"ventilation systems and ventilators"

An architect designed, self-build house with annexe for a multi-generational family built to zero-carbon standards.The scheme’s design is influenced by the architectural vernacular of the area. The surrounding houses are a legacy of the Land Settlement Association scheme, with distinctive mansard roofs, steeply sloping gables and dormer windows, constructed in a simple red brick with terracotta plain tiles.The mansard is reflected in the new house with the roof extending down to form the walls. Instead of terracotta tiles, large format slate has been used to form a modern equivalent. The house is mainly slate tile; however, it was felt important to also reflect local brickwork. As such, brickwork was used for two huge brick-faced chimney stacks that rise through the gable.PROJECT INFOTo form a contrast with the very smooth grey of the slate, a textured red brick with slight colour variation was sought. White mortar lightens the brickwork while recessed mortar joints are used inside to provide shadow to each brick. Perforated brickwork surrounds the stone coping on both chimney stacks, adding visual interest to the building through both the materials and the shadows created by the brickwork perforations.The brick selected was stock thrown Hampton Rural Blend from Forterra’s Ecostock range. It has a rustic finish resembling handmade brick. Ecostock bricks are manufactured using the latest technology in sustainability and production efficiency, producing bricks with low embodied energy as well as advanced colour consistency, dimensional accuracy and quality.The structure incorporated huge amounts of insulation, a mechanical ventilation with heat recovery system, and a solar photovoltaic array at the bottom of the garden, along with a ground-source heat pump. These installations will ensure that the house generates more electricity than it could ever use.

In 2015, Roger Stretton, an architect and one of the foundersof the practice Berman Guedes Stretton, and Martin Smithcollaborated to bring to fruition their shared enthusiasm forcontemporary, cutting edge, environmentally-friendly residentialdesign.On an attractive, mature garden site near Dorchester in Dorset,two 2,100 sq ft detached, two-storey houses were designedaround south facing courtyards with a one-and-a-half storeyheight living room.When designing the properties, environmentally responsiblematerials, products and processes were at the forefront ofthe specification. To this end, incorporating renewable andinnovative technologies, such as air-source heat pumps and heatrecovery ventilation systems enable the buildings to be highlyenergy efficient.Having previously used Allgood products, Roger recognisedthe brand for its quality and reliability, and consequentlyspecified Allgood’s Alite lever handles and Allgood doorsetsfor the project. He explains, “The new houses have a modern,minimalist design, so it was essential that the ironmongery anddoors complemented this approach, Allgood’s stainless steel Alitehandles and bespoke finished doors met these requirements.”To complement the interior architecture of the buildings, Allgoodsupplied doorsets incorporating fully fabricated and finishedflush doors with rebated frames to create a perimeter shadowgap. An important design feature was a clear line of visionthrough each house along the main axis of the plan. To achievethis, four special, full-height glazed doors with glazed side panelswere supplied. In addition, two 30 minute fire resisting doorswere also specified to the plant-rooms.Arriving on site, factory painted and with hinges and locksalready fitted, the Allgood doorsets provide valuable savings intime, cost and waste as well as a higher quality finish.

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

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

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

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

With average daily energy bills of only 24p, the cottages at Howgate Close have earned a reputation as possibly the UK’s most energy-efficient homes*. Built by farmer Dr Chris Parsons, the row of nine, single storey cottages exploits a range of passive solar design principles** - including a southerly orientation, a high thermal mass and a earth-bonding (external walls partially covered in soil) - to create homes which are exceptionally energy efficient and comfortable to live in. The homes are also truly affordable as no artificial heat source is required to deliver a stable internal temperature averaging 21-23 degrees Centigrade. The cottages instead use a mix of passive heat sources, created by people and appliances, and solar gain generated through VELFAC triple glazed aluminium / timber windows. As a result, the energy consumption of a two bedroom cottage is 94% less than the average UK household. The architecture of Howgate Close is based on designs created by sustainability housing experts Hockerton Housing Project** ( https://www.hockertonhousingproject.org.uk/) with performance further enhanced by Dr Jerry Harrall (https://drharrall.com) a consultant in the design and adaptation of fossil-fuel-free buildings. ‘Describing Howgate Close as a development of eco-homes is to understate its performance,’ states Dr Harrall. ‘In fact all nine properties operate beyond zero-carbon, and instrumental to the success of Howgate Close is the installation of VELFAC composite triple glazing, specified for its excellent thermal performance.’ A key feature of every cottage is a large, white framed VELFAC composite window screen installed on south facing facades. The screens combine fixed units and a sliding patio door, and with dimensions of up to 3m x 5m occupy almost the entire wall. ‘The VELFAC windows play a crucial role in achieving a SAP rating for each cottage of around 143, potentially the highest group of SAP rating’s in the country and a significant improvement of the average rating of 63,’ says Dr Harrall. ‘VELFAC triple glazing has a U-value of 0.8W/m2K which reduces the rate of heat loss while bringing more natural light into each home, thereby reducing the need for artificial light,’ says Dr Harrall. ‘Across the development, the windows are actually net gatherers of heat, and contribute to an annual energy surplus which we estimate will be enough to power another similar dwelling.’ Unwanted solar gain is minimised by the exceptional insulation afforded by the triple glazed units, enhanced by low emissivity coatings applied to inner glass panes. Ventilation is primarily mechanical but supported by trickle vents within the window frames, and by cross ventilation using additional, smaller VELFAC windows installed in the rear facade. ‘Triple glazing also delivers excellent acoustic insulation,’ adds Dr Harrall, ‘which is important, as the cottages are located within actively cultivated farmland, and are near a busy road and wind turbines.’ Howgate Close is now a model development for affordable, ultra-low energy homes and is also the focus of a two year research and monitoring project, co-run by Dr Harrall and Professor Anton Ianakiev, Professor in Sustainable Energy Systems at Nottingham Trent University (NTU). ‘I have also co-authored an academic paper on Howgate Close,’ adds Dr Harrall, ‘which aims to show that it is possible to design, construct and live in buildings without resort to fossil fuels.’—ends— * Analysis by Elmhurst Energy, the UK’s largest independent provider of energy assessment, retrofit and property professional training, software and accreditation. * * Principles advanced by Professors Brenda and Robert Vale, architects of the Hockerton Housing Project, the design of which inspired Howgate Close.

Façade automation for environmental ventilation, CO2 and temperature control incorporating night time cooling.

Borrisokane Community CollegeBauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing systemSynopsisOriginally constructed in the 1970s on the site of former workhouses in County Tipperary, the Borrisokane Community College building needed to be demolished and replaced, having exceeded its serviceable life. The client wanted to bring a modern and refreshed appearance to what is a site of great historical significance and the new building’s roof played an integral role in achieving this; with the majority of the roof areas sloping inwards towards the open central courtyard area making them highly visible.Bauder Building BoardProject:Borrisokane Community CollegeLocation:BorrisokaneRoof Area:3,650m²Specifier:Healy & Partners Architects Main Contractor:JJ Rhatigan & Co.Approved Contractor:Priority Roofing & CladdingThe specificationRoof areas totalling over 3,000m2 were fitted with Bauder’s Thermofol single ply fleece backed membrane, which is lightweight, visually appealing and possesses a high tensile strength of ≥ 1100N/50 mm. The system build-up included 160 mm of Bauder’s Thermotech Glass Insulation for superior thermal performance, ensuring the roof achieved the required 0.19 U-Value, and PVC roof profiles were also installed as a cost effective way of replicating the appearance of a standing seam metal roof. Bauder supplied new rooflights to deliver high standards of illumination, insulation and ventilation, and smaller single storey roofs were waterproofed with its bituminous Bauderflex system.Products appliedBauder ThermofolA high quality single ply PVC system with a life expectancy in excess of 30 years.Bauder ThermotechAn efficient PIR insulation board with a coated glass tissue facing on both sidesThe result Despite the various design and logistical challenges encountered, all roofing works were completed to budget and in time for the start of the inaugural school term much to the delight of everyone involved in the project. System installedBauderThermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system1 Bauder Thermofol U15 FRA 1.5mm thick, reinforced PVC waterproofing membrane. Stated within BBA certificate 06/4354, the Thermofol PVC waterproofing membranes have a service life in excess of 35 years. 2 Bauder ThermotechAn efficient PIR insulation board with a coated glass tissue facing on both sides.3 BauderTEC KSD FBSA 2.5mm depth, self-adhesive air & vapour control layer with a mica finish.AdvocacyHealy & Partners Architects:“Bauder delivered a roofing solution of the highest quality, providing expert technical support throughout the project. Their single ply waterproofing system has undeniably helped in transforming the appearance of the college and most importantly given the client total confidence with regards to their roof’s long term future performance.”

Passivent case study - Westquay Watermark leisure quarter, Southampton. Includes Passivent Aircool facade ventilators

Passivent case study - The SSE Hydro entertainment venue, Glasgow Includes Passivent Aircool facade ventilators

Nicholson AIRTRAK™ ventilators were used in the retail destination Coal Drops Yard in Kings Cross.

Linea23 is an architectural residential project designed by Studio Sigurtà in Desenzano del Garda, for which various Atlas Concorde porcelain tiles were chosen for the creation of ventilated walls, outdoor floors and walls.The Trust and Studio ceramic collections are the protagonists of the project and outer facades were covered using ventilated walls in which ceramic tiles create a gap that facilitates the circulation of air. The use of ventilated walls also leads to other advantages: the building is protected from moisture while indoor spaces are healthier and do not suffer from thermal shock.The Trust collection by Atlas Concorde, used for the outdoor floors and swimming-pool edges, evokes natural stone and allows for alluring residential venues both indoors and outdoors.The Linea23 project saw the use of various Atlas Concorde products for outdoor floors and walls. Particularly resistant to thermal shock, Atlas Concorde porcelain tiles are the perfect solution also as terrace flooring.

A natural ventilation solution from SE Controls Africa is helping shoppers at Maerua Mall in Namibia to keep their cool.

The Erratics Exhibition features an impressive 6.5m by 5.5m sculpture, created by Lubna Chowdhary, who fabricated a stunning giant modular sculpture using ROCKWOOL® RockLap heating and ventilation pipe (H&V) sections.Lubna Chowdary chose ROCKWOOL RockLap sections as it was a material that could be easily formed and constructed into more complex shapes with minimal tools and processes.Traditionally used for heating and ventilation pipes in a range of settings, ROCKWOOL RockLap sections have been proven to deliver thermal insulation performance.

This project used 54 ROOFBOX™ cabinets and kerbs to house many duct and ventilation penetrations across two roofs.

Façade automation to achieve a hybrid environmental ventilation solution to create a controllable microclimate to optimise energy consumption/thermal comfort.

George Abbott SchoolBauder Thermofol single ply waterproofing system with Bauder Euroglaze rooflightsSynopsisLocated in Guildford, George Abbot School is a secondary education school which provides education for 2000 people aged 11 to 18. The school had a history of leaks in the DT rooms above which a profiled sheet metal roof was installed.Following many attempted repairs, Bauder was commissioned to carry out a roof survey on the 228m² profiled sheet metal roof. The report identified issues with not only the gutter area, which was originally believed to be the problematic area, but also with the adjoining profiled roof and also with the large rooflight unit.Bauder Building BoardProject: George Abbott SchoolLocation: Guildford, SurreyRoof Area: 228m²Specifier: Baily GarnerApproved Contractor: Inspire Contract ServicesThe specification Bauder submitted a proposal to refurbish all areas of the failing roof:The gutter area needing standing water to be removed for which Bauder tapered insulation was proposed to create effective drainage falls.The adjoining profiled sheet metal roof requiring a new waterproofing system. The Bauder Profiled Roof Overlay system was determined to be the best solution, using bespoke profiled insulation boards specifically designed to fit the shape of the roof. The Thermofol U15 Fleece Back membrane was then specified as the waterproofing layer providing a robust yet lightweight waterproofing system to the roof.The existing rooflight unit, being one of the problematic areas of the rooftop, was also replaced with Bauder Euroglaze rooflights. Products appliedInsulation infill systemIntended for refurbishing profiled sheet metal roofs or increasing the thermal performance of existing insulated cladding systems.Bauder Euroglaze rooflightsModular rooflight designed to provide high standards of illumination, insulation and ventilation to the interior of flat roofed buildings. These are made to order and the size can therefore be tailor made to fit any roof aperture. The resultBauder approved contractor, Inspire Contracts, installed the roof system and rooflights. Bauder’s expert site technicians carried out over 10 site visits during the 4 months of works on the site. Following a final site visit and a leak test Bauder was able to issue a 20 year product and workmanship guarantee to the client.The choice to use Bauder, a single source of manufacturing for the roof systems and the rooflight, proved beneficial as it enabled Bauder’s flat roof technician team to design out a number of the detailing issues responsible for the historic leak problems and it also eased the installation process for the client and the approved contractor, as Bauder provided its integral service from the roof survey to the final site visit and the issue of the guarantee.System installed Bauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system 1 Bauder THERMOFOL U15 FRA 1.5mm thick, reinforced PVC waterproofing membrane. Stated within BBA certificate 06/4354, the Thermofol PVC waterproofing membranes have a service life in excess of 35 years. 2 Bauder PIR MTissue-faced flat board insulation, benefitting from a zero ODP and a Green guide rating of ‘A’.3 DeckProfiled sheet metal

Surespan is increasingly being asked to provide specialist glazed access and ventilation solutions. Project:The architects working on a project at Stratton House in London, approached Surespan to design and manufacture a“bird wing” style, double-leaf glazed ventilator with concealed operating gear from below. Surespan was chosen for its expertise in producing bespoke products.Product:The operation of each leaf ensured maximum airflow into the building below and smoke release in the event of a fire. Measuring 2500 x 2000mm and polyester powder coated white to match existing building roof furniture.

Optimised levels of natural light and ventilation have transformed a Grade II Listed Building into a highly productive learning space The main challenge for Newcastle-based Xsite Architecture was to refurbish the Hawthorne building so that it created a space where students wanted to congregate in the communal areas beneath, yet still satisfied Listed Buildings’ requirements and maintained the feel of the industrial heritage of the site. A key requirement was high levels of natural light and ventilation and the architects took their lead from the mounting body of research that shows how these elements can increase learning capacity.

SE Controls smoke ventilation products have been used at two new prestige, sports and SUV car dealerships in Tokai, Cape Town.

UNIZO office building CHALLENGE Dedalus Architects specified zinc for waterproofing the timber frame UNIZO office building in Eeklo. Not only for the roof, but also for the facade and bottom side of a unique construction detail. To be precise, waterproofing horizontally, vertically and even upside down! To entirely cover the structure however, appeared not to be possible when using zinc. If you opt to use this traditional waterproofing material a ventilated air space must be provided underneath the zinc covering. This of course entails an opening for ventilation purposes underneath the roof edge, if not, condensation will occur. In the case of a building where the facade has to connect seamlessly with the roof and the underside, leaving an opening is not a possibility. So, despite the attractive appearance of zinc, a waterproofing solution with this material was not an option. SOLUTION Thanks to their collaboration with roofer ALBITUM and previous experiences with RENOLIT roofing products, Dedalus Architects came up with a nice alternative: RENOLIT ALKORDESIGN standing seam imitation. A perfect solution for a difficult challenge. No ventilation needed, no connection problems, the same looks as a zinc roof and, above all, more cost effective! 

With RoofDek as the structural deck, the school’s roofs feature rainwater harvesting, high levels of thermal insulation, natural ventilation, green sedum roofs and solar thermal panels.

The Roscoe building in the Greenbank Student Village at the University of Liverpool completed with the installation of 5,500m2 of StoVentec R ventilated rainscreen cladding, and finished with Sto Lotusan external render.

Crittall Corporate W20 windows are an important component in the refurbishment and upgrade of a prominent industrial site in historic Bath.Newark Works is recognised as a masterclass in the retrofitting of heritage buildings that has transformed a former riverside heavy engineering factory into 21st century workspace.The buildings, dating from 1857 to 1905, are Grade II listed and sit within Bath’s designated World Heritage Site. They were formerly the home of world-renowned crane makers Stothert & Pitt but had fallen into serious disrepair. Their location as part of a larger Bath Quays redevelopment spurred their re-use, underpinned by sensitive treatment, to create 40,000sq.ft of modern workspace.“We specified the Crittall W20 system to replace the existing, single-glazed, cast-iron framed windows that were at the end of their life and deemed beyond repair,” said Nick Brown, Director of Ferguson Mann Architects.He explained: “The Crittall W20 system was chosen due to the need to use a window system that could sympathetically reproduce the fenestration of the large industrial windows – many of which were 3.6m tall – but also provide a huge thermal improvement.”  It was recognised that retaining the original cast iron windows and introducing secondary glazing was neither economically viable nor appropriate aesthetically.“The slim profiles of the Crittall W20 system meant we didn’t have to compromise on the amazing amount of natural light coming into the interior whilst improving the air tightness and reducing the overall heat loss of the building through the windows,” said Brown.He added: “Crittall were also able to recreate the opening vent arrangement of the existing windows, meaning we could also improve the natural ventilation provision to the new workspaces.”Consulting engineers Buro Happold calculated that just replacing the existing single-glazed windows with new double-glazed alternatives with a U-value of 1.8W/m2K would result in a 16 percent annual energy saving. That translated to 21.4 tonnes of CO₂. Over the building’s lifespan of, say, 25 years, that equated to a 535-tonne reduction in CO₂ emissions.In view of the heritage credentials of the buildings, planners and conservation officers at Bath & North East Somerset Council were consulted on the desire to replace the original fenestration with like-for-like steel windows. The local authority was keen that the buildings should be brought back into use after several previous failed attempts. They wanted the site’s historic significance to be respected while avoiding the desire to turn Newark Works into a ‘museum piece’. The installation of Crittall W20 was approved and two of the original cast-iron windows have been retained and refurbished as a reminder of the original building but not in a way so as to compromise the improved thermal performance of the whole.Summing up, Nick Brown comments: “Everyone is really pleased with the final result.”

SOLID WOOD FLOOR SYMPATHETIC CHOICE FOR HERITAGE BUILDING Junckers Black Oak flooring has been installed as part of the restoration of Paisley Town Hall. Architects Holmes Miller transformed the Grade A listed building into a high-end venue and public space with careful restoration work to preserve the grand Neoclassical architecture. With a focus on future-proofing the venue in terms of environmental performance and adaptability, Holmes Miller’s design overhauled the existing building by stripping it right back and upgrading services to modern standards, including replacing the heating and ventilation systems with tempered air fed through concealed ducts hidden beneath the wooden floors and using destratification fans to recycle warm air, especially useful in auditorium which has a high ceiling. Accessibility was improved and new functions for previously unused spaces were introduced. As well as a live venue, the town hall now includes a dance studio, café and bar, wedding suites, banqueting, screening room and commercial catering. Junckers’ flooring was installed in several areas, including the main auditorium where the stage was entirely rebuilt to incorporate a rise-and-fall functionality. To introduce more flexibility to the space, the ground floor seating was replaced by a retractable system. The hard-wearing surface of a Junckers’ pre-finished solid hardwood floor is very resistant to the wear and tear associated with a retractable system and the sprung quality of the flooring system will remain intact. Junckers Black Oak Harmony flooring was identified by Holmes Miller during the design stage analysis as a sympathetic choice for the heritage building. The two-strip floorboards, also prevalent in the Black Oak Twin Herringbone installed in some areas, give a narrow parquet appearance in keeping with the original flooring and the dark colour is historically appropriate. Junckers Black Oak is made by mimicking the natural process where oak submerged in a bog takes on a dark hue which pen- etrates the tree trunk. The Black Oak stain is drawn deep into each floorboard which means it can be sanded and refinished without loss of colour. It also means the floor is much more resistant to superficial damage compared to a stained floor- board. Steven Coulson, Associate at Homes Miller added: “The flooring was specified due to a great mix of quality, sustainability credentials and sympathy to the heritage building aesthetic.” The £22M restoration forms part of Renfrewshire Council’s regeneration programme of Paisley’s historic cultural venues. Upgrading historic buildings, particularly public buildings, is a fast-growing trend towards re-use rather than demolishing and building new. By taking a long-term view to retrofit and restore Paisley Town Hall, the Council has secured its sustainable future whilst remaining sympathetic to its history. The flooring was installed by Partnership Flooring. The main contractor was Morrison Construction. 

ProjectSurespan designed and manufactured these huge electrically operated sliding glazed roof hatches also provide free airflow of 7m² for smoke ventilation!These bespoke designs were part of a redevelopment on Great Portland Street in London. The covers were 4610 x 1955mm and featured an electrically driven opening motor.Product: The covers provide 7m² free airflows (As it is sliding there are no obstructions to the ventilation) according to approved document B (fire safety) paragraph 5b diagrams C.7.The glazing features laminated and heat-strengthened low iron glass to L40.A further fixed rooflight was also supplied to the size of 4935mm x 1955mm, the thermally broken multi-pane rooflight provides natural daylight

Project: Surespan designed and manufactured these huge electrically operated sliding glazed roof hatches also provide free airflow of 7m² for smoke ventilation!These bespoke designs were part of a redevelopment on Great Portland Street in London. The covers were 4610 x 1955mm and featured an electrically driven opening motor.Product:The covers provide 7m² free airflow (As it is sliding there are no obstructions to the ventilation) according to approved document B (fire safety) paragraph 5b diagrams C.7.The glazing features laminated and heat-strengthened low iron glass to L40.A further fixed rooflight was also supplied to the size of 4935mm x 1955mm, the thermally broken multi-pane rooflight provides natural daylight

SE Controls' brief was to supply, install and project manage a full turnkey solution to meet the fire safety and smoke ventilation needs in three of the new buildings at the Nottingham Chettles Yard student housing development.

Salamander Street is a mid-market rent initiative that provides high quality affordable homes in the heart of Leith, Edinburgh. It comprises 199 flats and maisonettes across six storeys of accommodation, constructed over a basement car park.It was designed by 7N Architects, which specified Knauf Insulation’s 50mm Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab to insulate the ventilated façade. They chose this product because it met the brief’s two critical performance factors: thermal performance and fire safety.It is a Rock Mineral Wool insulation slab with a thermal conductivity of 0.034W/mK, so it delivers the required U-value of 0.16 W/m2K. It is non-combustible with the best possible Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification and is BBA certified for use in a wide range of build-ups in high rise buildings. This means it complies with Building Regulations in Scotland that restrict the use of combustible materials on most buildings over 11m.The Salamander Street development was overseen by main contractor Cruden Building East with sub-contractor Soundtex responsible for installing the insulation.It was constructed using an Ancon Brick Restraint System. Ancon has undertaken independent third-party tests to demonstrate that its restraint system does not require a compression sleeve when used in conjunction with Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab under 180mm thick. This provided a huge saving in labour costs for Soundtex as fasteners are usually inserted into compression sleeves by hand.Throughout the build, Knauf Insulation’s Specification Team attended regular project meetings and conducted site visits to check the quality and progress of installation. Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is optimised for ease of installation and improved robustness, making it easy to manoeuvre into position. At Salamander Street, the Specification Team noted the uniformity of installation and perfectly staggered joints. This is important because it ensures there are no gaps, which could reduce thermal and acoustic performance – a common issue with rigid foam board insulation.Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is manufactured with ECOSE® Technology, Knauf Insulation's unique bio-based binder that contains no added formaldehyde or phenol. It is made from natural raw materials that are rapidly renewable and is 70% less energy-intensive to manufacture than traditional binders, so it is more environmentally friendly.Products made with ECOSE® Technology are soft to touch and easy to handle. They generate low levels of dust and VOCs and have been awarded the Eurofins Gold Certificate for Indoor Air Comfort.The Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab insulation was installed in conjunction with Knauf Windliner sheathing board for maximum performance.Thanks to Knauf Insulation, the residents of Salamander Street will enjoy warm, cosy homes that meet the highest standards of fire safety.

Working with Purcell, the project architects, and William Anelay, Nicholson is providing the stainless steel AIRTRAK® ventilation profiles. Many of these profiles are being manufactured to bespoke angles and dimensions for each particular situation in which they are being utilised.

BriefAs part of the drive to revitalise Kirkby Town Centre, the local authority, Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council, has been significantly investing in regeneration works. A redundant B&M shopping centre formed an important part of the uplift.At 36,000 sq ft, the empty precinct was the largest vacant unit in the town centre and was in need of significant repair and modernisation. Bringing the building up to date was crucial in encouraging businesses back to the area and delivering more choice of retail outlets to visitors.The project was estimated to cost £1.66million, with £450,000 allocated to the roof renovation, which was to be carried out by Paramount Roofing Systems, in association with IKO.ChallengesThe busy, central location of the shopping centre presented several challenges for the roof installation. The existing roof needed a comprehensive refurbishment, including stripping back to the metal decking and removal of all layers and outdated materials.A total of 48 redundant skylights needed to be carefully and meticulously taken out as they were no longer needed or functional. Any obsolete ventilation fans and plant equipment also had to be removed, as streamlining roof space was essential for efficiency. This all had to take place before the installation commenced.When it came to delivery of materials, there was limited laydown due to the surrounding live loading bays for neighbouring shops and this lack of space also affected the storage of the materials on-site.Inclement weather presented a significant challenge for the team. Despite operations taking place during the summer, torrential downpours were frequent. Protecting the integrity of the building was paramount to ensure the businesses below the installation could continue trading without risk of water ingress or leaks.SolutionAs this was such an expansive project, it was important that the roofing system was robust, easy to install and would stand the test of time. IKO worked with Paramount Roofing Systems to ensure the most suitable solution was specified for the replacement roof.A fully built-up bituminous felt warm roof was chosen as the best option, as it was designed to ensure effective insulation, weatherproofing and longevity for many years to come.To mitigate disruption to nearby trade, Paramount Roofing Systems effectively coordinated with local businesses for the duration of the project. The team established a robust schedule, so that construction activity was minimally affected by the town centre’s busy hours and zoned time restrictions.A telescopic forklift truck was hired specifically for the project, to handle offloading and loading more efficiently and allow the team to move more precisely within the confined space. Four operatives were trained to ensure that the forklift truck was used safely, which was imperative given the high footfall close to the site.IKO arranged for bulk materials to be delivered directly to the roof to help overcome the issue of restricted space. Materials were also stored off-ground and covered at all times with strategically placed tarpaulins to avoid water damage from the persistent rain.Despite the wet weather conditions hindering progress, the project was delivered just over the expected time frame of 8-10 weeks. The collaboration between IKO and Paramount Roofing Systems was pivotal in ensuring that the project met and exceeded requirements – contributing to an integral building that promises to give a much-needed boost to Kirkby town centre.

Deansgate Square, one of Manchester’s highest profile city centre residential developments, is using mechanical smoke control and ventilation solutions from SE Controls to protect residents by keeping corridors, stairwells and escapes routes clear of smoke, should an apartment fire occur.

This case study focuses on the successful implementation of Britmet's Structural Conversion System, BritFrame, and composite slate tile, Liteslate, installed by ART Contracts LTD in a residential flat roof renovation project near Llangollen. The existing roof had been plagued by ponding and water ingress, necessitating repeated repairs and replacements over 20 years. This case study explores the benefits, challenges, and outcomes of utilizing the Britframe and Liteslate, providing a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing solution. Residential flat roofs are susceptible to issues such as ponding water, water ingress and yearly inspections, which can lead to recurrent maintenance and repair requirements. This case study showcases the utilisation of Britmet Lightweight Roofing's Britframe Structural Conversion System and Liteslate to overcome these challenges and deliver a durable, low-maintenance roofing solution. Britframe is a versatile and innovative solution designed to convert flat roofs into pitched roofs, providing improved water runoff and a new more aesthetically pleasing finish, and reduced risk of ponding water and improved thermal performance. This can be covered using a variety of different roofing materials, and Liteslate, a lightweight synthetic slate roofing slate, was specified due to its excellent weather resistance, durability, and aesthetically appealing finish. Llangollen is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site along eleven miles of canal from Gledrid to the Horseshoe Falls and required a durable yet authentic roofing solution.The project involved the renovation of a residential flat roof that had undergone multiple repairs and replacements over 20 years due to ponding and water ingress, and constant maintenance. ART Contracts LTD was tasked with implementing and installing LiteSlate to resolve recurring issues.The Britframe System converted the existing flat roof into a pitched roof, enabling efficient water runoff and preventing ponding, thereby eliminating the risk of water ingress, and reducing the need for yearly inspections and constant maintenance to site, Britmet’s Liteslate offered excellent weather resistance and durability, reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements while offering an attractive finish replicating the appearance of natural slate. Overall offering the advantages of lightweight construction and ease of installation.Conducting a thorough structural assessment of the existing flat roof to ensure compatibility and feasibility of the Britframe required careful analysis and engineering expertise. Coordinating the installation of the Britframe and Liteslate with existing roof features, such as skylights or ventilation systems, posed challenges in achieving a seamless integration.The implementation of Britframe has effectively addressed the issue of ponding, providing efficient water runoff and preventing water ingress into the residential property. The utilisation of Liteslate offered exceptional durability, weather resistance, and longevity, significantly reducing the need for future repairs and replacements, and thereby providing long-term cost savings. Liteslate also improved the overall aesthetic appeal of the residential property, replicating the natural beauty of slate roofing while offering the advantages of lightweight construction. The integration of the Britmet Lightweight Britframe System and Liteslate successfully addressed the challenges the building was facing. The project resulted in improved water runoff, enhanced durability, a more aesthetically pleasing roofing solution, along with a new 60+ year life expectancy. This case study emphasizes the importance of selecting innovative and reliable roofing systems to overcome recurring roofing issues and deliver long-lasting and visually appealing outcomes.

The new energy efficient Agrivaal building in Pretoria’s Tshwane Central Business District is using advanced natural ventilation and smoke control solutions from SE Controls Africa to maintain a comfortable indoor environment while improving safety by ensuring escape routes are smoke free in the event of a fire.

When completed, A3 New Bailey in Manchester will be one of Europe’s greenest buildings. Not only has it been designed to achieve the toughest sustainability ratings, it will also feature Europe’s largest living wall. But as with any innovative project, it presented some major challenges when it came to the specification of the rainscreen façade system. Meeting the target U-value Lester Cladding NW Ltd were responsible for the design and build of the façade. A rock mineral wool product with a thermal conductivity of 0.035 W/mK had been specified. But when conducting the calculations, they instantly ran into a problem. An insulation depth of 240mm was required to achieve the U-value of 0.15W/m2K.  Jamie Simm, Operations Director at Lester Cladding NW Ltd explained: “There was a strict external and internal boundary, so we needed to keep the façade wall build-up within those measurements. But the amount of insulation needed to meet the target U-value increased the depth of the wall, pushing it over the boundary line.” When looking for an alternative solution, the company approached Knauf Insulation’s Project Specification Team to discuss the brief. As well as meeting the thermal performance requirement, the insulation needed to comply with building regulations that ban the use of combustible materials in the external walls of certain buildings over 18m tall. It also needed to help reduce noise and meet the project’s sustainability targets.  After running 3D U-value calculations, Knauf Insulation’s Technical Support Team recommended 170mm Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab for the ventilated façade, a rock mineral wool insulation which has a thermal conductivity of 0.034 W/mK. For the Steel Frame System (SFS), they recommended 150mm OmniFit® Slab 35, a glass mineral wool insulation with a thermal conductivity of 0.035 W/mK.  This combination reduced the thickness of the wall build-up by a significant 70mm, ensuring the U-value could be met within the required parameter for the wall build-up. Simms said: “Not only did Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab offer superior U-value performance for a slimmer profile, it reduced costs across the whole build. As well as reducing the quantity of insulation required, we could use smaller helping hand brackets and thinner fire barriers for example. It was the product that steered the job through.” In addition to achieving the required thermal performance, both products are non-combustible with a Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification. This means they will not add to the development or spread of fire, so comply with the building regulations. Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is also British Board of Agrément (BBA) certified for use in buildings of any height and for the broadest range of thicknesses and build-ups of any rainscreen solution on the market. Mineral wool also has an open fibre matrix, which means it has sound absorbent properties. The insulation will help to reduce noise from the busy city centre location and from disturbing residents. Project complexity The choice of insulation was not the only challenge for the build. There is no template for supporting Europe’s biggest living wall. So, Lester Cladding NW Ltd needed to draw on their own extensive knowledge and expertise, as well as that of the whole supply chain to create a bespoke solution from the ground up.   One problem with this approach, was that every potential solution impacted another aspect of the façade build-up. To overcome this, Lester Cladding NW Ltd took the unusual step of arranging a meeting between representatives from eight different design and manufacturing partners. Together they discussed the whole system ‘screw by screw’.  “Getting everyone sitting around the table meant that all our manufacturing and design partners were completely engaged. They understood what we were trying to achieve, and all worked together to find the best solution.” There was one particular factor that could affect the insulation – water. While a living wall utilises planting schemes that thrive in drier conditions, a 4,000m2 living façade still requires a lot of watering – something that could introduce lots of extra moisture into the system. Knauf Insulation’s Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab has a water-repellent additive that promotes water run-off and ensures the slab will maintain its integrity. A traditional façade system prevents the insulation from getting saturated by rainwater, while the ventilation reduces the build-up of condensation and allows the insulation to dry out if it does get wet.  However, the water-repellent additive does not make the insulation waterproof, so it needed protection from the constant flow of water from the irrigation system. As a result, an additional breather membrane was installed to prevent moisture from penetrating the façade system and affecting the insulation. Sustainability A3 New Bailey has been designed to UKGBC’s Net Zero Carbon Framework and WELL Building Standard principles, as well as to achieve BREEAM Outstanding and Wired Score Platinum ratings. This meant the sustainability of the construction materials themselves was also important.  Here Knauf Insulation’s products ticked all the boxes too. Its glass and rock mineral wool insulation are made from materials that come from either naturally abundant sources or are recycled. For example, its glass mineral wool is made with upto 80% recycled glass from locally collected and processed household bottles and jars. Glass mineral wool has the lowest levels of embodied carbon of any mainstream insulation material. So, combining the use of both Knauf Insulation glass and rock mineral wool meant that the insulation solution for A3 New Bailey had less embodied carbon than a traditional all-rock insulation solution. Both products are also manufactured with ECOSE® Technology, Knauf Insulation's unique bio-based binder that contains no added formaldehyde or phenol. ECOSE® Technology is made from natural raw materials that are rapidly renewable and is 70% less energy-intensive to manufacture than a traditional binder. They also generate low levels of dust and VOCs and have been awarded the Eurofins Gold Certificate for Indoor Air Comfort. This contributes to the health of both installers and residents. Its entire glass mineral wool product range is also Declare Red List Free, which means that it does not contain any harmful chemicals on the ‘Red List’.  Thanks to Knauf Insulation’s advice, technical support and high-performance insulation solutions, Lester Cladding NW Ltd was able to deliver the rainscreen façade for A3 New Bailey – and with it, Europe’s largest living wall.