps.

Victoria Square is a regeneration scheme that includes 35 new apartment homes, a “Livewell” health hub, pharmacy, Travelodge, bus interchange, café and restaurant overlooking a new public open space, and a twin-level car park. The 70 bed Travelodge will bring visitors and generate new jobs, while the bigger bus interchange will be able to provide services to meet the future needs of Braintree’s growing population.Cellecta’s YELOfon HD10+ was specified by AHR for this development as the system is lightweight, easy to install, and delivers unrivalled acoustic performance when used to isolate a floating screed from a structural concrete floor.Kier Group was awarded this 400m² contract to construct this regeneration scheme.

Cambridge Central Mosque is Europe's first eco-friendly mosque and the first purpose-built mosque within the city of Cambridge. The mosque is well insulated and naturally ventilated, using efficient heat lights in the roof and solar panels on the top to help generate renewable energy.Cellecta XFLO Micro was specified by Marks Barfield Architects as its underfloor heating insulation boards were used to help create an efficient and environmentally friendly heating system. Cellecta ScreedBoard 20 was also specified for the overlay floorboard. It is suitable for all types of steel, concrete and timber floors.Warmafloor were awarded this 250m² contract to develop this eco-friendly structure.

Berwick Green is a new planned development of 102, 2 bedroom flats and 156, 2, 3, and 4 bedroom houses seven miles north of the historic city of Bristol in Cribbs Causeway. This community provides the perfect blend of urban and coastal living with a wealth of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and schools.Cellecta’s YELOfon HD10+ was specified by Focus on Design due to its unrivalled acoustic performance in isolating a floating screed from a structural concrete floor. This product is lightweight, making it easy to install. YELOfon HD10+ is also delivered in rolls to ensure it’s easy to handle.Bellway Homes was awarded this 3,500m² contract for this Robust Detail Registered Site in South Gloucestershire.

Stopgap 300 HD smoothing underlayment and Stopgap P131 primer have been used to create a ‘textbook perfect’ flooring finish at Amtico’s training academy. Firstly, ceramic tiles were removed from the existing concrete subfloor along with remaining adhesive. Next, Stopgap P131 primer was used to help promote adhesion. Stopgap 300 HD fast-drying, heavy-duty levelling compound was applied to create a smooth, durable base for the new floorcovering. Luxury vinyl tiles were installed using a vinyl adhesive. Finally, entryway matting was installed on one half of the prepared subfloor and carpet tiles were installed on the other half.

A floor preparation system from F. Ball has been used to install 2,700m2 of floorcoverings at Glasgow University Library. First, old linoleum floorcoverings were removed. Over this area, Stopgap F77 waterproof surface membrane was applied due to excessive relative humidity levels. Stopgap 1200 Pro smoothing underlayment was applied on concrete sections of the subfloor. An F. Ball primer was applied to a ramp constructed from plywood before Stopgap 700 smoothing underlayment was used to receive floorcoverings. In the entranceway, Styccobond F46 adhesive was selected to install vinyl sheets, with Styccobond F41 carpet tile tackifier used to install carpet tiles.