"development areas"

The Cormorant residential project is a collection of luxurious riverside homes being delivered by property developer Green & Rock. Location: CornwallDeveloper: Green and RockArchitect: MadorAspex supplied: Novista concealed Doorsets and Novista Sliding Doorsets

Beecholme is a detached house which has been converted to create seven flats. This development has been the subject of extension to make a kitchen and living room overlooking the rear garden for one of these flats. In addition, five of these flats include a ground floor bedroom and family room with an ensuite, providing versatility to suit a family’s needs. This development comes with allocated parking.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 28 was specified by CROE Architects due to the high sound reduction performance and low floor levels. As it’s suitable for all floor types, it is frequently viewed as the solution of choice for new build and refurbishment developments. Its interlocking edges for installation convenience, high density, and unique resilient layer provides unrivalled acoustic performance.JB Carpentry was supplied 338m² of Cellecta products for this development in Welwyn.

This development includes a tower that will exceed the height of the Burj Khalifa, and a sanctuary development with exclusive villas and a canal district. Sustainability is at the heart of development, with a road and transport network designed to minimize environmental impact, as well as various ecological initiatives, including artificial forests and open green spaces. In this project, it is being used the A2 Class fire rated weatherproofing membrane Effisus Vapour FR to protect façade from environmental agents with superior fire resistance, and the bi-adhesive tape Effisus 2Bond DS, to seal the connections on the façades.

Clancy Quay is a high-profile residential development situated in Dublin. Made up of 845 units which can house 1,800 residents, Clancy Quay is the largest multifamily community in Ireland. The scheme presents a mix of new-build townhouses, apartments and conversions of historic army barracks, which gives the development a distinctive identity. A wide variety of Tobermore paving products were laid at each construction phase which spanned over a 12-year period. The development won the prestigious RIAI Housing Award in 2018.

The 18-storey Telereal development now known as The Helm, comprises 159 residential units, 2,800sqft of retail space and 37,000sqft of Grade A office and underground car parking, developed by Watkin Jones and utilising SPSenvirowall’s new and innovative Cavity System 1. The £300,000 façade package utilised a high-performing, buff flexible brick slip (SpeedySlip) and 100-150mm mineral wool to achieve a 0.20 u-value calculation. The application of brick slips to the Cavity System gives the Helm development a traditional and authentic finish desired by the client.

Wienerberger's Porotherm Cellular Clay Blocks (PTH100, PTH140, PTH190) were used to construct a McCarthy and Stone development, in Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire, consisting of 32 one and two bedroom apartments, and was the third Porotherm development to be undertaken in the West Midlands region.

When London Green Developments wanted the latest trend in facade cladding for a new development of town houses in Essex, they didn’t look much further than Hardie® Plank cladding to provide a durable and visually impactful finish. Being that ‘The Beach Houses’ were situated at a popular beachfront location, a selection of colourful cladding finishes were chosen to complement the seaside location and the unique style of the development. Hardie® Plank cladding not only met the aesthetic criteria but as the houses are in close proximity to the sea, it will also provide excellent protection from the harsh elements.’

Designed by EDF and NORD Architecture, the first building completed on the Olympic site was the Substation that powered the whole Olympic site. The Legacy plans also meant that it would remain for the post-Olympic development as well, to power future developments for the Stratford City Development. Construction started in 2007, was completed in time for the 'Power On' date of June 2009 and was built by Winchmore Brickwork, using Ibstock Himley bricks and including Naylor Concrete Lintels supplied by Civils and Lintels, Erith. The building won several awards including the prestigious 'Best Brickwork in Britain' award in 2010.

Neaco’s glass balustrade and aluminium grille systems are once again proving their value in contemporary design schemes following a specification at Fawcetts Yard, a development of luxury homes in Harrogate. Designed by Bramhall Blenkharn and built by HACS Construction, the select development comprises four stylish three-storey homes alongside a workshop/studio. The balconies on each home feature Neaco’s Techdek decking as well as their Elan semi-structural balustrade system with aluminium stanchions and handrails in a grey powder coated finish. The result is an attractively minimalist aesthetic in keeping with the development’s modern design and finish.

Alexandra House, a former health clinic, delivers 16 affordable, high-quality homes meeting low energy and dependable living standards. Comprising of 9 two bedroom flats which front the main junction of Northern Parade and Doyle Avenue, adjacent are 4 three bedroom houses and 3 Dependable living houses. This development is Portsmouth City Council’s most energy efficient scheme, utilising an all-electric set up, sourced from a number of PV Panels within the development.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 28 was specified by HGP Architects due to it being suitable for all floor types and is frequently viewed as the solution of choice for new build and refurbishment developments. Its interlocking edges for installation convenience, high density, and unique resilient layer provides unrivalled acoustic performance.PMC Construction were supplied 482m² of Cellecta products for this development in Hilsea, Portsmouth.

The ChallengeA new development of 15 individually designed four and five-bedroomed homes set in over four acres of mature woodlands in Nottingham.Each home in this secluded development was to be built over three storeys and designed and styled with the latest contemporary finishes, both inside and out. With a gated entrance, the private development is set down into its own valley, but still has breath-taking views of the city.The SolutionForterra’s Mandarin Mixture and Yorkshire Red Blend Butterley Bricks were chosen to meet the development’s high specification requirements. The properties were economically designed with underfloor heating, air source heat pumps, and a high level of insulation to keep running costs down.The BenefitsIncluding the latest interior finishes, each home also offers something different, from cinema rooms to beautifully landscaped terraces.

Stirling E-Walk Cycle Live is a groundbreaking urban development initiative committed to advancing sustainability and liveability through the incorporation of green infrastructure. Located in the heart of Stirling, this mixed-use development aims to promote sustainable mobility, enhance green spaces, and cultivate a sense of community.

Delivering where suppliers before them had been unable to, Abode is supplying the versatile R15 Matrix stainless steel sink, coupled with Pico and Althia brassware to Avant Homes developments until at least July 2021. With ongoing and planned developments on over 50 sites, all of which will feature design-led Abode kitchen solutions. An ideal solution for creating a high-end and minimal look, the design of the Matrix R15 stainless sink means it can be installed into any surface, including laminate, enabling the developer to create an undermount look without the expense of solid surface.

The purpose of this development is making the re-cladding of an existing building removing Aluminium Composite Material insulation and cement particle board and replacement with new 3mm aluminium cladding and associated works. The new building will include a mixed tenure unit of 138 one, two and three bed apartments. It’s design was developed by the PRP Architects. Its design was developed by the PRP Architects. In order to protect the façade building from moisture, driving rain and wind the solution Effisus A2 Fire Rated Breather FR System was applied, using an A1 Fire Rated Breather FR Membrane.

Gradus supplied stair edgings, barrier matting and carpet to the New Look Support Centre at the Weymouth Gateway development. Committed to retaining its local presence and historic links with Weymouth, fashion retailer New Look underwent regeneration of its Mercery Road site as part of the Weymouth Gateway development. The purpose built New Look Support Centre is a modern three-storey building located at the entrance to the development. The finished look is one of clean modern elevations, substantially glazed to maximise the use of natural light and make the most of the spectacular view from upper levels.

Beechview Drive is a development by MD Constructions Ltd consisting of 8 brand new, luxury detached family houses set in a secure gated development. Each comprising 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, stunning kitchen diners and integral double garages. Licata Building Systems supplied full silicone render systems and clay brick slips systems for the facades of the houses. The combination of the two finishes created a modern style to the development. Full Licata waterproofing systems were used in the bathrooms of the properties and were also finished of with high quality premium Italian porcelain tiles supplied by Licata.

Mixed-use development created from a redundant gasworks site turning it into a high profile quarter in London.In the vibrant heart of Fulham, a groundbreaking mixed-use development has revitalized a once-redundant gas works site, giving rise to a high-quality urban quarter. This ambitious project boasts nearly 2000 new homes distributed across 15 buildings, reaching heights of up to 37 storeys. Beyond residences, the development incorporates a variety of complimentary uses, fostering a dynamic and inclusive urban community.Our involvement in the Fulham Gasworks redevelopment focused on a key aspect of functionality and safety within the expansive development—supplying and fitting metal riser doors. With safety and aesthetics at the forefront, these fire-rated doors seamlessly integrate into the architectural landscape, ensuring compliance with the highest standards.The challenge lay in harmonizing essential utility elements with the aesthetic vision of the redevelopment. Our team provided bespoke metal riser doors strategically positioned within the development. Crafted for both durability and fire resistance, these doors serve a dual purpose: ensuring safety compliance and contributing to the overall modern and sophisticated atmosphere of Fulham Gasworks.The metal riser doors, meticulously selected for their fire-rated properties, play a vital role in the safety infrastructure of the development. Beyond their functional significance, these doors seamlessly blend into the architectural tapestry, adding an element of sleek modernity to the urban quarter. The result is a harmonious integration of safety measures without compromising on the aesthetic vision of the Fulham Gasworks redevelopment.At the heart of the masterplan, a new square and urban park have been created, enhancing the setting for Grade-II listed buildings, a war memorial, and the Grade-II* listed Gasholder No. 2. The metal riser doors contribute to the overall safety and functionality of these communal spaces, ensuring that safety measures are discreetly woven into the fabric of daily life within the development.

Greenford Quay in West London is the first large-scale UK build-to-rent development for Greystar. The community-focused development offers four apartment sizes – from studio to three bedrooms - each with an effortlessly stylish décor complete with modern furnishings and fittings, including Amtico Spacia LVT flooring.

Helo’s design brief was to create two luxurious wellness rooms to overlook the swimming pool in this prestigious central London development. Both the Aroma steam and the Herb Sauna have a full glass frontage with central wide access doors. Finishes throughout are in keeping with the opulence and expectations for this high end development.

Project: Slimming World headquartersClient: Slimming WorldMain contractor: Morgan Sindall ConstructionArchitect: CPMGWith its newly extended headquarters in Alfreton, Derbyshire, weight-loss organisation Slimming World wanted to create a landmark building for the brand that would both provide an ideal working and training space for its people and deliver excellent environmental performance.Glazing plays a key role in the £8.5 million scheme, both aesthetically and in terms of its use of energy.At the heart of the building is a large atrium with a full-height glass front elevation and a glazed roof running right to the back of the space. Meanwhile, one of the wings connected by the lobby area features large ‘picture windows’ that deliver views over the facility’s attractive, leafy grounds.High-performance envelopeBecause much of the building’s envelope is glazed, the designers faced the challenge of avoiding the need for an energy-intensive climate-control system to create a comfortable environment for users all-year-round.Lee Shaw, Business Development Manager at Pilkington United Kingdom, explained: “The twin challenges any building with extensive glazing faces are loss of heat on cold days and excessive heating as result of direct sunlight when the weather is warmer.“The combination of products we have supplied to this project use advanced coatings cleverly to minimise these two effects, helping to smooth out the peaks and troughs that can lead to uncomfortable temperatures, expensive heating and air-conditioning bills and wasted energy.”The curtain walling system uses double-glazed units manufactured by Pilkington, incorporating Pilkington Suncool™ 60/31 T solar-control glass and Pilkington Optitherm™ S1 Plus, a low-emissivity product.The solar-control glass features a state-of-the-art coating that transmits only 31 per cent of the sun’s energy, while still allowing for 60 per cent light transmittance, so that occupants still get a clear view outward.The low-emissivity glass meanwhile features a coating that reduces outward radiation of heat, so that less is allowed to leave the building on colder days.Uninterrupted viewsThe same glass is used in the atrium wall and roof but is held in place using the latest structurally glazed units from Schueco. These deliver glazed surfaces with ultra-low-profile frames to minimise interruption of views from the building, as well as daylight flowing into it.Extra strength is added to the atrium glazing by including a layer of laminated glass on the inner pane, to help the large units stand up to forces exerted on them by the wind and potentially the weight of snow during the winter.Lee Shaw continued: “This project demonstrates the range of glazing solutions we are able to offer, with a combination of curtain walling, structural glazing and roof glass, all of which has been manufactured in the UK.“The architect has used timber slats to deliver some degree of solar shading, but the extensive area of glazing enclosing the space means there would still be significant risk of excessive heat build-up. The glazing specified minimises this effect, saving energy and money while also delivering a more comfortable and stable year-round climate for those using the building.“This is also one of the first projects to feature Pilkington Suncool™ 60/31 Pro T glass, which is now fully manufactured in the UK, following recent re-location of production from Germany. It’s great that we’ve been able to combine a made-in-Britain success story with a new chapter for a well-loved British business.”The completion of the building is the latest chapter in the story of Slimming World, which started when founder Margaret Miles-Bramwell OBE, then 21 years old, first began holding Slimming World groups in Alfreton in 1969. Now, 50 years later, there are 19,000 local groups across the UK and Ireland, run by a network of more than 5,500 self-employed Consultants.The new headquarters includes extensive training facilities, meeting and office spaces, as well as a brand new 550-seater restaurant for staff, guests and Consultants visiting for training.Paul James, Slimming World’s Facilities Manager, says: “People have always been at the heart of Slimming World’s success and so ensuring that our people – our head office staff and Consultants – have the facilities and environment they need to do the best job possible has been a real priority for us. The new building will ensure we have the facilities we need to train and support all of our fantastic Consultants who deliver exceptional service to our members to support them to lose weight and live healthier, happier lives.“Having large expanses of glass has provided us with a beautiful, light-filled space that will be comfortable and inviting for everyone who uses the building right through the year.”

The Dunleer Housing Development, Co. Louth, is one of six sites being developed by John Sisk and Sons using AG facing brick.The Ravel Grange development was built in a single phase and consists of 80 social houses – mainly 3 bedroom two storeys and a small number of bungalows. Woodward brick in Edenmore Smooth was chosen due to its clean crisp edges and subtle tonal range.It is part of a project spanning across 6 sites, with 1.8million bricks. Various Woodward colours and finishes were selected across the sites. Availability, consistency, and competitiveness were some of the key attributes for choosing AG.

Wey Hill is a three-story building accommodating eight apartments located in Haslemere in the borough of Waverley in Surrey. Demolition of the existing warehouse was authorised to build this 570m² development, consisting of two one bedroom and six two bedroom apartments, located 12 miles from Guildford.Cellecta’s Mojave S2-10 was specified by Landmark Estates for its high-performance underfloor heating system that offers a dry and robust floor build-up from one source.XFLO FF boards are manufactured to suit the pipe diameter and spacing required to achieve the desired thermal output.Vero Developments were awarded the contract to erect this development.

Location: LondonMain Contractor: Telford HomesThe Perfume Factory is a new mixed-use development in North Acton, London. The development will deliver 374 new homes and 1,403 sqm of commercial floor space across three residential towers comprising 12, 16 and 25 storeys, as well as public realm improvement.This development is over 18m tall, so required the OBEX CORTEX 0500FR Class B Membrane to comply with the regulations. This membrane is tested to EN13984, so also meets the required water-penetration performance standard.Towers: 3New Homes: 374Commercial Floor Space: 1403 sqm

Chelsea Creek is a mixed residential and commercial project in Central London, combining luxurious apartments with low cost housing and a stunning Spa. As a major development it has been created by award winning developer St George. AluK supplied the windows, doors, sliding doors and ground floor treatment systems throughout the project.

Mervyn Storey MLA the Social Development Minister within the Northern Ireland Assembly officially opened the new look Holywood Town Centre, post a £2.4million investment in the public realm, during December 2016. The project was funded in partnership between the Department for Social Development (DSD) and Ards & North Down Borough Council.

Metrotile is often utilised as a ‘problem solver’ material, chosen when a development needs a new roof that not only requires all of the security and aesthetics a roof should provide, but can also be installed rapidly - this is true of both new-build and refurbishment works. This lead to specification on this exciting Bristol-based office development (more at link)

After the successful completion of Shurgard’s Romford branch, Appian Construction were hired to manage the £14 million development of the UK’s largest store in Greenwich. A testament to the involvement in 8 preceding Shurgard projects, Jacksons Fencing were chosen for the manufacture, supply, and install of fencing and gates for the new development, to provide safety and security for customers and their belongings.

Weavers Quay and the Flour Building are two projects that form part of the Manchester City Council strategy managed by the Manchester Life Development company. Completed in 2019, the £28m development was designed by Buttress Architects and managed by main contractors Graham Construction. The building’s facade was completed using the Corium brick cladding system, installed by Range Roofing.

The North Block expansion (Cork Cancer Centre) at Bon Secours Hospital Cork incorporates a 12,500m2 7 storey development, including Radiotherapy, Oncology, Ward Accommodation, Critical Care and Operating theatre facilities.Forbo products were used almost exclusively throughout as the client recognised its durability over the years in the existing facility.Forbo was able to provide a wide range of flooring solutions from entrance ways and high quality, sustainable floor coverings, to hygienic and slip resistant surfaces.The Marmoleum range met the environmental, technical and maintenance requirements of the development with wide range of available colours assisting in the interior design development and way-finding design.

Pura® NFC by Trespa helps modern meet traditional in multifamily residenceIn Seattle’s sought-after Eastlake neighborhood, housing is becoming scarce. The community is sandwiched between the city’s beautiful Lake Union and main freeway, creating a popular destination with limited real estate. Recognizing the need for improved housing in this landstrapped space, Shilshole Development, LLC, undertook construction of a new multifamily residence, the Shelton Eastlake Apartment Complex. Right away the development team realized the success of their project hinged on creating an apartment complex that added both housing and character to the Eastlake community. Multifamily developments have a reputation for focusing on function, rather than form, to maximize profits.

North Acre, a magnificent five-bedroom barn conversion, commands breathtaking views over the picturesque countryside near Shaftesbury in Dorset's Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.Gowercroft products used:Peveril Lift and Slide DoorsKedleston Tilt and Turn WindowsMelbourne DoorsHardwick Casement WindowsAccoya®Vanessa and Bruce Jones, longing to build their dream home in the countryside, were thrilled when they discovered a spacious plot with an abandoned steel-framed agricultural building.The 400-square-meter south-facing structure, once a cattle shed, held immense potential for their vision of a modern, open-plan, eco-friendly family home."North Acre's location captivated us instantly. We realised that, with the right design, this industrial-looking farm building could be transformed into a light-filled, airy sanctuary for our family," shared Vanessa Jones.Uniquely Integrated DesignCampbell Jackson Architects approached the conversion with a focus on celebrating the structure's grand scale, shape, and utilitarian simplicity."Our philosophy is to create buildings that are harmonious and appropriate for their surroundings, revealing the distinctive qualities of each project. In this case, we aimed to maintain the barn's unassuming presence within the rural landscape while welcoming the stunning views into its light-filled interior spaces," explained Jamie Campbell.The original concrete hardstanding served as the footprint for the new design, with the core steel framework supporting a metal-clad roof. The use of pre-cast concrete panels at lower levels and extensive Siberian larch cladding contribute to a contemporary and understated aesthetic.Thoughtfully Framed ViewsThe south-facing elevation of the design purposefully responds to the panoramic views. Landscape Tilt and Turn windows and Lift and Slide doors from Gowercroft Joinery were carefully incorporated, allowing for perfectly framed vistas."We sought high-quality traditional timber windows and doors that would seamlessly blend with the concrete lintels and the Siberian larch cladding. Over time, the cladding will naturally weather from its original blond colour to a sun-bleached patina," shared Jamie.Gowercroft's windows and doors, renowned for their silver-grey translucent finish, were chosen for their contemporary aesthetic. The Accoya® timber's grain pattern shines through, complementing the desired tone.Throughout the project, Gowercroft supplied 22 Accoya® tilt and turn windows and four doors, all finished with their exclusive semi-transparent grey coating. These windows and doors enhance the flow between interior living spaces and offer captivating views of an exquisite indoor winter garden.The Perfect Match"We are absolutely thrilled with our new home. Campbell Jackson Architects' remarkable design has brought our original vision to life in ways beyond our imagination. The quality and beauty of the timber windows and doors from Gowercroft complete the picture," expressed Vanessa Jones.The Gowercroft team went above and beyond, ensuring that every detail, both technical and aesthetic, was meticulously considered to ensure their windows and doors were the perfect match for the new home. The specially developed micro-porous protective finish from Italy guarantees exceptional performance and virtually maintenance-free enjoyment.North Acre stands as a testament to the successful collaboration between Campbell Jackson Architects and Gowercroft, where architectural excellence and exquisite craftsmanship converge.

The newly completed 122 Waterloo Street development in the centre of Glasgow offers its occupants floor-to-ceiling glazing throughout, with almost uninterrupted views thanks to the latest Schüco curtain-walling system designed, manufactured and installed by Edinburgh-based façade specialist Charles Henshaw & Sons Ltd.But, impressively, the landmark building – which will be the Glasgow headquarters of global financial services firm Morgan Stanley – will also be one of the most energy efficient buildings in Scotland, thanks in part to high-performance glass coatings from Pilkington United Kingdom Limited.The scheme has been certified BREEAM Excellent, and achieved an ‘A’ rated Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), the latter based on a detailed assessment of the building’s energy performance. The glazing helps to minimise this by reducing energy emitted from the building, as well as the heating effect of the sun, both of which can make maintaining a comfortable interior climate more energy-intensive.A glass for all seasonsThe scale of the building and the large area of glass used means that excessive radiation of heat from the building could lead to rapid heat loss during colder conditions, requiring an increase in heating to keep the interior warm.To mitigate this effect, the glazing features a Pilkington Optitherm ™ S1 Plus low-emissivity coating which reflects radiated heat back into the building.The second issue that can affect buildings where most of the envelope is glazed is excessive heat build-up when the sun is shining directly into the interior. This can present a challenge for building managers, often requiring high levels of energy-intensive air conditioning.To combat this, a solar-control coating has been used, reducing the amount of heat energy that is able to enter the building while maintaining high levels of transparency. Michael Metcalfe, commercial sales manager at Pilkington UK, said: “The Pilkington Suncool™ 70/35 T coating selected by the design team offers high visible light transmittance, reduced solar transmittance and excellent low-emissivity all in one product.“This means the floor space will be brightly lit by sunlight but won’t suffer from overheating on warmer days.”Clear viewsThe coatings are not the only innovative part of the glazing used in the project, as the glass is held in place by the latest structurally bonded curtain wall system from manufacturer Schüco. Each unit contains a large pane of clear glass and a smaller pane of opaque, coloured spandrel glass, creating horizontal lines across the façade between each floor of the building.Michael Metcalfe continued: “The metal carrier frames in which the glass sits are extremely low profile, so the edges of the panes of glass are very close to one another. This removes the mullions normally associated with unit-based glazing systems, creating a flush glass surface with almost uninterrupted views.”The clarity of the glazing was further improved by the use of Pilkington Optiwhite™ true low-iron glazing throughout, which significantly reduces the slight green tint that is inherent in standard float glass.On the ground floor, Pilkington Optilam™ laminated glazing was used to provide protection against manual attack and increase the security of the building.Completed in December 2017, the nine-storey building also includes 155,000 sq ft of Grade A office space.Project: 122 Waterloo Street, GlasgowClient: HFD GroupArchitect: Micahel Laird ArchitectsCurtain walling supplier: SchücoInstaller: Charles Henshaw & Sons LtdImages courtesy of S G Photography

The new £8.5m Allam Diabetes Centre at Hull Royal Infirmary plans to treat and care for patients with diabetes and metabolic bone diseases.It also includes a significant amount of clinical research facilities supporting not only diabetes and endocrinology, but also vascular surgery, neurology and other research departments. Its curved towers flank a glass entrance, which leads to a large waiting area and reception. Spread over three storeys are consulting rooms, specialist treatment rooms, office space and changing rooms as well as a roof terrace on the second floor. Designed to achieve a BREEAM rating of ‘very good’, the thermal performance of the insulation specified for the Allam Diabetes Centre’s flat roof was hugely important. Another crucial factor was fire safety. Although the application doesn’t fall under current fire regulations banning combustible insulation, the architect specified that only non-combustible materials should be used during construction.  Main contractors Zenith Developments appointed specialist contractors Fosters Roofing to install the roof. They in turn tasked DANOSA UK with supplying all the materials for the roof construction, including the insulation. “The build-up of the Allam Diabetes Centre was a single-ply warm roof with a tapered insulation scheme to provide the fall required for rainwater run-off,” explained Steve Downey, Commercial Director at DANOSA UK. “Tapered insulation schemes are always more difficult than traditional flat roofs, so we asked Knauf Insulation for technical advice on how to achieve the required U-value of 0.18 W/m2K.” The Knauf Insulation Technical Support Team recommended Rocksilk® Flat Roof Slab. It is BBA certified for use on mechanically fixed flat roof build-ups and is suitable for all types of roof deck.  As well as excellent thermal performance, Rocksilk® Flat Roof Slab is non-combustible with the best possible Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification. It also provides excellent sound absorption so will help reduce the drumming effect of rainfall.  Rocksilk® Flat Roof Slab contains a special water repellent additive and is manufactured using Knauf Insulation's Krimpact® Technology which provides high levels of compressive strength and durability. As the project was a tapered insulation scheme, Rocksilk® Flat Roof Slab was manufactured to order to ensure the correct fall was created. The tapered insulation scheme wasn’t the only challenge with the Allam Diabetes Centre – it also features a curved façade, which added complexity for the installation team at Fosters Roofing.  Paul Foster, Managing Director at Fosters Roofing said: “Insulation needs to be carefully cut to the exact shape of the building otherwise heat can escape making it less energy efficient. Thankfully Rocksilk® Flat Roof Slab was easy to cut and quick to install, so it wasn’t a problem.” Rocksilk® Flat Roof Slab has also been designed to knit together during installation so there are no gaps that could affect thermal, fire or acoustic performance. By using Rocksilk® Flat Roof Slab, Fosters Roofing and DANOSA UK were able to achieve the required specification for the tapered insulation scheme on the new Allam Diabetes Centre. This will contribute to the energy efficiency needed to achieve the BREEAM ‘very good’ rating. 

A friendly and welcoming school based in Blackburn in the North West of England, St Stephens Church of England Primary School is a place where pupils can develop their skills in a school that is proud of its Christian values and high standards of teaching. The school has been praised for its philosophy of continuous improvement by a recent ofsted inspection, providing a nurturing environment for children.Continuing the high level of teaching facilities was paramount for the school, and after discovering that the gutters and parapets of the building were aged and leaking, it was vital that a solution was found before this caused issues.The ChallengeIn coordination with Polyroof Products Ltd a survey was scheduled to take place at the site to determine the exact nature of the issues and formulate a solution. Upon inspection it was discovered that the existing waterproofing consisted of a single-ply membrane which had become aged with various leaks being reported and localised repairs carried out with not much effect. The underlying build-up consisted of a galvanised steel metal deck and had been coated in plasticol. Once the survey was complete it was clear that the gutters and capping’s would benefit from a high-performance waterproofing system installation, this would protect from further leaks occurring.The SolutionThe System of choice for this project was Protec Xtraflex. Protec Xtraflex is a highly flexible version of the Protec system designed for coating gutters. Its fast curing technology and imperviousness to standing water fulfilled the rapid solution needed to offer durable waterproofing performance for this project. Taking into consideration the information obtained from the survey, a bespoke Polyroof specification was created to combat all of the issues discovered. The chosen Polyroof Approved Contractor to carry out the work on this project was the KSD Group, a contractor with a wealth of experience in the roofing and construction sector.Once all these aspects were in place, work could officially begin. Firstly, it was highlighted that falls and drainage were already present, so the Polyroof specification made use of the existing falls, combining this with the chosen waterproofing system. During this project, there was no need to strip back any of the existing waterproofing. It was made good where required, allowing a smooth substrate for the new system to be bonded to. Once this stage was complete, the area was cleaned and prepared for the new system by removing any dirt and debris. The Protec Xtraflex system was now ready for installation. Firstly, all surfaces that required it were primed, including the single ply existing waterproofing, which required a Polyroof SP Primer 202. During this installation, all lap joints and bolt heads were applied with Polyroof Butyl Tape and Polyroof Butyl Lap Tape, reinforcing these points before application. Pre-formed high-quality Polyroof drip trims were installed to the outer edge of the metal capping, and new flashings were also installed to cover the exposed insulation at this detail.The first coat of Polyroof Protec Xtraflex was applied to the substrate. This consisted of Xtraflex resin and Polymat 450 and was allowed to cure. Due to the rapid cure technology of the system, this only took 30 – 60 minutes, allowing for quick installation. Once complete, the second coat of Protec Xtraflex Resin was installed and allowed to cure.CompletionThe project was efficiently managed by both the contractor KSD Group and regular Polyroof Technical Services visits to ensure that each aspect of the project from start to finish was carried out within the client’s specification, time frame and budget. The project was a great success showing the high-quality work from KSD Group. The customer can now be confident that this new Polyroof Protec Xtraflex membrane will last for many decades to come.

Smart parcel lockers in a luxury development.

Mildren Construction Ltd were working constructing Uckfield Retail Park; 41,000 sq ft development at The Ashdown Business Park in East Sussex totalling £15m. Each unit had already been pre-let to M&S Food and Home Bargains and as part of the development, they had a requirement for a cycle shelter adjacent to the soon to be Home Bargains store.