"roof decking other materials"

Contacted by Tefken Construction, we designed, fabricated and supplied modular flat packs of both steel and GRP gratings, heavy duty barrier rails, gates, ladders, treads and handrails to the 'Chirag Oil Field'.Our designers ensured that all material and placements could withstand the given environment. Using both steel and GRP allowed for cost efficiencies for the client, while maintaining a great strength for their platforms and rails.Our modular flat packs allow the client to install their flooring and other items easily.Chirag is an offshore production, drilling and quarters (PDQ) platform located 120km east of Baku in the Caspian Sea, at a water depth of 120 meters.First oil from the platform was achieved on 28 January 2014.Total Chirag production was on average 53,000 barrels per day.

Location: Solihull, West Midlands Project Type: Hotel, Leisure Product: Spalding-Micropanel Material: Solid Sheet Aluminium 1050 AlloyFinish: Syntha Pulvin Architectural Polyester Powder Coating System in RAL 8002 Matt, RAL 8004 Matt, RAL 8012 Matt and RAL 8016 Matt Other products: System Flashings, Weatherstruck Coping, Window Surround System (inc. Jamb, Head flashing & Cill flashing inc. ventilation) in Syntha Pulvin RAL 7016 Matt, Column-Casings Syntha Pulvin RAL 7001 Matt Support system: Helping Hand Bracket & Rails Architects: Nixon Development Consultants Contractor: T. N. V. Construction Ltd Sub Contractor: G. F. S. Supplies Ltd

The children’s hospital is the largest centre for child heart surgery in the UK and one of the largest centres for heart transplantation in the world. The hospital is constructing a new building which will contain an Intraoperative Magnetic Resonance suite as well as physiotherapy and rehabilitation facilities. The suite will enable surgical teams to check whether complex procedures have worked, before patients wake up.Dortek supplied our specialist hybrid doors which are hygienic, lead-lined, fire-rated, automated and hermetically sealing. Our doors are specifically constructed for high hygiene areas and are completely free from timber or other organic materials which can harbour bacteria. The doors play an essential role in preventing cross-contamination as well as providing certified fire and x-ray protection and ensuring safe and efficient access for patients and staff.

Experience Spectacular Laminated Glass Designs with evguard® PriWatt® Glass has been used for the new series of Star Trek Strange New Worlds.Star Trek: Strange New Worlds is an American television series created by Akiva Goldsman, Alex Kurtzman, and Jenny Lumet for the streaming service Paramount+. It is the 11th Star Trek series and was launched in 2022 as part of Kurtzman’s expanded Star Trek Universe.Design work began in August 2020, and the series were being filmed at CBS Stages Canada. PriWatt® glass was used at the Enterprise’s chief medical officer office, Doctor M’Benga’s, who is secretly trying to cure his daughter of a rare disease.The reason switchable privacy glass was used is to create a futuristic, new technology version of a medical office on a USS Enterprise spaceship. The PriWatt® switchable smart glass is a new innovation trend in the healthcare industry because of the efficiency of this product. Increasing patient comfort, saving time and money for healthcare facilities, and allowing providers to focus on taking care of what matters most.For sensitive inlays like LC-films, meshes, LED and other materials, which are used in glass laminates, is mandatory to have a lamination film that flows easily into gaps without affecting or harming the inlay to obtain good results.The tailor-made melt viscosity of evguard® laminating film enables the lamination of added-value materials. evguard® laminating film perfectly fills the gaps without harming or destroying sensitive inlays like LC films, LED, meshes, solar cells, perforated steel, metals, papers and other substrates.Photo – PriWatt® switchable smart Glass by Smart Glass Tech Call Smart Glass Tech today for more information on the project:Smart Glass Techwww.smartglasstech.com(833) 333-8556sales@smartglasstech.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/smart-glass-tech/Other projects: https://www.smartglasstech.com/blog/for US and Canada - Call Glass Lamination of America for #evguard®:US: 803-487-4950Email: sebastian@glamofa.comwww.glamofa.comGlass Lamination of America for UK&Ireland - Call GlassParts for #evguard®Tony Mallick +44 7392 458390tony@glassparts.co.ukwww.glassparts.co.uk#qualityfirst #qualitymatters #interlayerforsensitiveinlays #madeingermany

Moonraker is a luxury residential property drawing on the exploits of James Bond for inspiration. Bournemouth-based Seven Developments’ four-bedroom property, which includes a sunken garden with decked footbridge, is a cocktail of curves based on the shape of a crescent moon.

Synthetic grass is a good alternative to decking, which can get slippery in the winter and requires regular time-consuming maintenance. Leaving concrete or slabs bare can look uninteresting and can be uncomfortable to sit on during summer evenings.

Synthetic grass is a good alternative to decking, which can get slippery in the winter and requires regular time-consuming maintenance. Leaving concrete or slabs bare can look uninteresting and can be uncomfortable to sit on during summer evenings.

University Coventry Hospital is situated in the Walsgrave on Sowe area of Coventry and is part of the University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust. The hospital opened in 2006, replacing Walsgrave Hospital the original hospital at the site.Twinfix was approached by Principal Contractors William Gough to design, manufacture and install a walkway from the helipad on the first-floor deck to the hospital’s Accident and Emergency department. The requirement was for a robust walkway that was structurally sufficient to withstand the usual weather forces and the down draught from a helicopter in close proximity.Liaising closely with William Gough and designer Pinnegar Hayward Design, the expert team at Twinfix designed, manufactured and installed a 240 sqm free-standing mono-pitch canopy with vertical perforated side panels. This impressive canopy design included lockable double leaf gates to secure the area.The roof comprises of our Multi-Link-Panel Non-Fragile (NF) system powder coated to RAL 5010 – gentian blue and glazed with 16mm multiwall polycarbonate, and the vertical panels were powder-coated to RAL 7037 – dusty grey. As this metal does not rust in use, the walkway will keep its good looks throughout its long life.

A programme of works carried out at a Nottinghamshire hospital has seen a number of products from the FIREFLY range employed to upgrade the passive fire protection throughout the roof spaces, with the manufacturer providing site specific design details to assist the highly experienced contractor complete the project on time. DC Fire Protection Ltd., based at Wellingborough in Northamptonshire, works right across the country covering multiple sectors of the construction industry, installing active as well as passive fire protection systems.  For its 10 week contract at the Ashfield Health and Wellbeing Centre at Kirby in Ashfield, the specialist installed dozens of rolls of the Titan Lite™ fire barrier as well as the Apollo Horizontal barrier, Collaroll and two of the 1200 x 600mm FR120 Access Panels to link some of the safety zones being created. Built in 2007, Ashfield Health and Wellbeing Centre is conjoined to the existing Ashfield Community Hospital and offers extended health services to the local community, supplementing the current services by providing purpose-built rehabilitation facilities, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and other community health services.  It also offers consulting rooms, treatment rooms and an activities of daily living suite, rehabilitation and gym areas.A Director of DC Fire Protection, Daniel Mabbott, commented: “We have been dealing with FIREFLY for a number of years, including buying large quantities of the Titan Lite™ and Apollo Lite , which we use for commercial contracts as well as other work.  We often propose the use of FIREFLY systems to clients and in this instance, where we were simply given the performance standard the client required, we proposed the use of Titan Lite plus Apollo Horizontal to upgrade the exiting fire walls which no longer comply with current requirements.” “There were a number of plastic PVC-U soil stacks rising through the roof in what was specified as a Controlled Zone, for which FIREFLY provided us with a bespoke detail to protect them where they passed through the barriers, while we installed a couple of their FR120 Access Panels in addition to the fire doors which we fitted in a number of locations throughout the roof.  The project was completed on time and we have now moved onto another contract where we are again using a number of FIREFLY products.”Third party approved, FIREFY Apollo Horizontal 30:30 provides 30 minutes integrity and insulation to exceed the minimum requirements within the Building Regulations relating to fire barriers.  In common with other FIREFY products, Apollo Horizontal is manufactured using specially treated woven glass fibre fabric, being flexible and lightweight making it easy to install. Specifiers and specialist fire contractors wishing to find more information about the full range of products available from FIREFLY can visit www.tbafirefly.comImages shown are taken during installation and some sections of the installation might be incomplete.

Awel-y-Mor Primary SchoolBauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing systemSynopsis The Awel-y-Mor Primary School site, situated at the heart of the town of Port Talbot in Wales, needed to undergo major redevelopment in preparation for its brand new fit for purpose school to replace the two pre-existing primary schools, which had experienced serious build repair and surplus capacity issues.Bauder Building BoardProject:Awel-y-Mor Primary SchoolLocation:Port TalbotProject type:New buildPV roof area:300m²Investor:Neath Port Talbot County Borough CouncilMain contractor:Dawnus Construction LtdRoofing contractor:Span Roofing Contractors LtdThe specifcationThe Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council wanted the new school to be fitting for the 21st century and bring them to the forefront of modern-day roofing technology. These requirements were met by BauderSOLAR’s innovative photovoltaic system, which delivers significant cost and environmental benefits, as well as providing an eye-catching visual reminder of the importance of sustainability.Roof areas totalling 300m² were fitted with 92 PV modules, which were secured to Bauder’s Thermofol Single Ply waterproofing, enabling the new Awel-y-Mor school to generate at least 25.9 Megawatt Hours of solar power each year. The incredible simplicity of the installation also meant that the entire PV array could be installed in just three days ensuring that there was no disruption to the commencing school term.Products appliedBauder Thermofol PVCSingle Ply System offering a lightweight and cost effective waterproofing solution that is resilient to the natural elements.BauderSOLAR SOLfixxPhotovoltaic system is an innovative renewable energy source that is secured to the roof without any penetration of the waterproofing or roof deck. 92 PV modules were installed with an expected energy generation of 25.9 MWh and with a kWp of 27.14.The resultRoof areas totalling 300m² were fitted with 92 PV modules, which were secured to Bauder’s Thermofol Single Ply waterproofing, enabling the new Awel-y-Mor school to generate at least 25.9 Megawatt Hours of solar power each year. The incredible simplicity of the installation also meant that the entire PV array could be installed in just three days ensuring that there was no disruption to the commencing school term.System installedBauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system1 Bauder Thermofol U15 FRA 1.5mm thick, reinforced PVC waterproofing membrane. Stated within BBA certificate 06/4354, the Thermofol PVC waterproofing membranes have a service life in excess of 35 years. 2 Bauder PIR MTissue-faced flat board insulation, benefitting from a zero ODP and a Green guide rating of ‘A’.3 BauderTEC KSDA self-adhesive elastomeric bitumen air and vapour control layer with an aluminium foil facing for vapour impermeability AdvocacyJonathan Morris, lead architect for the project, stated:“Our local Bauder representative offered the highest degree of service throughout the project, ensuring our site operation ran smoothly. With the complete roof finish covered by the all-encompassing Bauder guarantee we have peace of mind moving forward with regards to potential future defects.”

BriefDorset House sits at the heart of Talbot Campus, where most of the undergraduate and postgraduate courses are delivered at Bournemouth University. It is home to the Doctoral College, providing important support to its postgraduate research community with a range of high-tech laboratory equipment, as well as the Business School’s Professional Engagement Suite.Sustainability is a top priority for Bournemouth University. In fact, the University is ranked 21st in the world and 6th in the UK for its contribution to UN Sustainable Goal 13: Climate Action for The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2023. As well as opening new eco-friendly buildings, Bournemouth University is carrying out major refurbishment works across its campuses, investing in a range of low or zero-carbon technologies to help minimise water and energy use.As part of this refurbishment, Dorset House was to undergo a significant transformation to help enhance the entrance area and make better use of the space. Bluestone Design & Construction Ltd was tasked with upgrading the building’s flat roofing system, in association with IKO, and the build-up include the installation of a new 80kWp solar PV system.ChallengesThere were several challenges to overcome during the project, but as the team had recently completed similar works on the nearby Poole House on campus, they could apply their extensive learnings to ensure the refurbishment of Dorset House ran seamlessly. As the project was on a busy campus, it was important that it was carried out during the holidays to avoid significant disruption to students and staff. There was, however, a short period during term-time that required more coordination, to ensure appropriate access while making sure the project ran on time.Another challenge was ensuring the material deliveries arrived on time, to minimise site storage issues and meet workforce scheduling requirements. The team managed this effectively, by ordering the materials via construction product distributor, SIG, which were then delivered as required from the local SIG depot. This meant Bluestone Design & Construction could meet programme deadlines, without needing to store materials long-term on-site.SolutionThe installation process at Dorset House involved a standard hybrid built-up roofing (BUR) system, using both self-adhesive and torch-on membranes suitable for the substrates of the project. Choosing products with a 25-year guarantee was important to the team, as the installation included solar electricity panels (also known as PV), that would need to provide reliable power output over the system’s lifespan.Bluestone Design & Construction followed a thorough process to ensure the roof area was suitable for the PV installation, following the necessary remedial works and new roof overlay. Once the systems were in place, all works were reviewed to ensure they met the specifications of an IKO technical engineer and requirements of IKO’s guarantee, without any issues. The team also worked to all the necessary health and safety standards throughout the project.Bluestone Design & Construction and IKO worked together to ensure that the Dorset House project was carried out within the programme requirements – finishing ahead of schedule, in September 2023. It was essential that the building was ready on-time and within budget, ahead of the installation of the new PV system, to ensure maximum availability for the 2024 period. With Bournemouth University’s ambitious sustainability targets in mind, the Bluestone Design & Construction team wanted the system to be fully operational as soon as possible. As the main contractor and roofing installer, Bluestone Design & Construction was able to have more control over the project and ensure the roofing segment ran smoothly as part of the wider picture.The University was extremely pleased with the installation and execution of the project. Now with its improvements made, Dorset House is another success story in the University’s plan to futureproof its campuses for many years to come.

Glazing Vision have worked on a number of projects with Architects, ARCHEA, who are Victorian house experts specialising in adapting period houses into modern homes. These homes regularly demand an uplift in natural daylight, and Glazing Vision have formed a great relationship with ARCHEA to help transform many of their projects into well-lit, healthy, and happy environments for a number of families.These particular homes are all located within 10 minutes of each other in Hackney, London, with all clients looking to transform their period property into a contemporary home. Each project involved an extension and required a significant increase in natural daylight to help better the health and wellbeing of the families residing in each home which is where Glazing Vision stepped in.“When adding a ground floor extension, we often need to include rooflights to add light and views both to the new spaces and existing rooms in the home. Whilst fully glazed roofs can be used, this approach typically incurs more cost and extended lead-times due to the glazing being bespoke and needing to be made to order. By using large format, off-the-shelf rooflights we can incorporate extensive areas of glazing, but at a much lower cost and faster turnaround. We then use these in combination with traditional roof construction techniques, which are simple to construct and maintain.” – Richard Skinner, ARCHEA.ARCHEA regularly specify Glazing Vision’s Flushglaze Fixed Rooflight, a minimalist product with ‘frameless’ internal views designed to allow as much natural daylight into a room as possible. When working with pitched roofs, ARCHEA often opt for the Glazing Vision Pitchglaze Fixed Roof Window which is designed to be installed in pitched tiled roof applications flush with the tiling line, providing you with a vast amount of natural daylight.“We initially chose Glazing Vision because of their wide range of high-quality rooflights, and since working with them on a number of projects we value the help of their Technical Sales Team who are always on hand for technical support. We typically use the Flushglaze Fixed units as the extensions we work with usually involve a flat roof for practical and planning reasons and the Flushglaze offers the largest and best value standard glazing solution on the market. The standard aspect is vital for us as we are often looking for short lead times, and so this element adds so much value. When working with pitched roofs we instead use the Pitchglaze Fixed Roof Window which fit flush within the roof offering a sleek finish.” – Richard Skinner, ARCHEA.You can purchase our off the shelf rooflights and roof windows via rooflights.com, our online rooflight shop!Photography: Mai-ling Leung of ARCHEA

Formally known as the Olympic stadium, this structure was constructed in the Stratford district of London for the London 2012 Olympics. After the Olympics, redevelopment of the stadium began, including installation of the new floodlights in March 2015. The 60,000 capacity stadium is now home of West Ham United.The project involved working with 2 different clients on the same project – Populous (Global stadium developers) and Buro Happold (consulting engineers) for 14 no lighting puddles for the London stadium. The driver for the use of composites was seeking a way to reduce the weight at the end of what was then the largest cantilever roof section – so weight at the end was more critical than normal. We also supplied 2000m² of steel gratings to the same project – demonstrating how we can identify the most suitable material for each application.The material used was Flowdeck solid top 41mm deep in RAL 7043. Flowdeck is resin moulded with a 3mm thick applied plate on top of a 38mm thick standard panel. It was fabricated at our facility in Middlesbrough with each one delivered on a phase-by-phase basis to a tight programme.

Axter Ltd and Empire Roofing Systems Ltd were engaged by the library directly to upgrade the existing roof covering which was underperforming thermally and in terms of drainage falls.Systems in useHyranger®Neo-Bitumen® Flame FreeStarcoat® PMMAOverviewDesborough Library and Community Hub took over responsibility for the running of the library service in Desborough in 2020. With that came the maintenance of the library building itself. Over time, certain parts of the building had deteriorated. There were leaks and sections of standing water across the 100 square metres plus of flat roofing that forms part of the roof structure.The client applied to The National Lottery Community Fund for a grant that would be used to refurbish the roof area. The Library and Community Hub were fortunate enough to obtain the necessary funding for the work to go ahead.An overlay of the existing system was proposed to utilise the current build up, including a cut to falls insulation scheme to comply with Building Regulations Parts L & H, and BS 6229:2018. Safe2Torch principles were followed throughout with some creative detailing agreed between the contractor and manufacturer due to combustible elements and areas of asbestos.An excellent finish was achieved within budget and in a timescale of 3 weeks.ChallengesAxter were brought in following initial core sampling that was completed by Empire Roofing Systems. The roof area was assessed, and a robust solution was proposed which would alleviate the standing water seen across the roof area, while also improving the thermal performance of the building up to a 0.18 U-Value to comply with Building Regulations: Part L.The existing system was in fair condition but had reached the end of its guaranteed life with no leaks reported and core samples returning dry. There was a noted lack of maintenance across the roof area and significant challenges apparent in terms of detailing due to fire risks and asbestos present.SolutionsBased on the condition of the existing system we were confident that an overlay would be the most cost-effective option. Our Hyranger® multi-layer RBM system was installed using gas driven torches to fully bond the AVCL and capping sheet. The underlayer was installed over a tissue faced PIR and therefore needed to be self-adhesive to reduce the risk of fire, complying with Safe2Torch guidelines. Our hot air applied Force® Neo Bitumen system was installed in the areas of fire risk, and our cold applied Starcoat® PMMA liquid system was installed in areas where a hot air application would be problematic.A cut to falls scheme was designed based on our onsite survey, allowing water to flow freely to the outlets. This alleviated the risk of water buildup and thermal degradation caused by ponding water.Axter’s quality assurance team regularly attended site and were in constant communication with Empire Roofing’s operatives. This was to ensure that the system was being installed correctly and to the expected standards, in order to achieve the Silvershield guarantee required by the client. To achieve the Silvershield guarantee level, all materials and workmanship had to be installed as per the Axter specification. The installation of the roof area was completed to exceptional standards, leaving the client very impressed with the workmanship.System and ProductsAxter’s Hyranger® system was used across the main roof area. The system is fully BBA and Broof T4 compliant, and comes with a single point 20 year Axter Silvershield guarantee that covers materials and workmanship. This was signed off by our Quality Assurance Team who audited throughout installation.Safe2Torch principals were adhered to throughout. Our Neo-Bitumen® Flame Free system was predominantly used on any areas of fire risk, as well as our Starcoat® PMMA for the tricky details where a comprehensive weld may not have been possible.Acknowledgments"We knew of Empire Roofing Systems from another good job they had completed for us on a separate part of the building, and asked them to quote for repair of the troublesome flat roofing.Empire and Axter came up with a plan to make the roof drain properly and we went ahead with their quote.The work went ahead on schedule and to plan without any disruption to the running of the Library and Community Hub and took around two weeks to complete.The guys worked hard and were always helpful and polite when we asked any questions about the work in progress. We had an issue with a blocked internal drainpipe which was quickly and effectively dealt with by Jim and his team from Empire.We are delighted with the end results and have the assurance that the work has been inspected by technicians from Axter themselves and comes with their written guarantee." Gil, Desborough Library

Eastbourne station is located in East Sussex. It was originally built in the 19th century and is classified as a Grade II listed building. Over the years, the station has undergone several renovations and upgrades.Back in October 2020 it was announced £5 million would be spent on restoring Eastbourne Railway Station to its ‘former glory’. Work done includes canopy refurbishment, slate roof replacement, masonry work to the front of the station, and new roofing above the atrium.Twinfix were approached to replace the glazing panels on the 32 lanterns on the station’s train shed with something hard wearing, sustainable and modern but without losing the period look. The change was needed because, according to the plans, the existing fixtures were ‘life expired and inefficient’.Twinfix supplied their Multi-Link-Panel Non-Fragile (NF) roof glazing system, glazed with 6mm solid obscure polycarbonate. The new glazing spanned 1243 square metres and was installed by Gable, on behalf of Main Contractor BAM Nuttall.The Multi-Link-Panel NF system is an innovative roof glazing product that has been well utilised for many years on station canopy roofs, and it has been thoroughly tried and tested in that time.It was the chosen system for this project for a number of reasons:sustainability– these panels are virtually unbreakable in manufacture, transit and in situ, meaning that, unlike glass, maintenance costs will be eliminated. The system is also completely recycleable.safety– Twinfix Multi-Link-Panel NF (Non-Fragile) conforms to the HSE recommended test method ACR[M]001:2019 (as outlined in document HSG33) and achieves a ‘B’ Classification.off-site construction– The panels are pre-assembled in Twinfix’s factory ensuring strict quality guidelines are adhered to, which is not always guaranteed when roofing products are assembled on site.ease of access– The Multi-Link-Panel NF system can be fitted with In-Line Access Hatches, to allow cleaning of gutters and roof. These hatches are hardly visible and allow safe access through the glazing without needing to get on the roof.weight– The Multi-Link-Panel NF is light in weight and due to its modular format, it is very quick to install which allows for short rail possession works. A slight redesign of the original roof allowed 96 access hatches to be installed, making maintenance easier. Installed it’s almost impossible to detect the modern materials that have been used to bring this historic structure back to life.During the renovation work, Shaun King, Sussex route director for Network Rail, said, “The quality of work on site is being completed to a very high standard and we’re taking great care to restore the Grade II listed building to its former glory.”

Waterproofing this historic London landmark – external waterproofing with Newton 403 HydroBond, internal waterproofing with Newton System 500, installed by Newton Specialist Basement Contractor MacLennanUK.Newton Waterproofing were delighted to return for this project at the prestigious Houses of Parliament in London, a landmark that has dominated London’s skyline for over 150 years. Newton Specialist Basement Contractor MacLennan Waterproofing was approached to specify a guaranteed waterproofing solution for the new-build basement.After reviewing the technical drawings, MacLennan decided to bring the job to Newton, whose product range was perfectly suited to the project requirements. Newton and MacLennan are both privileged to be the companies chosen to share in securing the future of the Palace of Westminster.This complex project required the design and installation of an external waterproofing system, an internal cavity drain system, and a polyurea roofing system to ensure a high standard of waterproofing.Externally, Newton’s innovative ‘Type A’ 403 HydroBond membrane was applied extensively to ensure the necessary waterproofing around the basement, whilst internally, Newton 508 and Newton 520 membranes were both applied from floor to ceiling as part of Newton’s complete System 500 cavity drainage solution. With the finished structure in place, the waterproofing was finally completed by the application of both a polyurea coating and further drainage membrane to the roof deck of the basement.With a waterproof basement fully compliant with the requirements of BS 8102:2009, coupled with guaranteed protection against water ingress, this newly completed, large basement area, situated directly next to the River Thames, provides a durable and well-established waterproofing solution, utilising multiple Newton Systems to great effect.

In the village of Bentworth, the Spanish architectural practice AMPS Arquitectura & Diseño had the task of building a modern residential building adjacent to an existing farmhouse. The planners designed a slender building with a gabled roof that reinterprets the traditional form of a cottage. It takes up the typical local forms and the building material of dark wood – and becomes something new.The entire interior is stylish, minimalist and sustainable, with building services designed for maximum efficiency. This includes the use of selected Gira products, such as E2 pure white glossy, pushbutton sensor 3, Gira G1 and Gira HomeServer. This is how the Spanish have skilfully redefined the idea of a cottage in the heart of England.Photos: Miguel de Guzmán

The Purple and Green MSCPs have capacity for more than 4,000 vehicles across five levels. The project’s scope involved concrete repair, structural strengthening using carbon fibre laminates, the replacement of the conduits, movement joints, drainage channels and deck waterproofing.

The Residence required fast, robust hot melt waterproofing that met the demanding construction programme.ChallengesThe fast construction programme on this project imposed stringent requirements with regard to design, delivery, installation sequencing and coordination with Axter’s on site Quality Assurance (QA) team.The rapid build programme meant the waterproofing system needed to be capable of withstanding construction traffic and activity from other trades, with limited protection. Complex roof, elevation and cladding interface construction details resulted in the need for on site bespoke waterproofing detail design change, that maintained guarantees and ensured a defect free construction for the lifetime of the building.Restricted site storage and delivery access combined with the complexities of inner London construction challenged Axter’s logistics team to provide multi-vehicle, timed delivery without risk of delay or programme disruption.SolutionsThrough early involvement in the design process and collaboration with the developer and project architect, it was agreed that Wilotekt-Plus, second generation hot melt structural waterproofing system, was the right solution. The pour and roll application significantly reduced installation times, ensuring all areas were waterproofed quickly in time to receive a variety of roof finishes – living roof, paving, solar panels, etc.Wilotekt-Plus was installed fully bonded to the concrete slab, providing a robust, 7mm thick, self-healing system capable of withstanding significant construction traffic without defect.Upstands were completed using Cityflor root resistant bitumen membranes. Complex details, where a fire risk was identified by Axter QA, were completed using Starcoat QC in accordance with Axter specification requirements and the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) Safe2Torch guidelines.Our accredited Axtershield Installer Bracknell Roofing Ltd followed the project specification in full and works were completed to a very high standard. Regular on-site quality checks were conducted by Axter QA personnel to ensure guarantee procedures were followed and programme deadlines were met.AcknowledgmentsAxter is a company with technically advanced products. Every site is quality checked by Axter QA and I receive a clear report. It’s good to have a partner committed to our joint success and capable of dealing with the unexpected.M Gorick - Bracknell Roofing Ltd

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.

Projects of complexity that demand innovative solutions to technically challenging interface design often deliver exceptional buildings. As a shining example, Axter recently completed the roofing systems for The Cheng Yu Tung Building, a landmark project for Jesus College in the heart of Oxford City.Systems in useStarcoat® PMMAForce Dalle®Excel®Cityflor®OverviewThis project required Axter’s extensive range of materials and methods combined to complete the multifaceted interfaces and deliver the demanding architectural design, whilst achieving the project’s ambitious goals.Founded in 1571, and with original buildings from this date, Jesus College is based in the centre of this diverse and historic city. With the development of the Cheng Yu Tung Building the college has undertaken its most significant transformation since the early 18th century.Combining new graduate accommodation, indoor and outdoor communal spaces, state-of-the-art teaching and meeting facilities with the latest digital technologies, this £36m innovative development is intended to have significant impact on the college faculty and students’ learning experience.Axter worked with architects MICA from early in the process, helping to specify solutions that would realise the design vision of lead architect Mandy Franz.“We’d worked with MICA before on a number of projects - including Keble College, University of Oxford - so they knew us and trusted us to add value through being involved with the design,“ comments Axter's Regional Sales Director, Matthew Saunders. “However, this project was a significant step up in complexity, with approximately 18 separate roof areas in total to complete. Looking at the main quad alone there is a raised area, numerous external stairways and walkways to waterproof as well as further raised terraces and inaccessible roof sections. Fortunately, we had significant experience to bring to this challenge.”Sustainability was the client’s major focus from the start, with the college already utilising ground source heat pumps, photovoltaic panels, and a heat recovery and cooling system to ensure zero carbon building operations, as well as reviewing all construction waste to ensure minimum diversion to landfill. We supported this aim working with main contractor BAM Construct UK to carefully plan and schedule the waterproofing systems to be installed, identifying the material composite of each roof to maximise efficacies in installation and logistics.The College’s key priority was to achieve a sustainability-focused design to reduce their carbon footprint. Naturally, this contributed to the challenges of the scheme, such as the additional fire safety requirements in response to the timber-framed construction. To help deliver the College’s ambitions, Axter supported the client’s design team by providing expert knowledge, understanding and application of the current regulations.Tapered roof insulation was used to support energy efficiency and drainage requirements, with bituminous waterproofing throughout. In keeping with the college’s sustainability mission, the main quad features a blue roof system to attenuate rainwater drainage. Other roof areas are finished with wildflower meadows. A combination of exposed and buried waterproofing membranes were consequently required, with additional complexity created by the range of different materials and surfaces involved.“Normally, if our membrane is marrying up to a vertical wall, we would see it come up as a visible detail,” continues Matthew, “but the beautiful Clipsham stonework used for the building façade wasn’t compatible with the typical detailing. We were also challenged by the desired architectural intent to defend the historic aesthetic of the stone, so we created a bespoke solution that has the required guaranteed watertightness whilst also delivering the architectural vision.”Additional challengesThe project started in 2020, just as the UK was trying to navigate the guidelines for operating during the COVID-19 pandemic. Matthew explains: “there were still restrictions in place, such as a general 2-metre distancing requirement, which was challenging in the tighter spaces, for example corridors where you literally couldn’t pass another person. We had an unusually hot summer also, which wasn’t helpful when you have workers in full PPE using 1,400-degree butane torches where use of naked flame was permitted in accordance with NFRC Safe2Torch guidance.”The overall scope of the project, which encompassed multiple terraces at different levels and a mixture of concrete, CLT and steel frame structural composites, was a defining characteristic. “This was a large-scale development to begin with,” adds Matthew. “Furthermore, the university emphasised from the start the centrality of the significant sustainability objectives, and MICA had ambitious solutions in mind in terms of the materials used. Our job was to accommodate these various requests while keeping in mind all of the regulatory and compliance requirements. Achieving those without exception, for a large number of surfaces, does become more challenging where each part of the project has several ambitious aspirations intersecting with one another. Fortunately, we are known for always rising to a challenge.”SolutionsThe pandemic accelerated the shift to a range of technological solutions replacing traditional or face-to-face approaches. Systems were evolved for everything from distancing to digital rather than traditionally signed delivery acceptance.“As a manufacturer, we don’t have to be on site every day,” notes Matthew, “but traditionally we would attend fairly frequently, as well as meeting regularly with partners to agree and then oversee various aspects of the project plan. Fortunately, Axter was already moving towards solutions such as virtual meetings, so we simply shifted much more quickly to those approaches, using them wherever possible.“I think one advantage we have is the breadth of the product range we design. We can offer clients such as Jesus College a full system approach involving multiple solutions, to ensure we use the right system for the right application on each occasion. Our accredited installers are carefully vetted and trained by us, and have worked with us for long enough to know our products inside out.”The range of products we are able to offer, all developed in-house, does testify to the culture of Axter. Comments Matthew: “We are very much a technically-oriented company and that runs through every aspect of our work and our staff. Our sales team are all very aware of the products on that level, they aren’t selling products they don’t fully understand the technical details of. Our long-term partners know that what we offer them is reassurance that, from early-stage design meetings through to completion, whatever challenges they put to us, our response will be considered and robust in terms of quality and compliance.”Systems and products usedExternal stair cores used Axter Starcoat PMMA liquid waterproofing membranes.For the main quad and some lower areas, our innovative Force Dalle warm roof solution was used.Our Excel reinforced waterproofing membranes were used as an exposed membrane finish, with a tapered insulation to ensure the falls and consequent drainage characteristics required by BS 6229.Axter’s Cityflor warm living roof membranes were used as buried applications in several roof terraces, again with tapered insulation.Self-adhesive membranes were used where necessary to ensure compliance with NFRC Safe2Torch Guidelines, especially required due to the timber elements.Acknowledgments"To deliver the increasing demand on a building’s performance specification, combined with the seamless aesthetics of contemporary architectural design, an advanced understanding of technical detailing is required in the design and construction process. The design criteria have also resulted in an extensive range of engineered systems on the market to provide certified, technical solutions for multifaceted interfaces.Working directly with the designers and product manufacturers, we prioritise a full system approach to the weather-tightness of the building, focusing on durability, termination and compliance with current regulations. I have worked with the team at MICA Architects and Axter’s Matthew Saunders on a number of challenging projects, including The Cheng Yu Tung Building, Jesus College, and the HB Allen Centre, Keble College. Matthew Saunders has always been a key consultant for the technical specification of above ground waterproofing systems and the buildings’ thermal performance. He’s an expert in technical detailing and advisor on the materials required to deliver the optimum waterproofing system for the building."Eric O’Hare, Design Manager, BAM Construction www.bam.co.ukWith special thanks to: Tomasz Zozak, who provided the photographs, and BAM Construction Ltd.

Superb development with unique balconies and a wonderful roof terraceThis prestige development in the outskirts of thriving Manchester used the MyDek Vista board on our standard box rail and cleat support system. The Vox is an iconic looking development.Located at Cornbrook, a short walk away from Castlefield with its waterside bars and restaurants and convenient access to Deansgate through to the City Centre. You’re also just a quick Metrolink journey, or a canal path stroll, away from MediaCityUK, home to the city’s exciting media-hub and Quayside shopping outlet.Most of the balconies had triangular shaped balconies with multiple faceted angles. This meant that installation called for a lot of unique angled cuts with every board having a different length and mitred end. The installers did an excellent quality job and delivered an outstanding result."Would I recommend MyDek to others? 100% yes! Just through their sheer professionalism towards us and the other trades involved in the project. They helped us out a lot, they’ve been really useful to us…any problems we’ve had on site…they’ve done their very best, they’ve been first there to help us out. We couldn’t really ask any more from them." - Senior Site Manager, Graham Construction

According to Alzheimer’s UK, there are around 900,000 people with dementia in the UK and this figure is expected to rise to 1.6 million by 2040. Dementia is an umbrella term and is caused when diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia and other conditions, damage the brain. As well as memory problems, dementia can also cause issues with vision and perception, leading to problems such as a welcome mat by a door looking like a black hole. The Equality Act and Building Regulations (Part M) make provision for people with dementia and there are some, when specifying paving for care homes and in the public realm, that can make a significant difference. One of the key points that can be addressed by speaking to a reputable paving manufacturer is the consistency of light reflection values (RV) throughout the landscape design. LRV measures the amount of light reflected back from a material when illuminated by a light source. The more light reflected, the higher the LRV. It is usually measured using aspectrophotometer. Research by Liverpool John Moores University demonstrated that an ‘uneven’ appearance of ground surface or patches of darker tone or colour can be confusing and potentially cause accidents. The institution also described how paving patterns or changes in colour that are arbitrary can cause confusion. It has concluded that strong paving patterns - such as chequerboard - may cause disturbance, as consistent light reflectance values are required. When Keepmoat Homes was involved in the building of the planned dementia care facilities in Litchfield, Staffordshire, the company spoke to specialists at Brett Landscaping. Keepmoat was working on a centre that would house up to 90 people in six buildings and needed the paving to be suitable for the residents at the centre. It required external paving which registered between 25 and 45 on the light reflective value spectrum. Rigorous and extensive testing of the LRVs of Brett’s products enabled Keepmoat to install paving that falls within the strict parameters of the guidelines. Testing of Brett’s Alpha Flow permeable paving systems at Brett’s manufacturing plants in Kent and Dorset, showed that the LRV was consistent on individual colour ranges. It also revealed that the variance between all three colour ranges (Autumn Gold, Brindle and Charcoal) is ideally suited for the project. Brett’s Alpha Flow paving is already widely used across the country for developments where developers are looking to improve surface water drainage and prevent flooding. Existing Alpha Flow pavements are also still offering between 15 and 20 years of low maintenance service. Other than the consistency of light reflective values, Alzheimer’s UK has called for other work to help those living with dementia. It also recommends carefully selecting materials to avoid reflective or dark surfaces which could confuse perception, planning continuous, level routes and avoiding steps if possible.

The Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation (ECCI) is a newcentre for world leading research on carbon innovation. Partof Edinburgh University’s estate, the ECCI acts as a social huboffering teaching, support and information on climate relatedchallenges facing society. The ECCI also doubles up as agreen business venue for events and conferences in the heartof the city centre.Originally built in 1777 by Alexander Laing, the refurbishment ofthe Neo Classical Royal High School was the first refurbishedbuilding in the UK to achieve the BREEAM ‘Outstanding’award. Refurbished by Malcolm Fraser Architects, part of theCentre’s unique design includes careful consideration of thebuilding’s fabric, prioritising sustainable and recycled materials.A facet of the building’s refurbishment was to improve itsenvironmental aspects such as waste, pollution, land use,ecology, materials, management and energy.Reaching this iconic benchmark involved sourcing materialsfrom a sustainable background. When Malcolm FraserArchitects detailed the building’s ethos and aim to achievea BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ award. Allgood proposed a FSBironmongery solution that recycles 100% of the water used inthe manufacturing process and 90% of all FSB products canbe recyled at life end. Once presented with our FSB range andenvironmental manufacturing credentials, Edinburgh Universitywere happy to use Allgood’s ironmongery solution.Overall, Allgood supplied a combined ironmongery, sanitaryand access control package that included: hinges, doorclosers, locks, kick plates, signage, grab rails, soap dispensers,paper towel dispenser and concealed electromagnetic locks.Having successfully supplied to other Edinburgh Universityprojects before, Allgood knew how to approach the project,allowing all items to be delivered on time and within the clientsbudget.

Addenbrookes Hospital Surge Centre2000m² Of CemfloorA temporary surge facility on the site of Addenbrookes Hospital to relieve pressure on the main hospital as part ofthe NHS' regional surge planFloor Screeding Solutions installed 2,000m2 of Cemfloor, the chosen screed for the project, which was supplied by Mick George Concrete, Cambridge.With the rising case numbers of Corona virus during the pandemic, hospitals were coming under increasing pressure for more critical care beds, and Surge Plans were put in place across the country to help alleviate this pressure.Addenbrooke Hospital in Cambridge sought to construct a ‘Surge Centre’ to cope with the additional demands on the hospital, and Cemfloor was chosen for the project due to its faster installation time and drying time compared to traditional sand and cement screeds. This helped to keep the project on track with its tight building schedule.Lewis Deck construction offered a strong light weight flooring option for the large pour area. As Cemfloor is a flowing screed, 500m2 of screed per day was poured over this by Dave Washbrook and his team from Floor Screeding Solutions, eliminating the need for on-site mixing.The main advantage Cemfloor has over other flowing screeds is the quicker drying times, and that it can accept foot traffic after 24 / 48 hours, meaning that construction could continue quickly and efficiently to meet the project deadline.

The award winning new Vijay Patel building is the bold centerpiece of DMU’s £136million campus transformation project. The tower houses all of the university’s art and design faculties under one roof – so it’s only fitting that the surrounding landscaping should reflect the creative nature of the students using it.The project was made up of three main areas which had multi-uses – the Arts Tower development, the Design Wing and the Food Court. Other changes include open parkland along Mill Lane leading to the edge of the River Soar, creating a new gateway connecting the city’s West End to the city centre. One of the main advantages of the new campus is that it brings all the different areas, under one roof, making it a lot more accessible and convenient for the for the students.Designer Plincke Manchester blended a range of Marshalls paving products to create different textures within the landscape, which help to delineate multi-use spaces.Different sizes of the new Modal paving, part of the internationally recognised La Linia range have been juxtaposed, with long flag units used to complement the lines of the central tower and smaller Conservation X Setts to designate walkways.

Commercial to residential, it may be last orders for some of our great British pubs, for other’s its discovering exciting ways of transforming commercial structures into luxury residential dwellings.  The growing trend of converting old inns offers new homes a unique history whilst being packed with character and features.Delta Registered Installers, Advance Property Preservation Ltd were engaged to assist on a troublesome vaulted basement to a property, based in central London which had already been converted into high living accommodation.Just off the basement area were two large vaults around 12m long. Made from brick barrel construction, this below ground space had previously used for storing kegs of ale!One of these vaults had previously been converted into a spa area with jacuzzi and steam room, the other was used as a storage area. The owners had previously had the storeroom tanked with a Type A, render system, however this approach repeatedly failed, allowing for substantial water ingress which was causing damage to items stored in this area.With Structural Waterproofing one of the major contributors to project failure lies with the design. When hiring contractors, ensure the design, procurement of materials and installation is undertaken by one specialist will naturally reduce these known and associated risks. A specialist contractor will always be able to offer quality assurances.

Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust boast a brand new Assessment and Treatment Unit at the Lynfield Mount Hospital in Bradford.STJ Projects Ltd manufactured and installed a full range of doorset solutions across the new unit including:R-Quest Severe Duty Seclusion Suite doorsets, which are steel interlaid to provide a severe robustness R-Quest Heavy Duty Fire Rated doorsets R-Quest Heavy Duty Anti-Barricade doorsetsR-Quest Lock Back Frames, both 90 & 180 degree lock back facilitiesThese doorsets look stunning with real Ash hardwood frames and architraves, clear lacquered to show the beauty of the timber, along side the door leaves which varied in colour and material. The Seclusion & Common area Bathrooms were impact resistance and anti-bacterial PVC encapsulated and all other doors were faced with anti-bacterial laminate, with a natural Pearl Grey colour across all common areas with individual bedroom doors having their own unique colour. This ATU facility, for adults over 18 with moderate to severe learning disabilities and mental health problems, whose needs cannot be supported at home, in the community or in other adult mental health wards is a fresh offering to provide the much needed support they deserve from daily living needs to maintaining independent skills.

Completed in July 2012 the Shard was in construction for 3 years. Grainger’s, are proud to say we supplied our perimeter access flooring pedestals on several their exposed levels. This helps to create the unique shape of the shard. Access flooring has provided over 200 miles of wiring to be hidden underfoot. Making Irvine Sellar's ambition to create such a luxurious space into a reality. 95% of construction material were recycled during the fit out. Including 95% recycled content in pedestals.Back in 2015, the Grainger family celebrated a 21st Birthday, visiting the Shard. 360 views of the capital, on a clear day provided outstanding memories for such a special occasion. Whilst looking out it was easy to spot various other jobs and projects we had worked on over the years. We were all proud to be a part of the making of The Shard.

Architect: Henning Larson - CopenhagenContractor: SKANSKA - SwedenThe ProjectESS / European Spallation Source, located in Lund, Sweden, is a joint European research facility to which 13 member countries contribute technical equipment, expertise and funding. Researchers worldwide will be able to study materials in detail allowing them to investigate solutions for some of the world’s most complex challenges in material research, renewable energy, biomedicine and pharmaceutical pursuits. The facility is expected to open for research in 2023.Not only will ESS become a world-leading research facility, it will also be one of the most sustainable and energy smart research infrastructures.The ESS energy concept is based on three pillars: the facility will be very energy efficient and will use as little energy as possible, all energy will come from renewable energy sources and the waste heat will be recycled.Inpro® Products UsedFireline® 140 Fire BarrierSeries 114 Drywall Wall and Ceiling Interior SystemSeries 651 Surface Mount Exterior SystemSeries 672 Bellows Roof Exterior SystemSeries 995 Fire-rated FoamWhy did Skanska decide to work with Inpro?The project started 2 years ago with a single request for information from Henning Larsen Architects – Copenhagen. In 2019 Inpro were asked by Skanska to tender for an expansion joint product line addressing the exterior cladding of this unique facility. At that time, several other manufacturing companies were being considered for the wide ranging scope of movement joints required. However after in depth interviews, only Inpro was able to offer all the complex joint solutions required in one primary supplier.Detailed Sustainability product information was submitted and verified by third parties.Complicated Shop Drawings and take-offs of the massive 6-building involved depicting multiple complicated transitions between varying substrates, differing products and a range of geometries for the custom-made solutions.Demonstrated our ability to overcome complex technical and field-related problems.Were involved with hours of online meetings with the main stakeholders- Skanska technical teams, the Architectural team and the Installing Contractor in a collaborative approach to implement best practice and minimize risk.This was an Inpro team project including Senior Product Management, Sustainability team, estimation and commercial management who all played an important part to land this iconic development with SKANSKA.

A faster drying screed required over Lewis metal decking system on a first floor. Gyvlon FD, the screed is compatible with the Lewis system and gave the client the re assurance that the 6 week deadline would comfortably be achieved. Floor was dry for floor coverings after 28 days.

THE PROJECTThe village of Comrie is located towards the western edge of the Perth & Kinross Council area, approximately 40 kilometres west of Perth in Scotland. The waterproofing system used to cover the buried water tank at Comrie Distribution Service Reservoir (DSR) was many years old and had failed. As part of the ongoing Scottish Water SR21 framework, Fosroc and The Fraser Bruce Group have developed a wide range of solutions for waterproofing water tanks that have been proposed and agreed by both Morrison Construction and Scottish Water. This project involved removing the soil overburden and the existing waterproofing system, before mechanically preparing the deck and applying sheet membrane.THE SOLUTIONOnce the overburden and existing waterproofing were removed it was apparent that there was severe ponding on the tank roof. The decision was taken to prepare the deck and apply an external self-leveler to prevent the ponding of water. The perimeter and upstand detailing was carried out before Fosroc’s self-adhesive sheet membrane Proofex 3000 was applied to the primed, horizontal surface. The surface was then protected with Proofex Sheetdrain 80, a drainage and protection membrane. After the membrane was laid, the access hatch upstands received two coats of Nitocote CM210 before more Proofex 3000 was applied and terminated just below the height of the new overburden. The access hatches were then sealed in place with Nitoseal MS600.THE BENEFITSProofex 3000 membrane, which is cold applied and comes in 1m x 20m rolls, is self-adhesive, thereby reducing the amount of product and application time. The applicator was able to cover large areas in far less time. The membrane is made from cross laminated HDPE film to protect against damage, while still being sufficiently flexible for detailing around corners. It is resistant to ground water, soluble sulfates and chlorides, offering robust protection from aggressive ground salts. Its use with Sheetdrain achieved a high quality, reliable installation compliant with EN 13707:2004. By combining the use of Nitocote CM210 and Proofex 3000, Fosroc were able to provide solutions for both exposed and buried areas of the tank with no compatibility issues between the products.

Flooring contractors, 14 Flooring, have used Level IT Super Flex 30 to create 44 luxurious bathrooms at the Radisson Red Hotel in London Heathrow – much to their guests delight.BackgroundLocated at one of the world’s busiest airports, Radisson Red Hotel provides the perfect location for holidaymakers to get a good night’s sleep ahead of their flight or to chill out after a long day of travelling.Forty-four bathrooms, across four floors, have undergone a makeover to provide guests with an even more magnificent stay.The ChallengeTime was of the essence at this location. With guests already booked in, it was imperative that the flooring was completed on time to allow other trades to finish their works in readiness for the agreed handover date.The SolutionCommercial flooring specialists, 14 Flooring, partnered with subfloor preparation experts, UltraFloor, to install 3sqm of flooring, in 44 bathrooms, across 4 floors at the hotel.In preparation of the Tarkett LVT large format tiles being installed, 14 Flooring primed the substrate using UltraFloor Prime IT Multi-surface Primer.Formulated to promote the adhesion to all UltraFloor smoothing underlayments, Prime IT Multi-surface Primer reduces pinholing, minimising the risk of costly failures. With a coverage rate of 200sqm at 3:1 dilution, Prime IT Multi-surface Primer is a must-have product for all flooring installation projects.Once cured, Level IT Super Flex 30 was applied across the entire area, resulting in the smoothest of subfloors.Specifically designed for use over a wide variety of subfloors including steel mezzanine decks and flooring grade plywood, Level IT Super Flex 30 is a rapid setting and drying, fibre reinforced flexible smoothing finishing compound.Developed with a high polymer content, Level IT Super Flex 30 boasts superior flexible properties, making it the perfect smoothing underlayment for floors where movement is likely.What’s more, subfloors prepared using Level IT Super Flex 30 are available to receive foot traffic in as little as 30 minutes, bonded floor coverings after 1 hour and resin finishes and forklift traffic after just 24 hours, allowing you to move on to another project quickly.ResultsThe expertise and skills of 14 Flooring teamed with the fantastic performance of UltraFloor, meant that it took the team just six days to prime, latex and install flooring across the hotel bathrooms.On selecting UltraFloor for the project, Daniel Lunan, Director of 14 Flooring, commented: “I chose Level IT Super Flex 30 for its rapid setting and rapid drying properties. With many bathrooms to complete in a short time frame, the smoothing compound drying quickly, without airflow, enabled us to work and install flooring the same day, which was essential. Having used Level IT Super Flex 30 many times in the past, I knew I could rely on it to perform exactly how I needed it too.”For further information on Level IT Super Flex 30 and the other materials available from UltraFloor, please contact UltraFloor’s team of flooring experts by emailing ultrafloor@instarmac.co.uk or calling +44 (0) 1827 254402.

Falco recently took to the design, manufacture, supply and installation of a bespoke cycle hub based on the traditional FalcoLok-500 design. Installed at Anson House, south Westminster, in view of the River Thames, the new cycle hub has been coupled with the FalcoVert-Pro cycle rack to provide secure accommodate for up to 24 bikes.Installed on behalf of Westminster City Council, the new cycle hub features electrogalvanised perforated sheet cladding, powder coated in a Jet Black RAL colour, along with a secure access system.The whole shelter is a bespoke contemporary design of the classic FalcoLok-500 shelter, which features clean lines through the glass cladding and supported by stainless steel glass clamps. The steelwork is hot dip galvanised to BS EN ISO 1461 and also meets UK structural design laws with EN 1090 accreditation. Rainwater is collected via innovative integral gutters as part of the roof system and a bespoke bund ensure that the cycle hub is weather proof!The cycle hub was commisioned to help reduce congestion and provide greater cycling accessibility for residents of Anson House.The FalcoVert-Pro as shown here at Anson House, is a space saving cycle rack design ideal for highly popular densities such as stations, cycle hubs, shopping centres, high streets and car parks etc. Bicycles are parked semi vertically with both front and rear wheels located in a custom designed trough.Falco cycle hubs can also incorporate a world of features including; smart LED lighting, green sedum roofs, CCTV and Help Point facilities as well as numerous other cost-effective features for the cyclist such as lock holders, helmet lockers, seating and bike repair facilities. For more information about the FalcoHub cycle store, a demonstration of the FalcoSmart app-based lock, the FalcoPod bike hangar or any other Falco product, then please speak to one of our friendly customer service staff on (01538) 380080.

Fully certified products from the range of TBA FIREFLY™ have been employed to protect a potentially vulnerable roof-space above a doctor’s surgery in Chingford, Essex, ensuring any outbreak of fire could not spread to other parts of the building. The work on the property owned by Peabody Estate has been carried out by Wickford based T & R Fire Protection on behalf of another industry expert, LMAC Fire Systems, also from Essex. The two companies regularly cooperate on such projects as landlords continue to maintain and improve the fire safety performance of existing buildings.In the case of the Chingford surgery, FIREFLY™ Apollo Lite™ 30:30 was specified along with the manufacturer’s widely utilised Collaroll, High Temperature Adhesive and 12mm stainless steel staples. In addition to protecting the sides of the 2.8 metre high pitched roof-space, creating fire barriers and wrapping multiple beam ends with the Collaroll, T & R also installed one of FIREFLY'S Access Panel FR 120 units. These have been stringently tested against EN 1363-1 2020 and are third party certified by IFC, being shown to achieve an impressive two hours fire resistance from either side of a fire compartment. Intended to be fitted vertically, the heavy-duty construction of the Zintec steel door and unistrut frame ensures the assembly offers a tight and flush fit when closed, and robust performance in use.The Director for T & R Fire Protection, Tom, commented: “We’ve used APOLLO Lite™ and other FIREFLY™ products on many hundreds of projects in the past, FIREFLY™ is our ‘go to’ manufacturer when it comes to fire compartmentation. There are many older properties which have no fire compartmentation in their roof spaces and in the case of the Chingford doctor’s surgery, the landlord – Peabody – asked us to carry out an inspection and come up with a fire strategy. We base our recommendations and design drawings on FIREFLY'S standard details and, once they’ve been approved go in and install the fire barriers. The work involves breaking the loft-space down into a number of compartments with one of the Firefly access panels providing safe passage between them. The installation has gone very well, though there is a lot more of this type of work to be done across the country in many sectors.”The APOLLO Lite™ 30:30 has been developed for use in vertical separation or compartmentation situations, offering 30 minutes integrity and insulation and is straightforward to install for an experienced contractor. It is widely specified to form fire barriers within roof voids and floor voids in many different property types, including multi-storey flats and commercial premises.

The AliDeck System has rapidly become the de facto standard choice for balcony fire safety remediation projects. With our large range of non-combustible aluminium decking boards, joists, and pedestals our products offer practical and cost-effective solutions for any conceivable balcony refurbishment works.