"rainwater goods roof drainage systems"

Five domed design... CHALLENGE The idea of the architect was to design a building with 5 parabolic roof surfaces or domes. The unique five domed design comprises of pods finished in a range of different materials, each contributing to the development’s remit to blend into the park landscape. The biggest issue for the architect was how to connect these different materials to become a complete watertight building. SOLUTION Each dome is waterproofed using a RENOLIT ALKORPLAN system and whilst the complex is thought to be the UK’s largest timber-built geodesic project, it also demonstrates possibly the most innovative use of single ply membrane ever seen in the UK. By using the RENOLIT ALKORPLAN membrane as the main layer to waterproof the five domes an easy joint could be made by means of hot air. On one dome our RENOLIT ALKORPLAN A membrane was used in combination with PVC profiles providing geometric aesthetic detailing. On another dome a RENOLIT ALKORPLAN L membrane was used under a green roof system. On the other domes the RENOLIT ALKORPLAN F membrane was used in combination with our RENOLIT ALKORSOLAR fixing system supporting respectively glazed aluminium sheeting and cedar shingle tiles.

In order to achieve the BREEAM rating of “Excellent”, the fourteen storey building, constructed in 2009 in London’s Bank Conservation Area, incorporated several sustainable features, including our rope and rod Green Wall System. To create the ideal habitat for wildlife, the green wall design included bat boxes; providing a safe place for bats in the city.Green walls can be used in cities to help improve the local air quality by trapping dust and pollutants; in addition to absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Green walls can also be used as an effective graffiti deterrent in areas where this is an issue, as green walls make the application of graffiti to structures near impossible, and this is just one of many benefits of green walls. Additionally, the green wall is helping to provide cleaner air in the urban environment – and looks great!

The new build development contained 17 dwellings for social rent, consisting of four one-bedroom flats, nine two-bedroom flats and four three-bedroom flats. The new development is located within an urban densely populated area of London. The 97 windows manufactured and supplied were predominately Optima Flush Tilt and Turn Windows from Profile 22 along with a small number of Optima open-out casement windows too. Optima from Profile 22 is the UK’s leading award-winning commercial window system. Profile 22 Optima Windows deliver the high-quality specifications required.

Superb development with inset balconies and beautiful roof terraces.This prestige development by the riverside in Manchester used the MyDek Vista board on our standard box rail and cleat support system. Renaker and their subcontractor were a pleasure to work with and were keen to ensure that they delivered a first class product and installation to complement the quality of the development.

Product:1no. Bespoke Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy: 74.26m x 3m – 3.5m2no. Standard Coniston Wall Mounted Canopies: 8m x 2.1m and 8.9m x 2.1mCanopy Frame Colour: Light Blue RAL 5012, matt finishInstallation Date: August - September 2019Contractor: Morgan SindallArchitect: Miller Bourne ArchitectsThe BriefIn September 2018, an invitation to tender was received by Able Canopies from Morgan Sindall Construction Ltd for a number of canopies at the brand new two-storey, primary and nursery school for which they had been awarded the contract to build to form part of the Hailsham Community College Academy Trust.After reviewing the tender documents we put our recommended products forward, which was a large Kensington wall mounted canopy and two Coniston wall mounted canopies.The architect then contacted us directly to detail that the main building frame was made up of large timber SIPS panels and the large steel posts were required to support the roof. However, they were also decorative in essence and played a significant part in the building aesthetic appeal, and they required Able Canopies to supply and install them as part of the package as they would run through the larger canopy.The original design and price we submitted did not require the inclusion of the steel posts, however we were then asked to include in our canpy costs. We therefore went back to the drawing board to come up with a canopy design which would fit the aesthetic and structural features required.The SolutionWhilst in talks with the architect, they explained that they favoured our Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy system and also requested the NBS spec for the product which wasn’t a problem as our products are all listed on the NBS National BIM Library.We therefore looked at the Coniston system and worked with the structural engineer to ensure the steel beams could be incorporated into the canopy. This enabled us to supply the contractor and architect with an estimate so we could secure the works as an early package enabling them to cast the foundations required within the main slab.Because the bespoke Coniston would have the required large steel beams through the roof, we designed a solution to ensure the canopy would still be a fully waterproof system. This was easily achieved with the Coniston because we were able to comfortably flash/dress around the roof support columns, to create a seamless walkway with a watertight roof.However, the large steel beams and underside required a lot of design work, we diligently designed bespoke connections for the posts to the beams, bespoke connections for the roof bar to the steel beams and bespoke guttering & gutter connections. This replaced the Coniston’s standard integral guttering system with an external gutter system that worked with the design perfectly.Click the link to continue reading..... https://www.ablecanopies.co.uk/c/wall-mounted-canopy-case-studies/hailsham-community-college-primary-academy-case-study.html

The ProjectsThe Northern Health and Social Care Trust and The Southern Health and Social Care Trust are two of the largest healthcare associations in Northern Ireland. Between them, they provide services to over 850,000 people. Among the facilities under the Northern Trust’s control is Causeway Hospital in Coleraine. The Southern Trust has Craigavon Area Hospital as one of its major healthcare sites.H&J Martin was established in 1840. For well over a century and a half it has been delivering the highest level of quality work in every aspect of construction and fit outs. For this reason, the company was chosen to oversee and facilitate the work on these prestigious hospitals.The hospitals needed new flooring to be installed throughout the buildings. The floorcovering would need to be made from a resilient material such as vinyl, making it easy to maintain high standards of hygiene using industrial cleaning machinery. The flooring would also need to be supported at the floor-to-wall junctions and around corners, to prevent flooring failure or collapse and to protect against the heavy-duty cleaning equipment.The ApproachH&J Martin decided to use Quantum Flooring’s CCFM1 internal and CCFM2 external floormitres to help protect the flooring around corners in the hospitals. Vinyl or other resilient floorcoverings can be particularly vulnerable where the flooring meets the wall at corners, as it can be difficult to mitre the angles correctly. These floormitres help to create a uniform finish every time, leading to greater structural integrity along with improved aesthetic results.Quantum’s QCF35 cove former was utilised to complement the CCFM1 and CCFM2. This profile fits perfectly with the curve of the floormitres, helping to create a flush and hygienic finish every time, at each floor-to-wall junction and around corners. The coving and the floormitres protect the floorcovering from damage at the join, and make the flooring easier to clean. For wet rooms, the vinyl can be fitted all the way up the wall where the floormitres can also be used in the wall-to-roof corners.The UCS3 slimline flexible capping strip was used to create neat finishes to the floorcovering up the walls of the hospitals. The UCS3 profile is specifically designed for healthcare environments. It has a slimline cap, reducing the accumulation of dirt and dust over time, and providing a smaller surface area to be cleaned than traditional capping strips. UCS3 is available in 25 metre coils making the packaging compact and the product easy to fit.The OutcomesCauseway Hospital and Craigavon Area Hospital were fitted with over 2,000 metres of floormitres, cove formers, and capping strips between July 2022 and July 2023. Sean O’Reilly, the Flooring Supervisor for H&J Martin, says: “As you can see from the finish, high quality work was made easier with floormitres.”The profiles used have been expertly fitted by H&J Martin employees, resulting in great looking and hygienic installations for both hospitals. The floormitres, coving, and capping strips will be protecting the floorcovering for many years to come, and helping to keep the facilities safe and clean for both patients and healthcare professionals.The Northern Trust and the Southern Trust can rest assured that H&J Martin’s professional work with Quantum Flooring’s excellent product range will help them to continue providing their vital services to the people of Northern Ireland. Cutting Corners cove solutions are perfect for healthcare and pharmaceutical projects, improving the quality and standards of cap and cove, cleanroom, as well as wetroom installations.The CCFM1 Internal and CCFM2 External Floormitres are specified and fitted in countries worldwide.www.cuttingcorners.org.uk

Ampteam Limited, were asked to provide a UNIFOLD® scheme for the conversion of level gutters, serving the central roof area of the building, to falls conditions, with a brief to eliminate standing water and leaks which had plagued the building for some time.Some 900 metres of valley gutters serving four separate Atrium roof areas in banks of six, which in turn are served by 5 metre wide valley gutter sections serving as Access and escape link bridges, were requested to be converted from level to laid to falls.Lower valley gutter bounding the periphery of the roof area serve and discharge the main roof area via 5 metre wide chutes from the escape link bridges. Positioned in the less sensitive areas, these were allowed to be laid level, although their existing holding capacity has been improved.The existing roof and gutter areas had initially received a PVC membrane when built. This, however, was patched in many areas and showing signs of deterioration. There were many concerns about the continued longevity of this installation.UNIFOLD® Gutter Lining System was chosen for its versatility, unfailing ability to replicate existing systems, provide falls conditions in level gutters and its long life. The system is also guaranteed for 20 years.Tapered Cork insulation was chosen to provide the base for the gutters and this was supplied in cut sets. The fall ratio was based on a minimum of 1:150. The Unifold gutters were purpose made to suit the falls ratio and provided in numbered sets to suit the individual gutters.Full site information was provided including schemes of falls, laying sequences and special details and instructions. In all, more than 50 separate drawings were issued to site. In accordance with Ampteam policy, all fabrication was factory manufactured and sealed prior to delivery to site. This ensures complete installation quality and integrity. The valley gutters serving the central Glazed Atrium roof areas were installed first. These comprised an apex at the central position of the gutters with falls arranged down to discharge ends at the Escape Link Bridges.As the glazed Atrium roof was above a sensitive area, no weekday work was allowed.Friday deliveries were permitted but all work was conducted during weekends.The end Atrium Roof area valley gutters were single fall from a transverse gutter at the outer perimeter edge.Access into the transverse gutter was extremely tight and normal joints could not be made so sections of UNIFOLD® were supplied to span individual Atrium ends and joins were made at the junctions with the valley gutters via factory manufactured tees, using UNIFOLD® patented clip joints.The existing transverse gutters were already higher than the valley gutters to aid discharge, but in order to create the necessary falls the UNIFOLD® transverse liner was lifted sufficiently to provide the required falls for the valley gutters.There was space to achieve this condition without compromising the capacity of the original transverse gutters.

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

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

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

Headquartered in London, vXtream is a leading Private Cloud Managed Service Provider that has 7 global data centre locations. Having built up 2 years’ experience, vXtream services are relied upon by international companies, businesses of all sizes, and creative professionals. In order to protect their vast clientele’s data and hardware, a multi-layered security approach has been put in place featuring 24/7 on-site security, high-definition CCTV cameras, and biometric security approved by the NPSA (National Protective Security Authority). ChallengeDue to the ISO27001 certification that vXtream holds, they are committed to continuous improvement and risk management; therefore, a further layer of security was identified as needed for their data hall. This further layer of security had the challenge of preventing tailgating into the data hall to ensure access could be controlled and monitored. The solution would also need to integrate with vXtream new biometric system to enable fingerprint recognition entry. As well as this, the space within the data hall needed to be preserved so that further expansion could happen in the future with the data centre’s planned growth.  Solution To gather a good understanding of what vXtream challenges were, Meesons visited the site to gather a good perspective. With this, the FPJ140 2S Security Portal was proposed as a suitable solution. Since this product offers a high level of security, it helped overcome the risk of tailgating with the 2-zone pressure mat that provides a second level of verification, ensuring only one person is present in the portal at once. On top of anti-tailgating, the FPJ140 2S pressure mat is also capable of detecting hardware being removed from the secure zone. ResultsWith the FPJ140 2S Security Portal in place at vXtream, it proves as an effective security solution that prevents tailgating. It has created a secure line to the data hall and works well with the access control system that the data centre uses. With stainless steel cladding, we helped vXtream achieve a premium look that complements the surrounding environment. 

Newmarket Hospital, a cornerstone of healthcare in the United Kingdom, has revealed a remarkable transformation with the addition of a new walkway spanning a total of 99 square meters.One of the standout features of this canopy is its structure, meticulously crafted from powder-coated aluminium. This choice not only guarantees durability but also reduces the maintenance demands on Newmarket Hospital. In a healthcare setting, where patient care is paramount, this ensures that staff can concentrate on their core responsibilities without the constant worry of upkeep.The new walkway showcases the innovative Twinfix Multi-Link-Panel Non-Fragile (NF) roofing system, which incorporates polycarbonate glazing. This roofing system is not just about allowing natural light to permeate the space; it’s also about doing so while ensuring adequate weather protection.This unique roofing system utilises polycarbonate glazing, effectively diffusing sunlight, creating a well-lit and evenly illuminated space beneath the canopy. Patients, visitors, and staff can move comfortably without the discomfort of harsh sunlight or the risk of glare. The canopy also provides effective weather protection, shielding individuals from rain and creating a dry and secure passage, regardless of the weather outside.The design of this roofing system aligns perfectly with safety standards, particularly in healthcare settings, as it complies with HSE’s drop test ACR[M]001:2019, ensuring it is non-fragile and capable of withstanding potential impacts without shattering.In a healthcare environment, safety is non-negotiable. The Twinfix Multi-Link-Panel NF glazing meets rigorous safety standards, providing protection against potential breakage. This means that even in the rare event of an accidental impact, the glazing won’t shatter, minimising the risk of injury to those underneath. It’s an assurance of patient well-being, and it’s something Newmarket Hospital takes seriously.Vicky Evans, Director at Twinfix, commented on the project: “The new walkway at Newmarket Hospital is a testament to the superior quality and design expertise offered by Twinfix. This installation marries durability, aesthetics, and safety, ultimately enhancing the healthcare experience for all stakeholders. We take pride in having delivered a solution that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of Newmarket Hospital.”This project is more than just a canopy; it’s a symbol of progress and excellence, and it’s a part of the journey toward a better healthcare experience for all.”

Woolston Sixth Form College forms part of Woolston Learning Village, which also includes neighbouring schools Green Lane Special School and Fox Wood Special School. The college educates & supports students aged 16 – 19 years old who have a range of additional needs.Following the installation of a number of Twinfix canopies at Green Lane Special school over the last eight years, Twinfix were approached by Woolston College to design, manufacture and install canopies on two separate occasions over the last two years.The initial project involved fitting a twenty-five sqm canopy with vertical glazing to one of the classrooms at the site. The vertical glazing offered weather protection and an element of privacy for the students using the canopy.The College was so impressed with the process and the installed canopy that they requested a second canopy spanning thirty-two sqm a few months later.Both canopies have aluminium frames powder coated in blue RAL 5010. As this metal does not rust in use, they will keep their good looks throughout their long life. The structures comprise of Twinfix’s innovative Multi-Link-Panel Non-fragile (NF) roof glazing system fitted with tough 16mm opal multiwall polycarbonate. The NF denotes that these panels conform to the HSE’s recommended drop test ACR[M]001:2019, as recommended by HSG33.With safety of the students being paramount, protective foam pads were fitted to each supporting post to guard the children from bumps and bangs and anti-climb guttering was also included in the design for both structures.Not only do the new canopies provide additional safe space for students to play and learn, but it also enabled them to reap the benefits that come with being outdoors.

The Cambridge is a stylish and versatile shelter perfect for all buildings; capable of sheltering up to 24 bikes. In our EasyLift two-tier system extension units can be added to form a larger shelter and house more bikes. Shelter manufactured from hot dipped steel Galvanised 60 x 60 box section to BSEN ISO1461 Composite roof panel as standard – non transparent. Aluminium fixing straps BZP Fixings Angled roof BREEAM AND CODE FOR SUSTAINABLE HOMES COMPLIANT This bike shelter can help contribute towards gaining ENE8 Cycle storage credits when used in the appropriate situation, under the Code for Sustainable Homes

The patients’ garden at Homerton Hospital in Hackney has been completely transformed with a Stonebound resin bound porous paving finish to the pathways in the newly landscaped courtyard area.SURFACING REQUIREMENTSThe hospital was looking for a minimal maintenance surfacing option for the hospital garden to offer a welcoming, tranquil outside space for visitors and patients. The paving needed to be porous to minimize surface water, seamless and have good slip resistance for comfort and safety underfoot.Addagrip approved contractor D C Flooring was invited by G.K.Works to install 169 sqm of Stonebound resin bound porous surfacing in a Blizzard blend to give a cool and contemporary look to this outdoor area. The surfacing is decorative, porous, allowing access all year round and offers good slip resistance.The installation was completed in August 2021.

Many people have benefitted from Premier Inn’s guarantee of a good night’s sleep, which goes some way to explain why the Whitbread Plc hotel chain now have over 700 hotels in the UK.To help ensure that that a good night’s sleep is enjoyed by every guest, Premier Inn insist on the best soundproofing available. Chip Board Overlay was installed on the upper floor, giving a robust, high density monolithic floor with a remarkably shallow profile.The demands of the ground floor were a little more specialised. Soundis advised the main contractor, Key Property Solutions Limited, that a combination of 115mm thick XPS Insulation, together with a layer of chipboard together with a layer of chipboard would exceed the tight acoustic and heat insulation specification.

THE BRIEFOutdoor street furniture solutionsCoombe Wood School is a comprehensive, mixed secondary school for children aged between 11 and 18 in Croydon. We worked with Wates on this £30 million project to provide a range of street furniture products to complement the newly landscaped areas.We manufactured a whole host of our own range of products here. The Timber cycle shelter was created in a way that covers two runs of cycle hoops under one roof, this allows for more bikes to be covered which acts as a fantastic incentive to get kids cycling to school. WHAT WE DIDStriking central courtyard featureFor the courtyard area, Langley Design provided a large timber pergola to add a striking central structure to the outside space where the children can congregate under to socialise, play, eat and learn. Our recycled plastic plinth mounted benches were chosen due to the longevity of the material. THE RESULTLow maintenance productsThe recycled plastic requires no maintenance and will continue to look as good as new in many years to come. It will last the lifetime of the project.Both the school and contractor were so pleased with our products that they have ordered another cycle shelter due for installation later this year.

The designer obtained consent under the latest SuDS regulations in the densely build area of London. Restriction on outflow rates to sewers demanded high attenuation. The original design for stormwater attenuation involved discharging tanks under the ground. This was expensive and took up valuable space, an alternative was required. ABG proposed their Blueroof system which could be installed directly on to the hot melt waterproofing system allowing various surface finishes. Due to height limitations a cascade system was used. Various roof finishes included paved access, landscaped areas and bio diverse to attract wildlife. This increased the potential for BREEAM points.

Our year’s of experience in the Ironmongery trade has stood us in good stead, working with Ruddy Joinery and Ballymore (ECCOWorld) we were asked to produce the full Ironmongery Schedule, which included a bespoke handle suite, specifically for this project.

XXL Sport chose the Urban Shalestone tile for the recent refurbishment of their Sweden store.Client feedback is that the new floor is better for their staff to work on, less noise, easy to clean, good reflection of light and the Urban tiles are quick and easy to install.

Last year, fast food chain Burger King added forty-eight new restaurants to their rapidly growing portfolio. Twinfix were approached by Ideal Building Systems to design, manufacture & install canopies and Brise Soleils at three of the sites in Kent, Clacton-on-Sea and Swindon.With over 30 years’ experience the Twinfix Technical Team had no problems designing structures to suit the requirements and budget of the client.Twinfix’s expert team designed, manufactured, and installed a brise soleil which covered all four sides of the restaurant at the first site in Swindon and fabricated lean to mono-pitch canopies with squared posts and 3mm thick solid aluminium sheet for roof, complete with brise soleil for rear, sides and front at the restaurants in Kent and Clacton-on-Sea.The structures served two purposes, while providing shelter, they also enhanced the aesthetics of the restaurants and complemented the building’s exterior.Each canopy spans 35 square metres and the roof comprises of pressed aluminium roof at a reduced pitch to fit inside the 150 depths of our frame, concealed gutters and downpipes and prepared for soffits by another contractor. The roofs were powder coated in RAL 3020 Traffic Red and squared aluminium posts powder coated to RAL 9006 White Aluminium.The Brise Soleils are constructed from our 150 x75 rectangular hollow section and had to accommodate some wiring for lights that were installed later by another contractor. These are a striking addition to the building fascia.The design of the proposed future sites look set to follow the same format and we look forward to working with Ideal Building Systems on the upcoming projects.

Working with Williams Roofing Contractors Ltd of Eastleigh, Hampshire, the winning project involved the refurbishment of a large water treatment plant that imposed stringent environmental and performance requirements.The outstanding workmanship and attention to detail by the Polyroof approved contractor during this large scale installation allowed this project to really stand out from the crowd. The below is a case study for this LRWA award-winning project, highlighting the many challenges and how they were overcome through innovation, workmanship and product choice.The SolutionFollowing a survey of the roof area conducted by Williams Roofing and Polyroof Technical Services, a detailed report was carried out after which a bespoke specification was produced and handed to the client. This document detailed a comprehensive set of recommendations for solving the issues that had arisen due to the aged condition of the roof coverings.The client, satisfied that the solution proposed would provide the lasting peace of mind they were looking for, awarded the contract to Williams Roofing Contractors Ltd to install the Polyroof Protec System.There were many challenges on this project as this was a live ‘Clean Water’ environment site, so all Williams Roofing Contractor staff on the project had to have the EUSR National Water Hygiene Cards and be fully inducted by Southern Water’s high standards. Working within these type of environments brings additional Health & Safety implications as the National Water Hygiene scheme is in place to ensure the protection of public health and promote safe drinking water practices. Further risks had to be considered and covered including the risk of working over open water areas with additional buoyancy aids on site to reduce the risks as described under CDM regulations.Williams Roofing Contractors Ltd had to be especially vigilant providing additional protection to ensure that no potential contamination or spills caused any contaminants to the clean water processes/water courses and environment with additional spill kits on hand. Due to the varying conditions of the roof construction(s)/substrates the preparation had to be thought through thoroughly. Certain roof areas needed to be scarified which would have caused reverberations through the roof/concrete deck. This would have possibly created contaminants by spooling of concrete/debris/dust to within the MF Compound Water Lanes/Tanks.

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 Spa at South Lodge, in the heart of the West Sussex countryside, is the picture-perfect, luxury destination for those seeking ultimate relaxation in complete comfort, far away from the pressures and strains of modern life. Designed by Hove-based architectural firm, Felce and Guy, this prestigious 44,000 sq. ft building sits harmoniously in its beautiful, natural setting with external facing bricks from Vandersanden selected to provide regular form, nuanced colours and natural texture for the project. Located in Lower Beeding, near Horsham, The Spa at South Lodge is a purpose-built spa within the grounds of an award winning 5-star hotel. It features a state-of-the-art gym and spin studio, indoor pool, outdoor hydrotherapy pool and wild swimming pool, a thermal suite and treatment rooms for members, hotel residents and spa day guests. In addition, The Spa at South Lodge includes the Ridgeview Beauty Bar and Botanica, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant. Felce and Guy were commissioned to provide a full architectural design, then appointed as lead consultant and contract administrator to oversee the build carried out by main contractor, Beard Construction. The firm’s design balances the specific needs of the hotel and The Spa at South Lodge’s facilities with a sensitivity to the context of the countryside setting and close proximity to the main hotel. The resultant architecture sympathetically responds to these surroundings with the building deep-set into the landscape, minimising its scale, yet taking full advantage of the extensive views available to guests over the South Downs. As the landscape falls away, leading to natural water forms, so too does the new building with external terracing leading out to a vitality pool and down to an external swim pond. After reviewing and testing different samples in advance, Felce and Guy selected Vandersanden’s Lithium brick in a 50mm size for the project. This attractive, hand-formed facing brick comprises a sanded-coated and grained structure in a muted base grey colour with accompanying shades of buff and black to match the stonework colours of the main building at South Lodge Hotel. Over 100,000 bricks were sourced and supplied for the project by specialist brick distributor, N R Taylor of Lingfield, with the thinness of the brick helping to further reduce the visual scale of the Spa building. The horizontal lines of the brickwork act as a softening counterpoint to the vertical natural green oak cladding and large glass panelling that also feature as key elements in The Spa at South Lodge design. Elsewhere, the Lithium brick has been used in the copings, landscaping and dividing walls which create external contours and help to separate the terraces outside of the building. “The Vandersanden brick works with the other materials in the design to present a very organic aesthetic for The Spa at South Lodge,” says John Chapman of Felce and Guy. “It perfectly complements both the dark sandstone used in the original hotel and its mix of greys and brown as well as the natural surroundings. The straight, clean-lines and regular shape of the Vandersanden brick, together with the raked joint we’ve used, has helped emphasise the horizontality of the building and works especially well with the textured finish of the timber panels. As a practice, we set very high expectations which the Vandersanden bricks have undoubtedly satisfied.” In addition to a curving, meadow-grass roof, which helps to attenuate rainwater flow, the Spa at South Lodge benefits from other sustainable technologies and finishes. A biomass boiler system has been installed, and all drainage is contained on site, using reed bed technology. The existing ponds within the hotel grounds have been modified and extended to benefit the local ecology. Vandersanden itself is building a sustainable future for its business, having already invested in renewable solar and wind energy technologies at its major European production plants and committed to a pathway which will see the manufacture of CO2-neutral bricks by 2050. Underlining the significance of the project to the hotel and its management, every member of staff laid one brick as part of their contribution to The Spa at South Lodge. To find out more about the bricks used in this project or to see the wide range of high-quality bricks available from Vandersanden, click on the 'View more' link 

Birmingham’s New Street station is used by more than 170,000 passengers per day. The £750-million transformation of the station took five years to complete and involved the creation of an iconic new atrium for the passenger concourse, improved platforms, new entrances and a range of facilities including the ‘Grand Central’ shopping area. ACO Building Drainage designed a bespoke radial channel solution with 6mm uniformed joints which matched the channel covers provided by ACO. The team also designed an outlet for the channels, enabling them to deal with the deep slab design and technical practicalities of the site.

ExCeL is the largest permanent exhibition site in London that links up with the Aloft Hotel. The overall terrace area exceeds 2,100m², all on one level. Below the terrace are the car parks, with countless drain access points that require maintenance annually. The terrace required pedestals to accommodate a void of +/- 220mm, with circular adjustable spacer tabs to accept odd shaped pavers alongside linear pavers, however large enough to allow drainage for extreme weather conditions. The Buzon DPH series, with special rotating spacer tabs were used to achieve this. The total pedestals required exceeded 25,000 units.

Cibes installed their A5000 lift in Dyno Plumbing’s colourful and modern office in Trimdon. This one stop lift provides the ideal accessibility solution to this industrial inspired office. Homage is paid to the towns mining history with artefacts proudly displayed on the walls. The white steel panels and glass door sit perfectly in the bright and colourful surroundings. The plumbing and drainage experts have 50 years of experience, offer free call-outs 24/7 and fixed prices. They cover just about any commercial and private work, from the largest projects right down to unclogging your kitchen sink!

Howe Green’s 5000 Series access covers were chosen by interior specialists, Tekne Shopfitting Limited to provide access in The Tramshed, a Grade II listed building in London. The aluminium access covers were selected to provide a reliable route to essential underfloor building services in the Tramshed’s public washrooms and busy kitchens. Ensuring an excellent aesthetic finish, Tekne fitted four covers and inlaid each frame with resin flooring to match the surrounding area. The covers were double-sealed for use over foul drainage, with a third seal fitted to help prevent the ingress of dirt.

Over 40 of Howe Green’s 7500 Series Medium Duty Stainless Steel Access Covers were installed at The Nottingham Hub as part of the station's comprehensive enhancement project. Flooring specialists DMC Contracts Ltd required a network of access points within the station. They wanted to ensure that essential underfloor drainage, mechanical and electrical services could be reached quickly and easily. The 7500 Series specially designed recessed lids enabled the panels to be tiled with Quiligotti Terrazzo floor tiles. The result - an uninterrupted and continuous surface in the station's south concourse and Grade II listed porte-cochère.

Surespan manufactured this HIACE/GWO aluminium, single leaf, flush floor access hatch for a company in London to fit a structural opening 2600 x 650mm, recessed with TripleLite ‘Walk-on-glass’ infill. The lid is operated by two 24v DC actuators. The TripleLite 34mm thick glass suits pedestrian domestic loading only. The patent frame with unique hidden hinges incorporates an EPDM unbroken seal to help prevent the ingress of dirt and moisture. This access cover is not watertight, it is self-draining. Should any water pass the seals it will be dispersed via an integral drainage channel.

This funky-stylish 11 roomed boutique hotel is housed in a large Grade II-listed Georgian property, built originally as a grand private residence complete with long windows, an imposing colonnade, bold colours and distinctive contemporary art. No. 131 is right in the elegant centre of Cheltenham, overlooking Imperial Gardens, where many of the town's festivals take place and just off the stylish Montpellier neighbourhood. Wetroom Materials were able to use its bespoke drainage offering to come up with individual solutions that would meet the specific requirements of each shower area within the project.

This is a mixed-use, 43-storey tower in the heart of the City of London. It comprises a 237-room, 5* luxury hotel and 160 apartments or ‘Sky Residences’. Soaring above the city from level 21 to 41, the sky residences have unique views of some of London’s most iconic landmarks. Incorporating luxury apartments, private amenities and Pan Pacific Hotel, London’s new landmark tower is set to become the new statement for sophisticated modern living. A total of 200 Unidrain units were installed onto this project, all featuring the popular HighLine Custom drainage finish.

8300 SQM of Optima FC+, Optima FC+ perforated panels and Optima IPC (soffits) have been used in the completion of the 23-storey New Bailey building in Salford Quays.Optima FC+ was selected for a number of reasons on this project.Predominantly, it is an incredibly user friendly system – panels can be quickly and easily adjusted on site and the system can be fixed top down, or bottom up with individual panel removal and replacement. This makes Optima FC+ a highly desirable choice for designers and installers.However, the panels were specifically adapted for this project to enable a completely secret fix system, as per the architects vision. Therefore the top return fold was increased to 50mm instead of 38mm. This allowed for the security fixings to be completely concealed by the panel above, allowing the customer to easily fit the panels from ground up.Optima FC+ perforated panels were chosen as an additional aesthetic feature and Optima IPC was selected for the soffit areas as the architect requested a secret fix system.A bespoke window reveal and bracket was included in the panel design. This allowed for an extended side return which was used to hook on the panels and enable a secret fix. The Optima IPC system was perfect for this part of the design as it enables hidden mechanical fixings and is a cost-effective solution using 2.0mm aluminium.Black PPC aluminium was used as backing trays to enhance the appearance of the perforations, prevent views through the perforations and close off the cavity.Optima FC+ has been independently tested and certified to meet CWCT rigorous specification for rainscreen cladding and has been fire tested to BS8414-2 and classified to BR135 for high rise buildings. This makes it the perfect solution for Plot C1, now the tallest residential building in the New Bailey plot.Plot C1, which features a six-storey podium with an exclusive rooftop garden terrace for the wellbeing of residents, incorporates a number of sustainability measures including surface water drainage attenuation, minimising off site spoil disposal, reduced water consumption.The project has been shortlisted in the 2022 Facade Awards UK for ‘Best use of a rainscreen system using aluminium’.

Sheldon Court is a development comprising of 64 affordable 1 and 2 bedroom apartments. All apartments have a modern finish that delivers light-filled living spaces with an eye-catching, bold, architectural window-lined façade. With good public transport to Birmingham airport and city centre. The apartments also have 60 parking spaces some of which have electric charging points for electric vehicles.Cellecta’s HiDECK Acoustic Overlay 28 was specified by Elevate Property Group due to its high sound reduction performance, protecting sound in gym areas and entertainment areas getting into guest rooms. This highly conductive structural floorboard has rapid heat transfer characteristics, enabling a more efficient underfloor heating system.Centrick Property was awarded this 3,500m² contract to construct this development in East Birmingham.

The Heineken brewery at Tadcaster has a 38 million litre capacity and is one of the largest in the country.The Heineken brewery produces more than 90% of the beers sold in the UK, and around 30% of the nation’s apples go into their ciders. The company required upgraded door systems at their processing facility in Tadcaster. Dortek supplied large Novosprint high speed doors between storage and production areas. The short opening and closing speeds of the Novosprint doors which have speeds of up to 5 m/s were ideal for this client who wanted fast, collision free access. The doors were also equipped with radar activation sensors, two photocells and traffic light control for safe and trouble-free operation. The safety sensors prevent the risk of accidents and drastically reduce any damage to the goods or the transport vehicles using the doors.

Client: Royal Borough of Greenwich Council Architect: Frankham Consultancy Group Assembly & Performance:·        All constructions including APL Tritherm™ structural framing system and all as non-combustible assemblies·        Roof – 10,000 m² of APL Energi Twin-Skin: Profile 31/1000RR in stucco-embossed mill-finish aluminium on walk-on roof liner plus all associated flashings, gutters, fixings and sealants, U-value = 0.18 W/m².K·        Walls - 10,000 m² of APL Energi Twin-Skin: Profile AP45HR in RAL 9006 PVF2 aluminium on wall liner plus all associated flashings, fixings & sealants, U-value = 0.16 W/m².K Special Features:·        Client required a 40-year maintenance free material for the roof in the marine location·        Multiple consultants employed by the end client to ensure the construction exceed current building regulation due to the proximity to Grenfell·        APL clamp-end lap detail for the roof to allow for thermal expansion·        APL Firewall™ with 60 minute integrity and 60 minute insulation ™ construction due to boundary walls Building Location:·        London Borough of Greenwich