"insulation"

A house dating back to around 1910 was dismantled in the St. Johann district of Basel to make way for a new building on the narrow plot. The construction company was forced to allow car, bicycle and pedestrian traffic to continue and had to make do with a building site that was severely restricted.The ten staircase elements were precast in architectural concrete at the factory, treated with Schöck Tronsole® products and shipped to the site where a crane lowered them individually into their exact position in the stairwell through an opening on the top floor. All of which took place without any standard fastening the elements – each weighing two tons – at the sides or on supports. After all, the challenge was to minimise the transmission of impact sound.Installation was performed by the on-site construction manager in Davidsbodenstrasse. It did not take long to win foreman Paul Willig over to the product: "The self-adhesive technology of Tronsole® makes it quick to install, without the need for tools.” Depending on the construction workflow, the impact sound insulation can also be easily applied at the prefabricating plant.

IntroductionFerrari World in Abu Dhabi is the world's first Ferrari theme park. The park includes 37 different rides and attractions and features the world's fastest rollercoaster “Formula Rossa” – reaching 240 km/h in 4.9 seconds. The park has been open since 2010 and has been nominated for numerous awards. Project:Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi needed a unique solution to allow for the maintenance of rollercoaster carts. Due to restricted space, a sliding hatch was proposed to allow easy craning in and out.Products Supplied Surespan manufactured and supplied an SLHE Aluminium, thermally broken, single leaf, electrically operated, sliding roof access hatch. The hatch was a large 5400 x 4000 structural opening sliding hatch.A sliding hatch allowed maximum clear space. Operated by a 230v geared motor. The lid and upstand are filled with 50mm thick CFC and HCFC free Polyisocyanurate insulation which offers a U-Value of 0.43W/m²K.

Fulham JettyBauder Bakor 790-11 hot melt structural system with Bauderflex waterproofing system and BauderGREEN sedum systemSynopsisFulham Wharf is a landmark regeneration scheme that began in 2013 and included the ecological enhancement of an abandoned jetty on the River Thames. This redevelopment was designed to provide the local community with an ecological education centre and bio-diverse wildlife reserve.Bauder Building BoardProject:Fulham JettyLocation:LondonRoof Area:1,000m²Specifier:FabrikApproved Contractor:Accurate RoofingProject challenges One of the major challenges for this roof was installing the central sloped section, which required exceptional levels of technical input and workmanship. This roofing area was waterproofed with the same bituminous green roof system as the upper roof; however a special timber design for retaining the substrate and sedum blanket was also needed. Since its official opening in October 2013, the lower wildflower roof has become a haven for a variety of different birds and insects.The resultThe building’s new roof swoops down to become a continuum with the jetty deck and is covered with a green habitat providing three distinct environments for wildlife; one on the flat roof, one on the slope and the third on the jetty deck. The education centre roof was waterproofed with Bauder’s root resistant bitumen membrane before then having a sedum blanket fitted. On the lower roof, 650m² of Bauder’s hot melt structural waterproofing was installed along with a wildflower blanket, providing an instant carpet of vegetation. Systems installedBauderflex bituminous waterproofing system1 BauderPLANT E 42A torch applied, SBS elastomeric bitumen capping sheet. The product features chemically treated bitumen to deliver superior root resistance which has been tested and approved by the FLL. The membrane is reinforced with 250g/m² spunbond polyester fleece to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture.2 BauderTEC SPRINT DUOSelf-adhesive bitumen underlayer with “DUO” lap technology to ensure thorough sealing of lap joints, even in lower temperatures. The product features a glass fleece reinforcement for strength and stability. The product benefits from cleaner, safer, and faster installation than traditional torch-applied membranes.3 BauderPIR FA-TELightweight, PIR flatboard insulation board with aluminium foil facing on both sides. This product has zero ozone depletion potential.4 BauderTEC KSD FBSSelf-adhesive air and vapour control layer with a mica finished upper surface to allow easy bonding of insulation using the specified Bauder Insulation AdhesiveBauder Bakor 790-11 hot melt waterproofing system1 BauderPLANT E 42Torch-on root-resistant, green capping sheet. Reinforced with spunbond polyester fleece to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture.2 790-11 with reinforcement layerHot melt rubberised bitumen asphalt with a percentage of post-consumer recycled materials that infills and fully bonds to all minor deviations in the deck.3 DeckPrimed concrete.Bauder XF 301 Sedum system1 BauderGREEN XF 301Sedum vegetation blanket instantly providing at least 90% coverage on an extensive green roof. Integrated water retention and filter layer.2 BauderGREEN AL 4040mm high perforated edge/drainage trim frames and retains the Bauder XF 301 sedum system.3 BauderGREEN SDFMulti-functional drainage and filtration layer which prevents the roots of sedum plants from becoming waterlogged.4 BauderPLANT ETorch-on root-resistant capping sheet green

Gloucester Transport Hub Bauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system SynopsisThe replacement bus station and regeneration of the surrounding area has created a unique and distinctive city centre building for the town. The design connects with Gloucester’s Roman heritage and association with aviation. The innovative roof design incorporated a canopy intended to reflect an aircraft wing that required a lightweight waterproofing and renewable energy photovoltaic (PV) solution.Bauder Building BoardProject:Gloucester Bus StationLocation:GloucesterProject Type:RefurbishmentRoof Size:1520m²Constructor: Kier Group PlcApproved Contractor:Kovara Projects LtdThe specificationThe Bauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system with the BauderSOLAR F PV solution met the brief precisely without compromising the aesthetics of the roof. This combination of Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system and BauderSOLAR F PV delivered a high quality, strong, energy efficient flat roof.This system was selected for the project because of its lightweight properties which complemented the deck and roof design. Light grey was chosen to reflect the colour of the cladding as the aesthetics was a key objective for the client.The OMG Rhinobond induction welding system was specified as the installation method which provided multiple advantages to the project, not only saving time and fasteners, but also optimising the field fix pattern of installation and ensuring that the load on the roof was spread between the induction welding plates. Products appliedBauder Thermofol U15 FR MembraneA high grade virgin polymer Thermofol PVC membrane ensures the optimum membrane characteristics to deliver high performance and a BBA stated life expectancy in excess of 35 years.BauderSOLAR F An aerodynamically optimised system for flat roofs using framed modules and mounting units, securing them to the roof using membrane-to-membrane welding techniques. This installation method means that the roof is not compromised by penetrations of fasteners or is it ballasted.Project challengesThe design of the Transport Hub and city centre location proved to be the key challenge to this project. The unusual roof configuration required a bespoke insulation scheme using BauderPIR M, an efficient rebated PIR insulation board, in order to achieve the required U-value of 0.18W/M²K.The deck configuration equally made the installation of the Bauder Thermofol PVC waterproofing system complex with the perimeter zone having to be carefully marked in compatability the wind calculation which included measuring factors such as wind speed, altitude, direction and exposure. Bauder and Kovara Projects were required to work closely together to ensure all criteria of the wind calculations were met. 40 modules of the lightweight BauderSOLAR PV solution were installed on the west side of the Transport Hub’s roof.The location of the project, Gloucester city centre, presented logistical challenges. Delivery of the roofing products had to be carefully scheduled and managed to avoid creating congestion in the area.The resultThe installation required constant co-operation and communication to embrace the live site operations within the restricted city centre location whilst allowing the bus station to remain fully functional. The roofing contractor delivered a superior standard solution and any complex issues that arose during the project were resolved promptly and collaboratively.System installedBauderThermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system  1 Bauder THERMOFOL U15 FR1.5mm polyvinyl chloride membrane (PVC) reinforced with a pre-coated polyester cross-weaved matting for mechanically fixed installations. 2 BauderPIR MThis efficient tissue-faced flatboard insulation has been specially developed for use within Bauder single ply systems. 3 BauderSYN DB-PE 100A blue, polyethylene air and vapour control layer. The product is installed by loose laying and suitable for Thermofol mechanically fastened and ballasted single ply systems.

webertherm XP External Wall Insulation system has been specified for a contemporary new build in a designated conservation area in South West England. The revolutionary system has been used on the walls of the property while weberpral M through-coloured render has been used extensively to long runs of concrete walling.The planning term ‘conservation area’ all too often results in unimaginative new build designs mimicking the surrounding aesthetics rather than offering creative architecture that enhances the area. This stunning new home in Somerset illustrates perfectly how architectural flare and modern building techniques are fused to deliver a property that contributes greatly to the local environment.The 430m² private residence has extensive glazing to capture the glorious rural views and to encourage the benefits of maximum natural light. Sleek expanses of webertherm XP EWI with webertherm M1 through-coloured render enhances the profile of the house from all aspects. By embracing the topography of the site, which placed the front entrance at first floor level, and letting the rest of the house flow down to a lower ground floor layout, the house presents a low and softened profile to the onlooker.An enlightened planning approval was achieved for this privately commissioned design by Jason Jackson of Jackson Architects Ltd, Taunton. “An earlier traditional design was not considered suitable by local planners and we were asked to offer alternative designs for this family home. The client was immediately excited about a minimalist and modern design idea and asked us to submit the application. After careful negotiation with the conservation and planning officers, they agreed that the contemporary architectural style of the building would make a highly individual but fitting addition to the very traditional properties in the area. The only significant condition imposed on the planning approval was the removal of the permitted development rights so as to protect the purity of the design! We were really quite amazed and flattered to get this acknowledgement,” smiles Jason Jackson.Matching the dramatic visual appeal of this unique property is the construction formula and advanced thermal efficiency that has been achieved. The external walls are constructed as a single skin formed with 215mm thermal blocks that are protected by webertherm XP EWI using 50mm of high performance phenolic insulation.  webertherm M1, an advanced one-coat, polymer modified, mineral render, is factory batched and designed for spray application to reduce on-site labour time and access costs and has been used in White. A decorative scraped texture finish has been applied to the White render which catches and holds the light.Mark Pickthall, of M P Plastering, Somerset, carried out the insulation and render application for contractor Fry Developments Limited. The applicator also specified weberend aid to create a key coat before applying weberpral M through-coloured render, in Chalk, to surface finish long runs of poured concrete walling running from the house to the drive and garage areas. “The superb smart finish of the house structure achieved with the scraped surface of the 250m² of webertherm M1 render really underlines the beautiful architecture of this house which makes a great statement in the locality. We are all pleased to have been part of this exciting project,” reports Mark.Simon Fry, Fry Developments, is equally proud of this new build and pleased to have accepted the recommendation to use the webertherm EWI system. “My experience has only been with traditional sand and cement renders but Mark highlighted the qualities of the Weber system and I must say the result is superb. It’s a ‘no risk’ decision now for Fry Developments to use Weber products on my future contracts.”

Our purposeAs one of the UK’s leading housing associations, the Guinness Partnership prides itself on providing high quality homes that meet or exceed current Standards. It is therefore committed to a continuous programme of maintenance and asset management across its 60,000 homes estate.As part of that process, the 13-storey 1980s-built Waverley Court in Crewe was due for refurbishment, including new windows and heating for the 95 flats therein. An initial survey highlighted that the 1200m2 roof was failing and in need of upgrade to maintain its weathertightness.Our in-depth roof report also identified that the insulation was below current standards. Safety on the roof for maintenance was also an issue: the existing handrail was originally erected as a temporary fixture, penetrating the waterproofing and providing inadequate rooftop security for working at height.Our solutionThe existing waterproofing had perished beyond useability. We advised complete strip of the existing back to the concrete deck, and building up a new thermally-efficient roof to meet current standards required under the Part L of current Building Regulations.Our TA-25 W Flat Roofing System for warm roofs was installed by Approved Contractor Everlast as sub-contractor to the principle contractor, Wates. To address the poor falls on the roof, the insulation was tapered to the perimeter. We achieved an overall roof U value of 0.17W/m2K, exceeding the current Regulatory requirement of 0.18W/m2K. In line with Safe2Torch guidelines, our self-adhesive system was used to detail around roof penetrations for extractor fans and similar plant.We highlighted and designed bridging details to maintain the fire integrity around compartment walls to comply with Part B3 of Building Regulations.We designed a new, permanent and safe handrail system. This is fixed to the brick façade of Waverley Court, avoiding any penetration of the roof fabric and thus maintaining its integrity and watertightness, whilst minimising maintenance requirements.“Langley’s expertise and attention to detail has enabled us to deliver on our ambition of providing homes that people want to live in. Langley’s performance has helped us provide a dry, warm, safe living environment that exceeds current Regulatory requirement. The independent insurance-backed guarantee covering design, materials and workmanship adds value to our long-term estate asset management.”

Salisbury Walk is part of the Girdlestone Estate in London, and the last phase to be upgraded by landlord the London Borough of Islington as part of their commitment to delivering decent homes standards.The TaskWorking to our detailed specification, Opus stripped the existing profiled metal roof and built up our TA-30 Flat Roofing System, installing insulation to achieve 0.18W/m2K as advised by current Building Regulations. Ventilation and rooflight hatches were also upgraded and new upstands fitted.The Outcome“Having achieved such a positive result in the refurbishment elsewhere on the estate by utilising the services of Langley and Opus, it gave peace of mind for all stakeholders to re-apply that formula in other works. It brings us a valued perspective, enabling us to make informed decisions going forward about the condition of the estate, knowing we have consistency in approach, design, materials and application. We also have the peace of mind, going forward, that the roofs are all upgraded to a high standard and are assured for decades to come.”Theo Petrou, Mears Group Project Manager

The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre at Sydney Harbour in New South Wales, Australia and is one of the 20th century’s most famous and distinctive buildings. The roof was created to resemble the sail of boats, this creative and very unique roof made it one of the most photographed buildings in the world. Interfloor was proud to supply 11,000 sqm of our Technics 5 underlay to all the carpeted public areas in this building. Duralay Technics 5 was chosen due to its superior flame retardancy, sound insulation properties & durability. With an End Use Classification (BS 5808: 1991: HC/U) of Heavy Contract Use, Technics 5 has an excellent recovery from compression which is essential as the building attracts nearly 11 million visitors each year! Not only is Technics 5 great for heavy footfall but it also acts as a sound reduction for both impact sound and airborne sound, so for commercial buildings like the Sydney Opera House, having underlay that also acts as sound reduction can really boost performance.

NORclad supplied nearly 7,000/LM of pre-coated Thermowood across this contemporary project in Berkhamsted.Thermowood is a great timber when it comes to applying a coating, after going through the heat treating process, the Finnish grown European Redwood/Whitewood (Scandinavian Pine/Spruce) is more stable. It is suitable in conditions of changing humidity, and its thermal insulation properties are improved, ideal for use in exposed areas such as External Timber Cladding.The heat treatment process enables the use of Scandinavian Redwood in areas requiring a service life of up to 30 years without the need for any further preservative or coating to be applied. The process removes resin from timber, as a result there is no resin leakage or “bleed” through the surface coatings. The effect of this together with the improved stability can lead to a lower maintenance requirement, combined with the application of the Sansin SDF system, which will further protect the outside of wood.The SDF product also protects the inside by allowing the timber to ‘breath’ – helping to prevent moisture from getting trapped in the wood and causing rot.

A £5m renovation scheme in Warrington has been presented with the “Best Change of Use to Existing Building” regional award by LABC (Local Authority Building Control) and Warrington Borough Council.The scheme required the conversion of a former office building, Kings Court, in Central Warrington, into 32 luxury flats, comprising of a mix of one and two bedroom apartments, arranged over three floors of accommodation. These flats are situated above retail units and restaurants. The renovation included a further two exclusive duplex penthouses for Phase 2.As part of the renovation, Main Contractor Emerald Bay Construction required an acoustic flooring solution to meet Approved Document ‘E’ Building Regulations and therefore provide overall resident comfort, in terms of Sound Insulation between separating floors. As the building structural floor was primarily concrete, Soundis put forward a solution that involved 2,072 m2 of Soundis ChipPanel 28 to help with Impact Noise. This shallow deck floating floor is ideal for concrete floors where Airborne Noise is not an issue but Impact Noise Attenuation needs to exceed the requirements of current Building Regulations.

Located on the north side of Wrexham town centre, the BREEAM excellent Yale Campus one of the largest projects undertaken by Coleg Cambria across its network of six campus sites, which has a base of 7,000 full time and 20,000 part time students.Maximising daylight and ventilation, the glazed façade spans 1,200 sqm across the building. Specified for proven performance and thermal insulation, TECHNAL curtain walling offers a fully capped, mullion-drained solution. With an aluminium substructure width of 52mm, it creates a slim sightline while also providing the necessary strength and inertia requirements.Contributing to higher credits for the critical Energy 01 part of BREEAM, which is concerned with the reduction of energy use and carbon emissions, TECHNAL A-rated Dualframe 75 Si windows offer exceptional energy efficiency. For the Yale campus, a U-value of 1.1W/m2K was achieved. As well as being inserted within the curtain walling, the windows have also been fitted in a vertical panel format to create a striking rectangular pattern within the gold cladding.

Based at Manchester’s waterfront in Salford Quays, MediaCityUK Studio Block is the largest media development in the UK and will become centre for the world’s leading creative and digital businesses. The BBC is one of mediacity:uk’s anchor tenants and from 2011 it will be home to five BBC departments including two TV channels and two radio stations; three of them are Radio Five Live, BBC Sport and CBeebies.Many of the studios in the main Studio Block have Stravifloor Jackup jack-up concrete slabs to optimise the sound insulation between noise producing and noise sensitive spaces. These floating floors in combination with the structure of the studios being isolated off Stravibase SEB simple elastomer bearings delivering high performance box-in-box constructions.The TV studios built off the upper floors were built using a heavily damped concrete construction supported at 600mm centres using Stravifloor Deck isolation rails. In these studios the structure of the studios was built off the floating floors to create the box-in-box whilst providing very stable conditions for the TV cameras.

Initial project meetings first started in early 2008, the clients owned a small cottage on the site which had been extended several times during the 80’s and had permission to make further adaptations. The mixture of building standards meant that their home was extremely drafty and very energy inefficient. The site itself is particularly exposed. The design which achieved planning permission was a crescent form which steps and slides into the slopes on the site. The crescent formation is in direct response to solar orientation.The brief was to design a building which would accommodate the family for many years into the future, the planned occupancy would be for 5 adults. Additionally, the home will be used for large family occasions. A requirement was set for a minimum 16 seated spaces to be available for dining during these family occasions.Op-Deck was added into the scheme very early into the design process as the way of creating the highly insulated structural floor as the house was being designed under Passivhaus standards. The overall U-value of the property is 0.1w/m2K as standard. The system was installed on the lower and ground floors and also the roof.

The building brings together the Kent Business School and the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science to promote synergies, collaboration and interaction, foster knowledge exchange and enhance the reputation of both schools. The development had a construction cost of approximately £26m and was completed at the end of 2016.The 8,200m2 building for University of Kent’s Business School and School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science is located towards the northern edge of the Canterbury campus. The £26m facility creates a vibrant new campus destination and allows two of the University’s most successful departments to expand and improve their current activities.Designed to achieve BREEAM Excellent a series of interventions integrate the building into the campus and the ecology including new cycle and pedestrian pathways and green roofs that help increase biodiversity. Passive measures of natural ventilation with thermal mass and night time cooling are prioritised over active measures. Extensive roof mounted photovoltaic panels provide in excess of 10% renewable energy.Shield Membranes supplied all waterproofing, insulation and finishes to all roof areas on the Sibson Building.

SubFloor acoustic flooring was used to renovate, raise and acoustically dampen a 828 m² floor into 12 luxury apartments near Nottingham city centre.This simple and elegant solution raised an uneven floor up to 300 mm to allow for installations and insulation. The joist and screw system allows for quick and easy assembly so that the floor can reach the desired height. Acoustic feet were mounted onto the SubFloor screws for acoustic damping between apartments.Products:Wooden Joist 45x45x3600 mmSubFloor Screw 300 mmScrew Foot AcousticHeight Variation: 73 - 323 mmSystem Weight - c/c 600 mm: 2.86 kg/m²Materials:Pine T0-C24Fibre-reinforced VitamidePolyamidePoint Load 50 x 50 mm: 5.3 kN12.84 kN/m² - Between screws12.73 kN/m² - Next to screw over joist[According to SS-EN 1195:1998] Acoustic Damping: Up to 28 dB[rating according to ISO 717-2]

11 High Baxter Street is within the Town Centre Conservation Area and is located in one of the streets which make up the Norman planned town set out on a grid system in the 12th Century. It is however a sole survivor, the rest of the street having been demolished in the 1960’s.The property has a core dating back to the 15th Century, with alterations in every century after. By the end of the 20th Century however, having survived 500 years, it was distinctly unloved, had become flats, then eventually a semi-derelict squat.In January 2019 the Bury St. Edmunds Town Trust (BTT) had come to its rescue, completing the pur- chase of the building and drawing up plans for the conservation and restorationA detailed condition report was carried out by local RIBA conservation architects Whitworth.Best of Lime’s Warmcote insulated lime plaster was specified as the base coat, with our Limecote tra- ditional chalk/lime plaster as the finish. Both products are non-hydraulic and designed to cope with the extreme background movement of an historic timber frame.

BACKGROUND: The 74,843-square-foot Student Pavilion is situated at the nexus of student activity on the Tempe campus of Arizona State University (ASU). The building, which was designed to be a Net Zero Energy building, delivers green qualities including renewable energy, energy-efficiency and zero waste to showcase of the university’s goals for Climate Net Neutrality and sustainable building systems. SOLUTION: In order to properly daylight the 21,000-square-foot space on each level and meet design goals, Weddle Gilmore Black Rock Studio utilized the Solatube SolaMaster Series 330 and 750 DS-C units. To ensure a consistent amount of daylight, the design team used Solatube’s proprietary Design Calculator to determine the number of units needed on each level and the amount of light that the Solatube Daylighting Systems would bring into the spaces. Thermal insulation panels were also added to limit the amount of heat transfer into the building from the roof, and extension turrets were used to raise the outer domes and limit the amount of shade cast upon the devices. 

With the success of Media City, Manchester has now become the Media Centre of the UK and the best place to study for a job in TV, Film and Radio.Manchester Metropolitan University has built a brand new Media Facility with industry standard studios to allow them to teach students in the highest quality spaces.Our local branch was employed to design, supply and install the concrete floating floors for 12 studios.The 100 mm thick concrete floating floors supported the drylining walls and ceilings to create box-in-box constructions with very high standards of sound insulation.The 50 mm void beneath the 100 mm concrete floating floors was created using Stravifloor Channel isolation rails and the voids were vented to avoid the trapped air layer reducing the isolation performance.Most of the studios were supported off stiff structural slabs with a natural frequency of >10Hz and the specification for the bearings was given as <8Hz.One of the studios, however, was supported off a supporting slab with a natural frequency of 6Hz and the specification for the bearings was changed to 12Hz in this studio to avoid structural vibration amplification.

Unit 25 Cambridge Science Park is a state of the art facility providing laboratories and office space for Bio tech and Med Tech companies. This BREEAM Good facility was built by SDC and features an external façade of glass, metallic panels and fins for solar shading. At each corner of the building a chamfered picture frame feature of curtain walling and panels, adds to the modern design. Metalline who manufacture a range of architectural fabrications worked closely with MTW Architectural the specialist façade contractor to ensure that all materials were delivered on time and to exact specification. They supplied in excess of 1000m2 of A2 Ultima insulated panels, Unity interlocking rainscreen panels, interlocking soffits, copings, pressings and cills for the project.The picture frame finish to the corners of the building were finished in a slate grey polyester powder coating. The horizontal rainscreen panels used to break up the expanse of glass shown on the front of the building were finished in tiger drylac 068/70764 PPC This finish mimics an anodised finish and features on all four sides of the building 

Kidwells Estate, on the outskirts of Maidenhead in Berkshire, is undergoing major regeneration involving seven new blocks, which are part timber clad and vary from three to six storeys of structural concrete frame. Long cantilever walkways that service multiple flats are a feature of the new development and the unusual design demands of the walkways presented a technical challenge.The solution required a relatively unusual combination of products and Schöck resolved the various issues by designing in its Isokorb® T type HP. It is a product utilised only if horizontal, tension and compression forces are present in the design and additionally it is necessary to integrate the Schöck Isokorb® T types Q-P as well, for linear or point connection to support high shear loads. Schöck Dorn type SLD Q50 heavy duty stainless steel dowels were also incorporated to enable the transfer of vertical shear forces and allow two directional lateral movements at the expansion joints. The result was a completely secure thermally insulated load-bearing connection at all of the restricted, but key structural points.

Two shades of blue, light and dark, formally in glass panels, needed to be replicated when the glass was removed and replaced within areas of the rainscreen façade and spandrel panels across all levels of a student accommodation tower block in Kings Cross, London.Powdertech was sent shards of blue glass from the old windows, to match with a powder coating both in shade and gloss level. Working in close contact with the client Powdertech directed one of its powder manufacturers to make two unique shades of blue to match the old glass in both colour and gloss. Powdertech coated 4500 sq m of aluminium spandrel panels of sizes ranging from 350mm by 2500 mm to a larger size of 900mm by 4500mm.The non-combustible cladding panels are designed to help prevent fire damage quickly and easily spreading as part of the system. They perform to technical criteria, sound insulation and thermal performance and reduce environmental issues. Powdertech’s powder coatings and application techniques all conform to reaction to fire rating A2-s1,d0, thus contributing to the fire safety of the panels

Project DescriptionThe capital of Austria, Vienna, is home to one of the country's most powerful structures: The parliament building from the 19th century comprises the seat of the two chambers of parliament, the National Council as well as the Federal Council of the Republic of Austria.As part of the general renovation of the historic building complex on Vienna's Ringstrasse, Lindner GmbH was involved in the construction project with numerous products and services. In addition to the repair of damage to the building fabric, the main objective was the general modernization of the property within the framework of the preservation of historical monuments. The combination of Lindner's modern hollow floor system FLOOR and more® and the historic overlay therefore met all the requirements. In order to continue to preserve the classic look of the wall and ceiling surfaces, the entire building services were installed in the access floor - completely in line with the maxim of sustainability.Completed Works:Floors:Calcium sulphate panels                         - FLOOR and more® comfort                - FLOOR and more®Cement fibre panels:                               - HYDRO comfortCeilings:Heated and Chilled Plasterboard Ceilings-Plafotherm® GK HEKDA®Insulation Engineering

Aviva Studios, Manchester - The New Home of Factory International:Fire resistant, acoustic joint sealing of the complex facades, has been completed with Emshield-WFR and Emshield QuietJoint from NCC Movement joints Limited. NCC Movement joints have supplied Emshield-WFR-2 and Emseal QuietJoint to seal the wide, high movement capability, expansion joints in the complex facades of the new Aviva Studios in Manchester. Aviva Studios are new arts and cultural venues, which are now the new home of Factory International, and located in the centre of St John’s. This is the 13-acre regeneration project around the old Granada TV studios in Manchester. On this prestige project, the architect was Ellen van Loon, a partner at OMA (Office of Modern Architecture), who designed the buildings to create an eclectic environment for the arts, including striking and complex architectural facades. This included her trademark industrial styled finishes, cladding the facades with corrugated metal panels, and incorporating large exposed concrete surfaces. Structural engineering for the project was provided by Burro Happold. The structural movement joints in the external façade and walls, as well as in some of the floor slabs, had to be designed to accommodate not only significant movement (+/-50% or more), whilst maintaining watertightness, but also to be CE certified fire resistant for at least 2 hours, and it was also essential to maintain the high acoustic soundproofing and thermal insulation of the building across the façades.Emshield-DFR/WFR-2 for internal joint sealing, from NCC Movement Joints Limited was the ideal solution, quickly installed as a complete system to meet all the specified requirements in a single solution, with no mechanical fixings, and without disrupting other trades. The Emshield system was installed by TECL (Thermal Engineering Contracts Ltd) as the acoustic and firestopping specialists on the project, as well as by the specialist façade manufacturers, Lindner Prater.The 13,350 m2 building has been designed to provide open spaces that are flexible, adaptable, and capable of being reconfigured for a wide variety of shows at different scales. The key facilities are The Hall, an auditorium that seats 1,600 but can accommodate 2,000 standing; and The Warehouse, an open performance space 21 metres high, with capacity for 5,000 people, all designed and built with advanced acoustic-insulation. They can function separately or together, with a stage that can stretch back to a depth of 45 meters. Factory International are named after the Factory Records record-label, which was founded by the late Tony Wilson ran Manchester’s Haçienda nightclub in the 1980’s and launched bands such as the Happy Mondays and Joy Division. Their new home at Aviva Studio complex is the first public project by OMA in the United Kingdom, and already regarded as the most ambitious cultural development for the future in Manchester.

The Problem:Associated problems caused by damp and flooding are commonplace throughout the UK’s housing stock. Growth of black mould and efflorescence caused by salt transfer can lead to thedelamination of the plaster and there is no simple resolution. Often the only choice left to the housing association or local authority is to remove the original plaster and treat the walls with a Damp Proof Course (DPC), before waiting for it to dry to receive a backing plaster – all at the expense of the landlord or local authority.The Solution: A Modern, Lightweight Renovating Plaster:Limelite Renovating Plaster solves all of these problems. Firstly, it can be applied to damp walls, saving an enormous amount of money for time that would be otherwise spent waiting for the walls to dry out – it effectively controls dampness passing through walls, as well as providing a barrier against salt transfer – ultimately allowing the substrate to dry naturally. Secondly, and crucially, Limelite Renovating Plaster will withstand damp issues caused by future events, which may be likely in properties susceptible to damp and flooding.Thirdly the Limelite plaster system offers Thermal Insulation by drying the walls rapidly, reducing loss of heat and insulating the internal walls to meet modern day standardsThermal Conductivity, λ10,dry,mat, P=50% = 0.17W/m.KThermal Conductivity (k) at 0% moisture = 0.13W/m.KAnother benefit with Limelite plasters for internal use is their fire resistance/protection as a non-combustible product (as defined by BS476:Part 4) which can be assigned Class O in accordance with the requirements of the National Building Regulations and Reaction to Fire = Euroclass A1 Making the Difference for Local Authorities Dudley Council in the West Midlands is among the many local authorities that specify the use of Limelite Renovating Plaster when tackling such issues in social housing.“Where a renovating plaster is required we use the original and proven, Limelite” said Andy Pratt, Specification and Design Manager for Dudley Council, which has been specified by the council for over 40 years.Where existing plaster is sound, a small area of plaster is removed and replaced with Limelite.In more severe cases where the existing plaster is unsound, all plaster is removed and the wall is treated with a DPC before Limelite Renovating Plaster is applied. Limelite Renovating Plaster is also used for patch repairs in areas such as window reveals, where again the damaged plaster is removed and replaced with Limelite.A BBA Approved SystemLimelite Renovating Plaster is a BBA approved solution, when used as the backing plaster in a 2-part system, finished with our High Impact Finishing Plaster - a hard, durable finishing plaster that produces a Grade D impact resistant surface.

Project:Ysgol Newydd Corn Hir Client: Anglesey County Council Contractor: Wynne Construction Architect: Lovelock Mitchell Architects Value: £10m Location:Llangefni, Anglesey Completion Date: April 22 Innovare duration onsite 14 weeks GIFA m²:2932m2 Airtightness: 5m3/m2/hConstruction of the £10m Ysgol Newydd Corn Hir primary school on the outskirts of Llangefni, Anglesey, opened its doors to pupils in April 2022. The school provides the 250 pupils with the facilities and resources to include modern and well-equipped classrooms and suitable outdoor areas for play and learning. The school replaced the old Ysgol Corn Hir which had been previously deemed as “not fit for purpose”. Innovare’s Structurally Insulated Panel System works to a detailed 3D design model in which potential clashes and buildability issues have been resolved. This provides the greatest possible certainty that buildings will be ready for use on schedule and delivered within the agreed budget. The technology is also significantly less prone to delays caused by poor weather or shortages of materials and skilled labour. The Innovaré SIP System accelerates project delivery and delivers ambitious building performance outcomes. The new school is designed specifically around the needs of the children that will be attending, and it will provide an outstanding educational setting. Careful consideration has been given to all aspects of the design process to help promote engagement, well-being, and achievement. Structural insulated panel external walls were used for the teaching wings. Having collaborated on several education projects, Wynne Construction, Innovaré, and Lovelock Mitchell Architects have established an excellent working relationship. This permitted the project team to efficiently identify the most effective way to deploy offsite methods. Airtightness of 5m3/m2/h Extensive use of structural timber reduced embodied carbon levels as well as significant sequestered carbon within the timber structure. Delivering this level of real-world performance alongside time and cost savings is the product of a close partnership.Mr Rhys Roberts, the headteacher has been in post for the past eight years said.: “The children, parents, governors, and staff were “delighted and excited” about their new school. It is not often in this career that you get the opportunity to be at the beginning of a school’s history. To have a say in its future and part of the team helping to plan it for the generations of children that will come here, it is quite a privilege. The new school has been purposely built with the new curriculum in mind, and it has so much more space and facilities”.

Byker WallBauder Total Roof System (BTRS)SynopsisAs part of the £26 million refurbishment of this Grade II listed residential estate, which features a continuous block of over 600 properties, work was performed to not only repair the existing roof but to bring Byker Wall to the forefront of modernday roofing technology with the installation of a state-of-the-art photovoltaic system.Bauder Building BoardProject:Byker WallLocation:Newcastle upon TyneRoof Area:4,500m²Specifier:Your Homes NewcastleMain Contractor:KeepmoatApproved Contractor:Hodgson SayersProducts appliedBauder Total Roof SystemAn integrated bituminous system with a life expectancy in excess of 40 years as stated in BBA cert,BauderSOLARPhotovoltaic system was installed with 132 PV modules being fitted.The resultBefore replacing the existing waterproofing the team needed to convert the pitched metal roof back to its original flat roof status by removing the profiled metal sheets and timber framework. Subsequently, Hodgson Sayers then installed 4,500m² of Bauder’s top quality reinforced bitumen system, which included a highly efficient 120 mm PIR insulation. Four of the ten housing blocks were fitted with 132 PV Modules, enabling Byker Wall to generate at least 39.6 Megawatt Hours of solar power each year. All work was completed on time and to budget in December 2015, much to the delight of all project stakeholders.System installedBauder Total Roof System (BTRS)1 Bauder K5KA heavy duty, torch-applied SBS elastomeric bitumen capping sheet, featuring a spunbond polyester reinforcement to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture. The mineral finish provides protection against UV degradation.2 BauderTEC KSA DUO 35A technically advanced self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen underlayer with “DUO” lap technology to ensure thorough sealing of lap joints, even in lower temperatures.3 BauderPIR FA-TEAn efficient PIR insulation board with aluminium foil facing on both sides. The top facing features a printed grid pattern to aid site cutting. It is lightweight and has zero ozone depletion potential.4 BauderTEC KSD FBSA self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen air & vapour control layer, with a mica finish.AdvocacyKevin Scott, Property Services Manager at Your Homes Newcastle:“Byker Wall is an exceptional example of how modern roofing can revive a historical landmark. Bauder and Hodgson Sayers delivered a roofing solution of the highest quality giving us total confidence in the future performance of the roof.”

Nestled in the fashionable, switched-onNestled in the fashionable, switched-on London borough of Camden, high-performance London Max Fordham House has been completed  to the highest energy saving standards with to the highest energy saving standards with SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT.An ultra-low energy, all-electric, contemporary three-bedroom ‘Passivhaus’, Max Fordham House is specifically designed by bere: architects to feature a thermal envelope geared towards reducing heat loss. The less heat lost from a building, the more overall environmentally efficient it can be. One way to do achieve as little heat loss as possible is making the building airtight, which is the aim of the Passivhaus system.SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT, a structural OSB panel with integrated vapour control developed by MEDITE SMARTPLY especially for use in Passivhaus construction, is the vital ingredient in this project. Specified by the award-winning Bow Tie Construction company, SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT provides a state-of-the-art, engineered vapour barrier with consistently high vapour resistance over the entire surface.“The house uses a fabric-first Passivhaus approach, requiring only a fraction of the energy needed by a similarly sized home built to the minimum requirements of UK Building Regulations, for all uses including “The house uses a fabric-first Passivhaus approach, requiring only a fraction of the energy needed by a similarly sized home built to the minimum requirements of UK Building Regulations, for all uses including heating,” Hagop Heath-Matossian, Business Development Manager at Bow Tie Construction, says.“We chose to specify SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT because it is efficient, reliable and it was important to us that all timber products used were sustainably manufactured and sourced; AIRTIGHT offered us a guaranteed sustainable timber solution. Vitally, the client was delighted with the end result.”Max Fordham House, which was completed in the Spring of 2019 and achieves an Energy Performance Certificate of B 83, is the third project that Bow Tie Construction has specified PROPASSIV for, favouring it for its rigidity and quality assurance compared to a traditional membrane-based system.Hagop explains: “AIRTIGHT was specifically used to insulate the roof of the Max Fordham House, but has been used within the entire interior space in other Passivhaus projects previously, to great success.”In most Passivhaus projects in the UK, a membrane is used as an airtight barrier for the properties’ insulation, however, such solutions can be easily damaged during the construction process. SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT offers a solution to this as it will not come apart during a negative pressure test like a membrane would.

Basildon & Thurrock University HospitalBauder Total Roof System (BTRS) and LiquiTEC cold applied waterproofing systemSynopsisBasildon and Thurrock University Hospital’s existing roof was failing in multiple areas, and 80 rooflights needed replacing. The client wanted the refurbishment to make as little impact as possible on the departments directly below which included drug refrigeration, x-ray and ultrasound clinics, patient wards and operating theatres.Bauder Building BoardProject:Basildon & Thurrock University HospitalLocation:EssexProject Type:RefurbishmentRoof Area:900m²Specifier:NHSApproved Contractor:Breyer ConstructionProject challengesThe plant on the rooftop could not be turned off or raised and many of the AC units and boilers had to be left running due to the nature of the rooms below. Certain areas had to be repaired before others and detailing under and around the plant that could not be raised was almost an impossible task. When working around the plant, COSHH regulations had to be considered and adhered to.The result Coordinating with both the client and approved contractors was key in this project, and by using cold liquid applied waterproofing the contractors could ensure a watertight seal with quick application, allowing them to complete the remainder of the roof using reinforced bitumen membrane, and meet the tight project deadline of 12 weeks.System installedBauder Total Roof System (BTRS)Suitable for a variety of applications on both new build and refurbishment projects and can be used in warm, cold and inverted roof scenarios.1 Bauder K5KA top quality, heavy duty, torch-applied SBS elastomeric bitumen capping sheet. The product features a spunbond polyester reinforcement to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture, and a mineral finish to provide protection against UV degradation.2 BauderTEC KSA DUO 35A 3mm thick technically advanced self-adhesive elastomeric bitumen underlayer with DUO lap technology and glass lattice reinforcement.3 BauderPIR FA G16 Tapered (laid to falls)Tapered insulation is a lightweight, convenient, easy to install and cost-effective alternative method of providing falls to a roof instead of incorporating them into the structure.4 BauderTEC KSD FBSA technically advanced, self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen air & vapour control layer, with a mica finished upper surface to allow easy bonding of insulation using the specified Bauder insulation adhesive.LiquiTEC Roof SystemThe Bauder LiquiTEC roof systems combine ease of application, fast cure and durability to provide a cold applied liquid waterproofing product second to none.1 LiquiDEK with reinforcement layerA cold applied liquid fast curing waterproofing resin, for use on the main roof area of the LiquiTEC Roof System. It is applied in 2 coats ‘wet-on-wet’, with a layer of Bauder 110g reinforcement fleece between them. The product is a PMMA based resin and requires the addition of catalyst to trigger curing. It is solvent, isocyanate and halogen free, minimizing its environmental impact.2 BauderTEC KSD DUOCarrier membrane & Vapour Barrier is a technically advanced self-adhesive elastomeric bitumen vapour barrier with patented “DUO” lap technology. The product features an aluminium foil facing for vapour impermeability.AdvocacyBreyer Roofing’s Contracts Manager for the project, Kerry Cutts:“The main challenge was working around the hospital’s requirements. For example, we provided a weekly plan for the areas we were working in and the rooflights / plant affected. Where possible, we worked out of hours while doing rooflight replacements to minimise any issues. We also worked closely with Bauder to vary the specification when we had to work around live plant. The communication between Bauder and Breyer Roofing was exemplary throughout and I was pleased this completed project was nominated for a national award."

The £15million new Tarka Leisure Centre in Barnstaple, was designed to link with the existing Tarka Tennis Centre. There is now a natural flow between the existing and new part of the completed facility. Sport England invested £1.8m of National Lottery funding into the development of Tarka Leisure Centre to support the ‘get active’ initiative by making the facilities accessible and inclusive for the local community. The new centre, officially opened by British Winter Olympics hero Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards, provides a much-needed swimming pool facility, an ‘endless’ indoor ski slope facility, a sports hall with four badminton courts, a large gym, two multi-purpose exercise studios, a spin studio, indoor soft play area, new reception area and café.With leisure centres having a high footfall and being a naturally noisy environment, it was paramount to consider the fire safety and acoustics of the building.  Lusso 105FR, a double-glazed fire-rated system, which provides acoustic performance of up to 54dB and fire performance of up to 60 minutes integrity and insulation was the ideal choice for this environment. Lusso Structural Glazing was installed where a higher specification level was required for edge protection.

This newly renovated block is a new executive apartment scheme based on Duhamel Place, St Helier.With completion in Q4 2023, this selection of modern new build apartments come to the market offering spacious living, whilst allowing plenty of natural light throughout. The design of the apartments has been done by Page Architects and finished to a high specification by Park Homes.Build-up 1: 5mm laminate flooring (Carpet in bedrooms) – 25mm GenieBoard 302 – 5mm GenieMat RST05 – 18mm plywood – 185mm steel joists – 150mm acoustic insulation within joists – 2No 15mm FireLine board – Suspended metal frame ceiling incorporating GenieClip LB – 12.5mm wallboard – skim finish.Build-up 2: 5mm laminate flooring (Carpet in bedrooms) – 5mm GenieMat RST05, 175mm concrete slab, GenieClip RST ceiling - 12.5mm wallboard – skim finish.The post completion testing demonstrates that the environmentally friendly construction has exceeded residential requirements by 3dB in airborne (achieving DnT,w +Ctr 48dB in situ) and 7dB in impact (achieving L'nT,w 55dB in situ) while offering a quick and simple install. 

As a key part of the University of Lancaster's Preston Campus, the £32 million Engineering Innovation Centre provided the university and Lancashire based manufacturers with state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities. This helps to train an extra 500 graduates, including an increasing number of female students, gaining degrees in subjects such as mechanical, energy technologies and aerospace engineering. Throughout the entire project, there were a number of technical challenges that needed to be met. These include the building's proximity to a very busy roundabout, the floor to floor heights, physical security, the expected levels of solar gain as well as design detailing requirements. Having a total glazed area of 3,100m2, the aluminium curtain wall carries over 40 different types of IG units, along with high density foam inserts utilised alongside decoupling joints in the mullion section - achieving 50 Dnfw flanking sound reduction, as well as 37 dB sound reduction for noise outside the building. In addition to achieving high levels of thermal insulation, being fabricated from aluminium, the curtain walling frame elements can be recycled, helping to achieve the BREEAM rating of Excellent.

Radbrook VillageShrewsburyCemfloor was the screed of choice for Radbrook Village, a mix of 3 and 4 bedroom homes along with 1 and 2 bedroom apartments in the magnificent refurbished Radbrook Hall.Floreat Homes were the developers of this project, which was contracted to SJ Roberts Construction, while the screed was installed by Ryflow Liquid Screeds.Cemfloor provided the ideal solution for the screeds on thisdevelopment. The speed of installation and the fact that floors can be walked on after a day provided the least disruption to other trades and the rapid drying avoided concerns re installation of floor finishes. The benefits to the efficiency of the underfloor heating were also attractive to the project. Cemfloor’s compatibility with underfloor heating, which has grown in popularity in recent years, and the ability to be laid at 50mm gave the builder scope with thickness of insulation and floor finishes. The screed totally encapsulated the underfloor heating pipework and eliminated air voids which ensured optimal heat transfer from the heating pipework to the screed surface.With the advent of flowing screeds, as well as the traditional sand and cement screeds, there is great choice in the market to find a product that suits your needs when it comes to durability, time management and installation.

Smet Supported Partner, NRS Group machine applied the LIDL External Render System onto Poroton blocks externally using as Base Coat: Bauprotec 850 M - Lightweight Lime Cement Render, and as Key Coat: Change of substrate concrete/steel pillar/Poroton block or mass concrete and insulated plinths: Bauprotec RHS Multi-Purpose Render.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.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 on.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.

The iconic architecture of the three Kranhäuser buildings in Cologne’s former commercial harbour is reminiscent of the old loading cranes that could once be found here. While the two initial structures were designed as office spaces, the last in the collection – Kranhaus Nord – is entirely residential. This means there were high standards to meet with regard to impact sound insulation in this construction. Fortunately, Schöck Tronsole® type T offered the perfect system solution in this regard.Both the structural engineering and architectural planning processes for this residence had to be adapted accordingly to suit the high-end use of the building. Unlike the design of the office buildings, the bridge abutments are connected via an atrium that leads to the premium apartments rather than being separated.The main stairwell runs right alongside premium apartments, which means sound proofing was a key consideration. This was required not only due to standard building regulations, but also for the fact that “as a provider of luxury apartments complete with a whole host of amenities for international clients, people expect top quality. Thus, the decision was made to use the Schöck Tronsole® sound proofing system: A tried-and-tested solution for integration into stairwells.”

Hammerson House will be a world-class, 116-bed residential centre for the elderly Jewish Community in Hampstead. Newton Specialist Contractor Cast Contracting Ltd (CCL) were approached during the planning stages to develop a comprehensive waterproofing solution for the extensive basement.CCL recommended the installation of a Newton CDM water management system to comprehensively waterproof the extensive basement. First, they employed the 8mm Newton 508 membrane to the concrete retaining walls of the basement. The 50mm thick Fibran XPS 500-C insulation was then installed beneath more 508 membrane across the entire concrete slab. Additionally, Basedrain drainage channel was installed around the perimeter, including inspection ports to provide a fully maintainable system.This entire system is served by a series of complete sump and pump systems, each consisting of primary and backup NP400 pumps, high water level alarms, and battery backup systems. These are all controlled by Newton’s advanced Control Panel-Pro to ensure a failsafe system, even during a power outage.Finally, Newton’s 107F cementitious waterproof membrane was spray applied to the concrete upstands of the lightwells and lift pits in order to complete the continuous watertight solution.

Perched on an elevated plane above the tranquil Suffolk village of Rattlesden, Rising Sun Hill is a bespoke residential housing development that seeks to blend in with its surroundings while standing out among other new builds for its character.The 22 homes include eight that will be offered as affordable housing. Individually conceptualised, the homes feature finishes that draw on traditional materials and designs, such as weatherboarding and rendering. To reflect the space of the surrounding countryside, the homes (which range from 2-4 bedrooms) are roomy, both inside and out. Large, landscaped gardens, stone paths, patios and generous planting of shrubs and trees complete the idyllic setting.But attention to detail hasn’t just been dedicated to aesthetics. Consideration has also been given to the homes’ long-term sustainability, with each home being fitted with an air source heat pump and well-designed insulation.The very fabric of the buildings, from the blockwork to the timber frame, has been scrutinised too. For developer Hartog Hutton, it was just as important to use high-quality materials as it was to give each building its own individual flair.