"vapour control layer"

OverviewHerefordshire Council needed to replace the existing fresh air ventilation unit at Halo Leisure Pool. The unit was old, with several attempts made to improve the pool hall humidity and the unit’s energy efficiency over the years, however it had never worked well.RequirementRecotherm were tasked with creating a bespoke, energy efficient replacement unit. Our engineers worked on various different configurations to utilise heat recovery whilst still maintaining the existing inlet and outlet positions. Avoiding the existing unit’s method of a run-around coil system meant we were able to design and build a bespoke unit that incorporated recirculation, allowing humidity control.SolutionThe existing 20 year old unit was 8m tall, supported by a welded steel frame; utilising scaffolding and reciprocating saws we were able to remove the unit ready for the new installation.A steel table was constructed to take the weight of our new unit, which had been delivered on-site in flat pack form. The entire project took 4 weeks, resulting in an energy efficient, state of the art, swimming pool air handling unit incorporating controlled fresh air and heat recovery via a plate heat exchanger with EC speed-controlled fans.  The council will realise considerable savings on running costs, and importantly much improved conditions in the pool hall with the humidity now under control. Recotherm delivered:Engineering expertiseBespoke designEasy installation with flat pack unitsCertified installersEnergy efficiencyHumidity control

Acoustics in this spectacular courthouse is controlled using Rockfon Mono Acoustic.

The “Sky” is the limit at Leeds Dock. Matt Grest from Sky stated that, “A workspace should be considered a productivity tool, not just a box to store your staff in, and this is exactly what we’ve got at Sky at Leeds Dock.” The architectural sun control DucoSun Ellips 200 mm, supplied by Contrasol, ensure the maximum amount of diffuse daylight. “The workspace is contributing to increased productivity across my teams.”

Project to create temperature controlled enclosure in new warehouse using Flexiwall, plus enclosure created in Anchorwall mesh

A Natural Ventilation system at the newly refurbished Metallurgy and Materials building at Birmingham University.

Atria natural smoke ventilation in accordance with EN12101-2 for a retail premises.

Located in the Selly Oak area of Birmingham near the university campus, the £12.5 million building was designed by Glancy Nicholls Architects and incorporates 267 bed spaces in five different room styles including cluster en-suite, studio apartments and even a penthouse, as well as a gym and communal lounge.

Heavy rainfall on the Orkney Islands meant that the basement room of Kirkwall Air Traffic Control Tower suffered from frequent flooding, with water levels reaching 1.2m at their highest point. Newton Waterproofing and Specialist Contractor Wise Basement Systems were called in to remove the existing water and then waterproof the structure to protect it from future flooding, all in just one week.Kirkwall airport is located on the main island of the Orkneys, 10-miles off the North coast of Scotland. Presented with a logistically challenging location and a tight project timescale of just 1 week, Newton had no hesitation in recommending the expertise of Wise Basement Systems as the specialist contractor to Building Surveyor Pick Everard.Getting involved at the very start of the project, Wise were immediately able to design, advise on and install a system to remedy the 2 inches of water in the existing basement of the Air Traffic Control tower.Cavity Drain Waterproofing, or ‘Type C’ waterproofing as it is defined by BS 8102:2009 is often the most effective means of achieving a completely dry ‘Grade 3’ environment in an existing structure below ground. It was therefore no surprise that Wise Basement Systems designed a Newton CDM System for this existing basement area.To begin, Wise installed 120m2 of Newton 508 on the walls and 80m2 of the recycled Newton 520 eco to the floor, above the closed-cell Fibran XPS 500-C insulation. The drainage membranes were supplemented with a perimeter channel of Newton Basedrain, directed to a Titan-Pro sump chamber containing two NP400 Pumps to remove the water.Finally, to ensure that the system will continue to work in all eventualities, even in a complete power outage, Wise installed a backup system with dual Northstar batteries and a Victron Power Inverter.Even with a project located 10 miles from the mainland, and 1 week to waterproof a basement with only a 600mm wide access hatch, Wise Basement Systems delivered a completely dry space for the client that was also compliant with BS 8102:2009 and backed by their guarantee.

The eight storey building Faraday House in London is clad in hand-finished copper alloy, reflecting warm light into the spaces around it. But uncontrolled and excessive sunlight can seriously disrupt the experience of comfort. For this reason, the architect opted for structural solar shading. The DucoSlide panels ensure a drop in the average indoor temperature of up to 12% to combat overheating.The Faraday House in London is a  building with imagination; offering a dazzling composition from the Victorian Railway Bridge. The apartments are part of Circus West Village, the first phase of the Battersea Power Station redevelopment.Full height windows frame views of the River Thames and landscaped courtyard, enhancing the feeling of space and light, whilst private terrace balconies and roof-top gardens provide outdoor space.The eight storey building is clad in hand-finished copper alloy, reflecting warm light into the spaces around it. But uncontrolled and excessive sunlight can seriously disrupt the experience of comfort. For this reason, the architect opted for structural solar shading. The DucoSlide panels ensure a drop in the average indoor temperature of up to 12% to combat overheating. The perforated screens animate the façade and provide home owners with additional solar and acoustic control.The result? A better quality of life for residents and a striking composition for visitors as they travel into London Victoria station.

Project overviewOne Albert Quay in Cork, Ireland is Johnson Controls’  global headquarters. A new construction on previously derelict ground, it is designed to demonstrate the full range of possibilities smart, connected Internet of Things (IoT) technology can offer across the security, fire prevention, HVAC, building management and facilities management spectrum. Innovative, integrated technologies, which govern everything from security of access systems to the menu of the in-house restaurant, are deployed across the building’s 170,000 square feet. Making the most of the available data, the IoT systems work in conjunction with each other to provide employees and building visitors with improved health and safety, streamlined building access and real-time updates on key matters including local traffic, parking spaces, lunch menus and room bookings. One Albert Quay points to a smarter future in which connected devices and data gathering will revolutionise routine tasks and provide helpful efficiencies and services. The Grade A building has also brought new opportunity and investment to the city of Cork. Johnson Controls is on track to build a 500-person workforce and One Albert Quay also plays host to a number of major international companies including PWC, Investec, Arup Engineering, Malware Bytes and Hortonworks helping to boost Cork centre’s reputation as an international business hub. Designed to Gold LEED standard, the building is widely known for embracing new technology to benefit its occupants and the environment. Product and services applications Highest level of building solutions and services:Victor platform: including fire, CCTV and access controlFire: Tyco Zettler ProfileCameras: Tyco - American DynamicsBuilding management system: JohnsonControls MetasysHVAC: HitachiLifts: SchindlerAccess control: Tyco CEM Systems AC2000Fire suppressionPA and VAOpenBlue: Effective space utilisation, minimised energy consumption and optimised equipment performanceHighest level of building integration with:External temperature and humidityAmbient noiseGases: CO, CO2, NO2, O3ParticulatesWind speed and directionRainfall Customer needsThe designers of One Albert Quay aimed to make the building as sustainable and energy efficient as possible. This would include the implementation at construction level of energy saving insulation, rainwater collection, automatic power use management and sustainably-sourced building materials. Almost a fifth (18 per cent) of total UK carbon emissions come from non-domestic buildings. One Albert Quay needed to send a message that office buildings can be a part of the solution rather than the problem.Once constructed, the building needed to incorporate IoT systems to process and connect data from access management, CCTV, lifts, room reservations and traffic movement, in order to improve facility management and security capabilities. It was also essential to ensure that data was stored securely to avoid the danger of an information breach.  OpenBlue technology deliver optimised space utilisation through data insights from the building, energy audit and advisory brings recommendations and through measurement, monitoring and evaluation demonstrates progress towards carbon emissions and net zero goals. The designers also aimed to provide the best possible employee experience for those working in the building. This would include installing IoT-based information-gathering capabilities to monitor employee transport methods, parking, progress through the building, restaurant purchases and energy use.Finally, these systems had to drive a real-time update service providing employees with information on every aspect of the building and the immediate surrounding area. This in turn would help them plan their day and maximise resources - for example, by helping them avoid arriving at the building’s car park when it is already full.Johnson Controls solutionJohnson Controls delivered Ireland’s smartest building in a rapid 16 months from breaking ground to completion.“When we decided to develop Ireland’s smartest building, Johnson Controls was the obvious partner,” commented Martin O’Brien, project manager at John Cleary Developers Group. “Johnson Controls’ unrivalled expertise in fire and security, along with their new breed of connected systems and IoT platforms, meant that our building was both future proof and a pioneer in integrated systems. Our tenants, a mixture of tech and financial companies, all feel like One Albert Quay is a perfect fit for their business needs.”“As one of the world’s leading engineering and design consultancies, Arup aims to shape a better world. Choosing to locate our office in Cork at One Albert Quay, the smartest building in Ireland, created the opportunity for us to be part of an exemplar development,” Liam Luddy, director Arup Engineering. “At One Albert Quay we have a smart and energy efficient environment. This enables our staff to deliver to their full potential while realising their individual ambitions as we deliver innovative and creative solutions for our clients.”One Albert Quay is highly energy efficient, and was certified Gold under the US Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) scheme. The accreditation dictates that at least a 36 per cent saving must be achieved in energy-related operating costs across the building. To reach this target, Johnson Controls installed rainwater harvesting and treatment facilities, highly efficient solar-reflective external glazing, LED lighting with lux-level sensors throughout and solar thermal collectors to pump natural heat into the building. The development also has a glazed central atrium which brings light into the centre of the building, reducing the need for artificial lighting. Internally, the building’s advanced integration of a wide range of Johnson Controls and Johnson Controls IoT solutions means that access management, CCTV, lifts, room booking and payment systems are all linked to one another, giving managers a single comprehensive view over the whole facility.As an example, when someone enters the building, the AC2000 Linux-based access management system identifies which floor they are booked to visit and, in tandem with Schindler’s smart lifts, directs them to the lift which will get there first, saving on time and energy. Once arrived at that floor, the system will only let them into meeting rooms for which they have been pre-approved, reducing the risk of information breaches. The car park also has number plate recognition technology installed to ensure that only employees or registered guests can gain access.The building’s stairways, corridors and wider floors also have capabilities to provide information on employee health and flow through the building to help inform items such as restaurant meals based on accumulative activity levels. The restaurant operates a cashless system, providing transaction data to aid in development of menu options. In addition, these information discovery practices allow management to ensure evacuation procedures are safe and effective and improve the use of office space throughout the building. This has helped boost flexible working habits, as employees can now be pre-warned when their floor is particularly busy, and helped to find desk space elsewhere. All the information collected is anonymised before processing and storage to ensure the highest level of security and privacy, and employees can choose to opt-in to specific programmes involving data collection for research and development purposes. The system’s integrated, unified architecture points to the future of office block management, when central intelligence will manage all companies in the building from one dashboard. However, tenants’ systems are kept segregated behind separate firewalls to ensure internal privacy.‘We’re extremely proud of the way in which the One Albert Quay development demonstrates the impact of integrated, connected technology for security and facilities management,’ said Donal Sullivan, vice president and general manager at Johnson Controls. ‘We believe that this is not only an exciting development for Tyco, providing an advanced global headquarters from which to manage the company’s recent merger with Johnson Controls, but also for businesses at large looking forward to the future of working environments. By integrating access, fire and security systems with innovative new data-gathering techniques and site management tools, businesses can massively reduce their administration costs, save on energy and improve employee experience. Connected technology is here to stay, and as One Albert Quay proves, it is the key to a highly efficient and stimulating business environment.’

The Northern School of Art’s new Middlesborough campus is a development of regional importance, a major focal point for innovation and creativity in the Tees Valley.Located on a town centre site, the £14.5m iconic scheme comprises over 5,000m2 set over three floors, providing a range of studios for fine art, textiles, fashion, digital media, photography and 3D product design. Its concrete structure with exposed thermal mass, moderates the internal temperatures.Seven Architecture were responsible for the concept and master plan at the new school. Seven Director Simon Parker said, “To ensure a distinct and striking design for this gateway scheme we have introduced glazed terracotta panels to envelope the building which reference the long tradition of ceramics courses provided by the School. They also allow for glimpses into the building via long vertical windows which provide great levels of daylight within the art studios.“Once inside, internal finishes will provide the perfect backdrop for creativity; an exposed concrete frame and polished concrete flooring, coupled with splashes of colour throughout, will create a simple and robust yet flexible space for the students. The design strategy has been carefully established through extensive user consultation and the collaborative nature of this design has created a true flagship building.” Design, build and installation working hand-in-handBAM Construction were design lead and main contractor for the Project. Bill Mordue Interiors carried out the installation of the acoustic systems at the school. Jon Day of the firm, “We were very pleased to be involved with this prestigeous and innovative development. The work progressed smoothly with support from the Rockfon team as and when required. It offered Rockfon the opportunity to demonstrate how versatile their ranges are and how successfully they could control sound within this busy multifaceted setting.”In addition to the various studios and offices housed within the building, Rockfon acoustic systems really earn their place in the workshops, canteen, library, lecture rooms, busy thoroughfares and entrance hall where the pressures of controlling and containing sound in each space offer their own unique challenges. Challenges Rockfon is happy to meet, as independent research shows stress levels are reduced by 27% and focus is increased by 48% by improved acoustics.Performance, versatilty and beautyRockfon’s Jim Lundy, “Across all three floors throughout the school a mixture of Rockfon Universal Baffles, Rockfon® System Eclipse Islands™ and Chicago Metallic™ Infinity® Islands were installed in a variety of larger rectangular formats, sometimes alongside slimmer shapes, to work with the services already installed around and above them. In some instance, lighting and air conditioning are fixed within the panels, demonstrating their versatility. Rockfon Blanka® Activity B wall panels were also used within certain spaces to further control sound and help create the perfect environment for students to study, create, collaborate and socialise productively.”Ideal for thermal mass areas or where easy access to services is required, Rockfon® Universal™ Baffles offer an elegant and innovative acoustic solution. They have a smooth, easy clean fleece surface encased with corrosion resistant powder coated steel in two formats – two end-capped or four fully framed edge, and feature a multi-functional clip assembly which enables several installation and suspension possibilities. Delivering up to 77% light reflectance and diffusion, they are available in white or a selection of colours.The benefits of acoustic systems – seen and unseenThe high light reflectance offered across all our systems optimises natural light, aiding wellbeing and helping provide the best working conditions whilst minimising energy usage and costs. Vitally they all also demonstrate superior reaction to fire due in large part to the inert volcanic rock (stone wool) which forms their core. This stone wool also means Rockfon systems offer no sustenance to organisms which can lead to the growth of bacteria seen in some other ceiling systems.Rockfon Eclipse can be used as ceiling islands and as wall panels. Eclipse can be specified in a variety of shaped formats with a clean minimalistic A-edge and almost unlimited custom colour matching. Quick and easy to install, ceiling islands can be suspended by elegant wires, rods or fixed directly to the soffit.Seven Architecture Associate Architect Dean Murphy, “We felt Rockfon had a clean robust minimalistic design approach for both the suspended baffles & islands which clearly complemented the simplicity of our building design. Rockfon product ranges worked seamlessly alongside our design ideals for this building and worked well with our budget restraints.”The Rockfon Blanka range is available with semi-concealed and visible grid options for use as a suspended ceiling or as wall panels, offering a wide choice of alternatives for installation and usage. All embody Class A sound absorption (aw 1.00), 87% light reflection and >99% light diffusion and room to room sound Insulation 26dB-46dB. Blanka’s easy clean, anti-static surface prolongs product life and is non-directional, speeding up installation, saving time and money.Dr Martin Raby, The Northern School of Art’s Principal, “The increased visibility and accessibility of the School will generate benefits for the region and town, attracting more students and footfall. In turn, this will bring significant economic benefit for the area and help to redefine the image of the Tees Valley for inward investors, students, and visitors.”

Passive Purple used here on timber frame as a waterproof airtight liquid vapour control membrane

Constructed to Audi’s ‘Terminal Concept’ dealership template, originally designed by Allmann, Sattler, Wappner Architekten GmbH, the extensive new showroom and workshop complex replaces Sytner’s previous facility, which it had occupied since 2007.

Natural smoke and environmental ventilation as part of an energy efficient building strategy.

Facade automation for replacement air intake and smoke extraction in accordance with EN 12101-2

We were approached to design & manufacture a range of steel fire-resistant riser doors and personnel doors for Europe's most advanced data centre, located in Canary Wharf, London.This 8-storey building offers 73,400 sqm of space - they needed simple yet secure riser doors to provide fire protection to the internal ducts, containing all the cabling and plumbing required in a sleek, discreet solution that provided maximum access, performance and safety.Alongside the riser doors, Eurobond designed & manufactured personnel doors that could be electronically controlled to control the access and provide an audit trail of personnel movement.The 2 key elements of this project were the riser doors - and the sheer volume required to cover the 8 levels and the access control requirements that had to be well planned and coordinated by Eurobond, the security contractor, end-user and architect.

As a specialist in the automation of access control, Automatic Systems is well aware of the issues faced, especially in the light of recent events, and can offer tailored solutions that not only meet student and staff security needs but also the health and wellbeing of all.

This Awkward Passivhaus design barrel roof made airtight with ease with Spray applied Airtight vapour control membrane Passive Purple

Discover the transformative impact of innovative ventilation and sun control systems tailored for commercial spaces. In the bustling landscape of Spitalfields Market, the quest for optimal indoor climate management led to a collaboration with DUCO for their groundbreaking continuous louvre wall system and architectural sun protection system.Efficiency redefined for dynamic environmentsThe installation of DucoWall Classic 45 HP continuous louvre walls at Spitalfields Market highlights the significance of intensive ventilation. Engineered to offer unparalleled efficiency, this system excels in facilitating substantial airflow while minimising resistance. It's a solution that ingeniously maximises air movement within confined spaces, ensuring a fresh and invigorating environment.Explore our continuous louvre wallsPromoting healthier indoor air qualityIn crowded commercial settings like Spitalfields Market, maintaining a healthy indoor climate becomes paramount. Tom Revitt, UK & I Sales Manager at DUCO, underscores the critical role of ventilation in such spaces:“The DucoWall Classic W 45HP continuous louvre wall stands out not only for its exceptional airflow but also for its sleek and aesthetically pleasing design. It's a seamless integration of form and function, specifically tailored for ventilation to large plant areas that demand both efficiency and visual appeal.”Revolutionising intensive ventilation with DucoGrille Classic F 45 HPAs a pioneering system tailored for intensive ventilation, the DucoGrille Classic F 45 HP marks a significant stride in optimal air movement solutions. Its design, specifically engineered for spaces demanding high airflow rates, ensures an unparalleled level of performance.Tony Colborn, Director Conttego building façade solution provider:"At Spitalfields market, the DucoGrille Classic F 45 HP is installed above glazed window lines for extraction of contaminated air and odours at food vendors. With an exceptionally low resistance factor, this system redefines efficiency by maximising airflow while minimizing energy consumption. Its installation at Spitalfields Market demonstrates its capability to create a controlled, refreshing indoor environment by efficiently purging stale air and introducing fresh air, essential for occupant comfort and well-being.”Discover our intensive ventilation gamutSymbiosis between shielding and sun protectionDucoSun Ellips emerges as an ideal solution to screen off areas, as is the case at Spitalfields Market. Tony Colborn continues: “At Spitalfields, this system is used as privacy screening to screen the park at the side of the building looking directly into the windows of the offices above the retail areas.” The integration of DucoSun Ellips underscores not just technological advancement but a meticulous balance between functionality and architectural finesse, that shields unwanted glances from outside while harmonising with the building's design ethos. But the product has a third asset. For it also ensures that large areas of glass are protected from direct sunlight, ensuring a pleasant indoor climate for everyone."Explore our architectural solar shading gamutTransforming commercial spaces with ventilation excellenceIn a landscape where ventilation and sun control solutions are paramount for comfort and well-being, DUCO's innovative products emerge as game-changers. The integration of these advanced ventilation and sun control systems at Spitalfields market underscores their ability to redefine the standards of indoor climate control, promising a refreshing, invigorating experience for both occupants and visitors alike.A testimonial of excellent functional and aesthetic valuesThe project proceeded seamlessly, culminating in the Main Contractor's satisfaction with the final outcomes. Overall, this project stands as an exemplary reference, showcasing functional and aesthetic excellence.

DUCO contributes with sun protection to the £78m project for The University of Manchester. The architectural sun control DucoSun Ellips 200 mm, supplied by Contrasol, was chosen for the Fallowfield campus. The solar shading is so much more than decoration.About the Fallowfield CampusThe Fallowfield is a student accommodation with 8 multi-storey blocks including a Warden’s flat and Energy Centre, amenity hub, landscaping and external works. Each residence will have 10 bedrooms per floor with ensuite bathroom pods and a shared kitchen. 1,122 student rooms are spread over the blocks with a combined floor area of 32,020m2. The Fallowfield Campus is the main residential campus of the University of Manchester. It’s a vibrant place where thousands of students live alongside residents – creating e a real sense of community. The mix of shops, cafes, bars and a frequent bus service to and from the city centre makes it an ideal location to live.Construction detailsThe blocks are constructed using pre-fabricated lightweight steel framing system panels which provide structure to the building when used along with composite concrete floors. External materials are predominantly buff brickwork with feature elevations picked out in charcoal fibre cement slate roofing and cladding. Study bedrooms incorporate built-in storage and furnishings and a high specification pre-fabricated GRP en-suite shower pod.  Solar shading is much more than decorationThe vertical solar shading system DucoSun Ellips was chosen for this project and supplied by Contrasol. This solar shading system, in which a blade with of 200 mm was chosen, guarantees not only maximum daylight, thanks to the optimal inclination angle and number of louvre blades. At the same time, DucoSun Ellips 200 ensures that the sun’s rays do not get a chance to heat up the Fallowfield interior spaces directly. The vertically installed solar shading system offers maximum privacy while maintaining the view outside.

Cambridge University, Department of Civil EngineeringBauderBLUE STORMcell with BauderSOLAR G LightSynopsisThis new build project in the centre of Cambridge combines a Sustainable urban Drainage Solution (SuDS) with vegetation and renewable energy in a warm roof construction.The client for the Department of Civil Engineering at Cambridge University, R H Partnership, identified sustainability as being a key driver in the design of the roof, but also sought a single source supplier that could provide a guarantee for both workmanship and products. Bauder’s systems range encompasses products to meet all the sustainability objectives, and with our network of approved contractors carrying out the installation, we could offer the comprehensive guarantee that was required.Bauder Building BoardProject:Cambridge University Department of Engineering​Location:CambridgeRoof Area:1610m²Client:University of CambridgeSpecifier:RH Partnership ArchitectsMain Contractor:SDC LimitedApproved Contractor:Voland LimitedThe specificationTo meet the sustainability criteria set out by the client, the Bauder technical team designed a roof system combining an extensive blue roof, a green roof and a solar PV array. The first and most fundamental element of the roof system though is the waterproofing. Bauder Total Green Roof System (BTGRS) was selected as it provides robust and durable waterproofing with a life span in excess of 35 years, as validated by BBA Certificate 10/4744. The Plant E cap sheet has also been tested by the FLL to ensure long term root-resistance, making it ideal for use in conjunction with the BauderSOLAR G LIGHT system. The BauderSOLAR G LIGHT system is a unique way to combine rooftop vegetation with renewable solar energy. The PV panel mounting boards are held in position using the growing medium as ballast, meaning the waterproofing is not penetrated and therefore compromised. The mounting boards incorporate a water retention feature which allows a small amount of excess rainwater to be stored for short periods of time for the various plant species to feed from. The BauderSOLAR G LIGHT system’s unique mounting system lifts the panels above the vegetation allowing the plant life to grow freely and therefore qualify a greater area of the roof as biodiverse.In addition to the BauderSOLAR G LIGHT system, a blue roof was added to the build-up. Blue roofs are sustainable drainage solutions designed to manage stormwater on a flat roof to reduce water runoff rates and ease flash flooding and standing water in built up areas. The BauderBLUE Roof System attenuates water from a flat roof over a 24-hour period via a restrictive flow outlet. Calculations are carried out to determine the rate at which the water should egress the rooftop. This is determined by the local planning authority and is often set as low as 5-8 litres per second per hectare. With these calculations, Bauder can design each flow restrictorto meet the necessary runoff rate. For the Department of Civil Engineering, the main roof area of 1455.5m² required two flow restrictors, each with flow control holes to ensure the specified discharge rate of 0.77 litres per second was achieved. The maximum depth of water the roof is designed for is the H-max. When the water level reaches H-max, it will drain via the emergency overflow pipe. These overflow pipes are set at the same height as the H-max level. On this project the H-max was calculated to be 99mm. Although an unlikely scenario, this provision for a ‘once-in-a-hundred-years’ storm event will ensure that the structural integrity of the building is always preserved.Project challengesThe roof deck was constructed using a pretensioned concrete plank roof structure. Due to the large span of these planks, the dead load weight to the roof would be restricted. This being a blue roof with green landscaping and PV (a reasonably heavy build up), presented the issue of balancing the need of the roof design and the weight restriction of the supporting structure. To add to this challenging scenario, the pretensioned deck did not provide a completely flat finish. When installing a blue roof, a flat deck with no positive or negative falls is essential, as detailed in the 2018 update of BS 6229 – Flat roofs with continuously supported flexible waterproof coverings. To overcome this onsite challenge,the final deflection of the fully loaded roof was calculated and the concrete deck was screeded to give a flat finish.The resultBauder believes this project to be one of the first of its type in the UK to bring together so many rooftop systems in one space. Project management and clear communication was paramount in order to ensure a smooth installation. The Bauder project team consisted of green roof and solar PV product managers, area technical manager, technical design team, site technicians and approved installers for the waterproofing.With all the different elements being installed, green roof and solar PV product managers worked with our technical team to design the best possible PV array configuration for optimum energy generation whilst also qualifying for the maximum biodiverse area.Bauder site technicians worked closely with Bauder approved contractors, Voland Asphalte Ltd, to ensure works were kept to schedule and that a high quality of workmanship was maintained throughout.To ensure the landscaping is maintained, irrigation was installed by Access Irrigation Ltd. The system, Permadrip Pro, is a drip line irrigation system with anti-syphon design to resist clogging and pressure regulation. Due to the specialist nature of the irrigation system, Access Irrigation Ltd provided a bespoke design service.The result of this network of expertise was a multi-faceted support service for the client, specifier, main contractor and roofing and PV installers. System installedBauder Total Green Roof System (BTGRS)1 BauderPLANT E 42Green, 5mm torch-on root-resistant capping sheet.2 BauderTEC KSA DUOA self-adhesive, elastomeric, bitumen underlayer. This underlayer was used to ensure thorough sealing of lap joints in low temperatures when the roof was installed.3 BauderPIR FA-TETissue-faced flatboard insulation faced on both sides with aluminium foil to provide efficient thermal output.4 Bauder Super AL-ETorch-on air & vapour control layer. Once installed on the concrete pretensioned plank deck, it can act as a temporary waterproofing layer, allowing internal works to be carried out immediately which was a huge advantage on this new build project.BauderSOLAR G LIGHTThis BauderSOLAR G LIGHT system was a key factor in the specification of the project to meet the sustainability criteria specified by the client. 40 PV units were installed on the main roof area on the Departmentof Engineering. The forecasted energy generated for this arrayin its first year is 9.91MWh with a CO2 saving of 5.242 tonnes/a. BauderBLUE SR-B flow restrictorThe BauderBLUE SR-B flow restrictor is designed to be used in conjunction with a standard Bauder bitumen blue roof vertical outlet DN70. The flow restrictor is comprised of four parts; baseplate, overflow pipe, baseplate inner and baseplate outer seal. The polyamide baseplate fits within the 70mm vertical outlet, with the EPDM outer seal creating a watertight fit. The HDPE Overflow slots into the central hole of the baseplate with an inner EPDM seal preventing any leaks. The baseplate has a number (1-12) of 10mm restrictive flow holes bespoke to the project. The flow restrictor has no moving parts, hugely reducing the need for maintenance or risk of failure.

Neath Port Talbot Borough Council contacted Frontier Pitts to upgrade an existing road blocker and tag system. The existing system had been installed for over twenty years.The Road Blockers are used to permit access for buses only, through an area where other vehicles have previously used the road as a bypass to avoid other traffic hotspots in the area.The Tag System Technology has progressed greatly in the last twenty years, and the Council were keen to upgrade the system. The same system is also installed and has been in use at Swansea University since 2018. This was to ensure vehicles from both sites could use the same tags across both access control systems.There was also an issue with vandalism in the area, so consideration had to be given to ensure the readers are installed appropriately, to avoid damage.The BenefitsVehicle can be detected at up to 10 metresUHF vehicle tags are inexpensive and easy to fit to vehiclesAvoids the need for manned gatesPrevents unauthorised vehicle accessUsing the same technology readers expanded the system enabling buses to access both sitesThe SolutionFrontier Pitts worked with Nortech Controls who recommended the uPASS Target readers. The readers have a read range of 10 metres so they could be mounted on high access control posts, to solve the problem of vandalism.Neath Port Talbot Council said: “After twenty years of maintenance and support, our local traffic control system needed to be upgraded. We are pleased we could work with Frontier Pitts and Nortech Controls again with the new installation.”

Data centres and server halls present unique challenges that demand a distinct approach to architectural design and infrastructure. These facilities require a delicate balance: efficient ventilation to combat heat accumulation while ensuring robust protection against intrusion and unauthorized access.Challenges faced by Data CentresHeat AccumulationThe relentless heat generated within data centres necessitates effective ventilation systems to manage and disperse this thermal load efficiently.Security and PrivacySimultaneously, the need to shield sensitive information from prying eyes and potential intruders underscores the crucial requirement for stringent security measures without compromising on airflow or functionality. Solutions to Address Data Centre Challenges 1. Natural and Intensive Ventilation To meet the specific needs of each data centre project, our range of ventilation solutions is tailored to ensure optimal airflow. By combining DUCO ventilation products, such as weather-resistant screening and louvres (DucoWall), Nightcooling (NightVent), dampers (DucoGrille Close), transfer grilles, roof turrets for discreet air vent concealment, and sound-absorbing, self-regulating window ventilation, we create bespoke high airflow systems suited to your project's requirements.Explore our high-performance products2. Acoustic Noise ControlNoise pollution management is paramount in data centres. Our DucoWall acoustic louvre walls and sound-absorbing window vents are specifically designed to minimize sound while maximizing airflow to equipment. The louvre blades are filled with non-flammable mineral wool, ensuring effective noise control.Discover our noise control solutions3. High Security LevelEnhancing security and reducing the visibility of machinery is critical. Our DUCO louvre wall screening and structural solar shading act as visible screens, maintaining natural airflow while deterring intruders. The DucoDoor seamlessly integrates with the louvred walls or screening, providing access to server halls and technical areas without drawing attention. Our patented intrusion-resistant solution increases security while shielding open plant equipment from view.Explore our security solutions4. Architectural Solar ShadingPreventing heat penetration through windows or entrances is vital in data centres. Our solar shading solutions reduce heat ingress, minimizing the need for excessive ventilation to maintain a consistent indoor temperature.Find out more about our shading solutionsResults and Impact Implementing these tailored solutions across diverse data centre projects has brought remarkable outcomes:Optimized EfficiencyBespoke ventilation systems have significantly reduced energy consumption while maintaining precise airflow control, ensuring an efficient data centre environment.Enhanced PerformanceAcoustic noise control measures have fostered a quieter and more productive workspace, maximizing equipment performance and staff focus.Improved SecurityIntegrated high-security solutions have fortified data centres against intrusions while maintaining essential airflow and functionality.Sustainability AdvancementsArchitectural solar shading has contributed to sustainability goals by minimizing heat ingress, reducing reliance on energy-intensive cooling systems. These solutions collectively exemplify our commitment to revolutionizing data centre ventilation and solar shading solutions, ensuring optimal performance, security, and sustainability.

Residential smoke ventilation via window automation, in accordance with EN 12101-2

Façade automation for failsafe natural smoke ventilation in a prestigious infrastructure project.

“It is the first time when technologies like: video analytics, flame detection based on video technology, laser detection, RGB LED displays and RGB LED wall, digital signage, IP based PAVA, IP based clocking with NTP master clock/server, Text-to-Speech technologies wereimplemented for the Romanian railway system. It is also the first integration performed at such level of complexity for a railway terminal.” Alex Vladutoiu explained. Both Fire Detection and Public Address and Voice alarm systems are EN54 compliant and they work togetherin case of an emergency situation such as fire alarm, when PAVA2 automatically plays the evacuation announcements, PACS3 unlock the doors, stops the travellators and elevators and Victor platform delivers with priority to operators the video footage from alarmed zones, andprocedures to react to the alarm in a well defined scenario. 99.9% of time, all subsystems function automatically.

Hush Acoustics provided an acoustic control solution for the main exhibit at the SS Great Britain visitor attraction called ‘Brunel’s Mind’, in which visitors enter inside the head of Isambard Kingdom Brunel to see the world through his eyes.Working with Electrosonic, the technology experts ho were tasked with supplying and fitting most of the audio-visual equipment for the project, Hush Acoustics ensured any concerns around the reverberation times in this area could be effectively addressed. The solution came with Hush Wall Covering, a highly versatile product which is formed of unique non-woven high-density polyester to target mid-range frequency sound i.e. speech etc. Its used ensured that the audio presentation within this visitor feature would sound as it should.The Hush Wall Covering product used at the SS Great Britain is just 10mm thick so it utilises little space, which was perfect for the room. The product was developed as a direct result of extensive consultation with influential members of the education sector.Chris Hurst from Electrosonic was very pleased with the results of the wall covering and for our quick turnaround time, saying the product does “exactly what it says on the tin”.

The IQL in the International Quarter (TIQ) is London’s most dynamic and innovative business neighbourhood. A destination where people and organisations come together to encourage creativity, promote curiosity and embrace change for good. The TIQ area covers fully occupied buildings and have glazed-in DucoWall 20V louvres installed, combining intensive ventilation with an aesthetically pleasing design.

A new terminal at the Port of Cork will provide a 360m quay enabling larger ships to berth in Ringaskiddy, accommodating current and future container shipping. Geofabrics HPS6, a needle punched nonwoven geotextile was installed by BAM as a filter preventing displacement and erosion of submarine soils.

In the heart of the vibrant student city of Sheffield lies The Gate, a modern student accommodation scheme that houses 455 students. The imposing building is situated along the busy main road bordering Sheffield Hallam University and is equipped with numerous facilities including a gym, rooftop terrace, and a cinema… The complex is truly a diamond among student residences. The installed DucoMax sound attenuating window ventilator makes a major contribution to the healthy indoor climate of the building.About The GateIn the heart of the bustling student city of Sheffield, surrounded by a number of busy roads and right next to Sheffield Hallam University, is the brand-new student accommodation - The Gate.   Numerous facilities contribute to a pleasant living environment for the 455 students who live there, including a gym, a spacious rooftop terrace with breathtaking views, a cinema room, communal kitchens and study areas.A Healthy Indoor ClimateAt The Gate, attention is not only paid to different accommodation levels for the students, but also their long term wellbeing and as part of this a healthy indoor climate is also highly valued. On average we spend 90% of our time indoors. Good ventilation ensures a healthy home and prevents health problems such as dry eyes and throat, headaches while studying, loss of concentration and stress among the students. In addition, good ventilation has been shown to improve learning performance by up to 23%. The Gate opts for a natural ventilation system in which fresh air is supplied through the facade. The DucoMax acoustic window vent not only ensures a plentiful supply of fresh outside air, but also reduces any outside noise from the city below to a maximum (up to 53 dB).Reducing noise nuisanceThe ventilation system supplies fresh air via the DucoMax acoustic window vent in the living and sleeping areas, while in humid rooms polluted air is removed. The central location of The Gate provides easy access to the vibrant city of Sheffield, but unfortunately this can cause a lot of noise nuisance too due to the busy traffic. The DucoMax was developed specifically for buildings with high levels of noise disturbance, to keep the noise out. The integral self-regulating valve also keeps the air flow constant during differing wind pressures. As a result, students are hindered as little as possible by these external factors. The combination of the various facilities with a healthy indoor climate contributes to an optimal learning and living environment for the students.

The design committee at The Highdown Hotel opted for Hafele's Dialock DT710 door terminal sets for their upgrade, designed and was supplied and maintained by Häfele. An advanced locking and identification system, Dialock uses electronic keys, terminals and programming units to allow authorised access with the option to add on keyless smart phone entry at a later date. All of the Highdown’s guestroom doors, as well as the building’s main entrance, have now been fitted with Dialock. The stainless steel handle sets gave the required contemporary touch to a traditional environment.

The Skelbrooke Ward is a psychiatric intensive care unit (PICU) at the Doncaster Adult Mental Health Unit; providing specialised care for people experiencing acute mental ill health. In early 2020, the Skelbrooke Ward underwent a major refurbishment to modernise the environment and introduce new technology to work alongside clinical practices. Patient care and recovery were at the forefront of plans for the refurbishment of the Skelbrooke Ward. Our electronic integrated override locks allow patients to move freely between rooms where access is permitted; whilst the load release en-suite doors carefully consider privacy and dignity without compromising on safety.

A new self-build farmhouse in the beautiful Scottish countryside has been fitted with the high-performing Wraptite air-barrier. The project is designed to Passivhaus standards by Architect Frances Strachan-Friar. Talla Fiodha (‘timber or wooden hall’ in Gaelic), Charleston Farm, near Errol, Perthshire, will be the new home for Frances and her husband.From the outset, the aim was to achieve a more sustainable design and follow a different approach from the traditional timber kit. After undertaking significant research into different types of construction, the architect selected Xilonor CLT cross-laminated timber installed by Glulam Solutions Ltd., Inverurie.Frances Strachan-Friar commented on how the selection of Wraptite has benefitted the development. “The specification of the correct type of airtightness barrier was critical in achieving thermal efficiency. Wraptite was chosen because it allows the airtightness layer to be fitted to the outside of the construction. In doing so, the external application of Wraptite provides essential protection in the form of waterproofing and weatherproofing for the CLT during the build.“The Wraptite system was great and easy to apply, especially around junctions, enabling us to seal all of the junctions completely. The use of a traditional membrane would not have given the same performance. I have previously specified products from the A. Proctor Group, but this was the first time using Wraptite. Proctors provided a comprehensive Toolbox Talk and have been a great support throughout the project.”The Wraptite system is the only self-adhering vapour permeable air barrier certified by the BBA. It combines the critical properties of vapour permeability and airtightness in one self-adhering membrane. As a result, it provides high vapour permeability in a continuously sealed, airtight membrane.The high vapour permeability of the Wraptite air barrier allows the substrate beneath to dry quickly and moisture vapour to escape and reduces the likelihood of mould, mildew, condensation, timber distortion and metal corrosion. The vapour permeability of Wraptite also allows any water vapour to escape efficiently, thereby avoiding interstitial condensation problems.Designed to replace traditional airtightness methods cost-effectively, Wraptite is a low-resistance vapour permeable air barrier, durable, flexible and lightweight, allowing for easy installation, with the added benefit of providing temporary protection against the elements during construction

Whitburn Partnership Centre was designed by Project Architects, Matthew Fair, Neil Forrester and Jamie Bateman at Smith Scott Mullan Associates for West Lothian Council. The design of the contemporary £4M building restores the historic Whitburn Burgh Hall original façade as it is one of the towns most renowned buildings and incorporates a new-build two-storey extension.Located in the centre of Whitburn, this building is a community hub that embraces the West Lothian Council’s model of bringing together services that benefit local communities whilst delivering financial efficiencies through the decrease of council buildings. This building facilitates a library, community halls, museum and customer information service office, making it an important community resource. Project:Whitburn Partnership CentreProject type:New buildLocation:West Lothian, Scotland,Waterproofing:Bauder Total Roof System (BTRS)Roof size: 525m2Energy generated from PV array: 10.35kWp Specifier: Smith Scott Mullan AssociatesMain Contractor: Maxi ConstructionApproved contractor: ProCladd (Scotland) LimitedSolar PV installer: Intelligent Electrical SolutionsThe specificationTo support the West Lothian Council's sustainability objectives of achieving high energy efficiency, it was our responsibility to specify a waterproofing system and provide a solution for natural energy generation. The bituminous Bauder Total Roof System (BTRS) was chosen for this project as it features membranes that can withstand impact and tearing, as well as thermal insulation that met the required U-value of 0.15 W/m²K. This waterproofing system is verified by the BBA and offers a service life in excess of 35 years.The BauderSOLAR system was also specified, as it incorporates photovoltaic arrays for natural energy generation. The photovoltaic mounting system is attached to the roof without penetration of waterproofing or the deck, safeguarding the integrity of the waterproofing to fulfil its full-service life.Project challengesThe Architect’s design incorporated unusually high parapet upstands, which posed a challenge for installers. Area technical manager for Bauder, Christopher Langton, attended design meetings with the Architects and Main Contractor to discuss the best solution for installation. A mutual agreement was made for the underlayer to be mechanically fixed to prevent any slippage of the capping sheet membrane. Due to the height of the upstand, non-combustible insulation BauderROCK was incorporated into the design at these details.The installation of BauderSOLAR F uses prefabricated bituminous BauderK5K membrane sleeves to slip over the mounting plates and welded into position, anchoring the plates to the surface of the Bauder waterproofing system. Approved BauderSOLAR installers, Intelligent Electrical Solutions, installed the BauderSOLAR system, collaborating with ProCladd, approved contractor for the waterproofing installation, and other trades during the roof installation.There is a junction where the flat roof meets the original slate roof of the adjacent building, this detail fell under the torch free zone that hot air welding techniques are used to install the membranes within these areas.The resultInstallation of the Bauder waterproofing system may only be carried out by trained and certified operatives approved by Bauder. A project pre-start meeting was held by Bauder site technician, Duncan Hastings, and area technical manager, Christopher Langton inviting the Site Manager from Procladd and their Bauder badged operatives. During this meeting, they discussed the installation of the project, and identified the areas that required torch-free and torch-safe detailing. They also discussed how the project was going to be delivered in co-ordination with other trades working on the site at the same time, for example cladding and lead that was installed atop the waterproofing upstand details.Weekly site-inspections were carried out by Bauder site technician, Duncan Hastings during the project. Visiting the site frequently meant that Duncan could provide consistent support to the installers and answer any questions they may have had directly. It also meant that the quality of the roof installation was being monitored regularly to ensure it would be to a high standard, achieving the comprehensive guarantee.The approach taken to deliver this project on time and to budget was through meticulous planning and working to tight time frames. The organisation of the delivery of Bauder products to site had to be in line with the schedule to ensure that the site was ready to receive a delivery. With the project located in the busy centre of Whitburn next to a cross junction with traffic lights. This meant that timed delivery of products to site was required in addition to prebooked off-loading by pump truck and tail lift or by telehandler.Health, safety and environment was managed during the planning, design and installation of this project by advising that all installers follow the advice shown in the “Responsible Specification Checklist” produced by the National Federation of Roofing Contractors.In accordance with the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, roof edge protection in the form of scaffolding was installed during installation. The project’s perimeters were surrounded by Heras fencing to isolate the construction site from the public. All scaffolds that were on the elevation next to the public had toe boarding and safety mesh where required.As standard, there was a one-hour Firewatch after the Bauder membranes have been installed using a gas torch. This was carried out by Procladd operatives each day when they were working on the project to ensure the welfare of the workforce, and the safety of other trades and that of the building. The 19kg gas cylinders were used on this project as they are easily transportable on the roof area. At the end of each working day, the cylinders were stored in a locked and designated gas storage unit on site.System installedBauder Total Roof System (BTRS)1 BauderK5KElastomeric bitumen torch-on capping sheet in charcoal grey. This 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 DUOA self-adhesive, elastomer bitumen underlayer. This product features distinctive technology for lap sealing.3 BauderPIR FA-TE flatboard insulationA rigid polyurethane foam board faced on both sides with aluminium foil.4 BauderTHERM DS 1 DUOA self-adhesive, elastomer bitumen air & vapour control layer.

A systematic approach of arresting and reducing the flow of water within a cavity wall prior to any change in status of that wall helps balance demands on damp protection measures. In the case of a circular window passing through a curved cavity wall, protecting against damp ingress is easily achieved using a preformed Type K cavitray. The preformed Cavitray is curved to match the wall. Conventional flat material or roll material cannot uniformly match the radius of a wall.

The Greatham Managed Realignment Scheme was part of the Environment Agencies wider " Tees tidal Flood Risk Management Strategy" which imposed a legal requirement upon the Environment Agency to deliver intertidal habitats as compensation for the impact of flood management projects. The challenge was to construct embankments comprising predominantly of site won material. THe size, scale and nature of the works dictates a tight time scale was maintained to ensure rapid return to its natural state. ABGs Erosamat Type 3 was chose, comprising 3 dimensional structure and entangled filaments. Erosamat forms a permanent composite with the natural vegetative root structure supported.