"barrier queue management systems"

The Project Aston University Student Union at the heart of the University’s campus has seen a £6.5m investment.  The new, two-story building, home to over 100 student clubs and societies, acts as the social hub for the 13000+ students at the university & replaces the old 1960’s Building. The Universities brief was to incorporate the local area into the project using images of Birmingham City Skyline. The Challenge Offer a full height cubicle system, suitable for the environment and to a specification befittng the digital imagery. Digitally render images onto Laminate and apply to the façade of the full height system. Manage the precise fabrication process through the factory. The Solution  Excelsior’s Flush 30 Cubicle System encompasses a rebated aluminium frame to the doors and pilasters. The aluminium edge detail provides a robust trim and looks innovative within this modern building, an unrivalled system within the washroom market.The images, supplied by the client were digitally rendered onto laminate by Formica Younique and applied to the façade of a full height Flush system.Max McLoughlin, CEO of the Student Union comments: ‘We want the building to make students feel proud to be at Aston University. From a design perspective, we wanted the students to feel fully immersed in life on campus & we are very happy with the result’.

Bok Tower is a transitional steel frame construction built between 1927 and 1929 and houses a 60-bell carillon (set oftuned bells). The tower is 205 feet tall, has eleven floors with the belltowerfrom levels 8 through 11. The Gothic revival architecture has three forms of masonry that adorn the exterior: coquina brick, intricate marble detailing and sculptures clad the steel columns and decorative tile panels. It was facing structural corrosion which C-Probe Systems effectively managed using an ICCP system.

“Venesta's product is both quick and easy to install. This, combined with an experienced CAD and manufacturing team, made them the ideal choice when procuring a washroom package of this size and complexity.” - Marcus Lynes, Shire Integrated Systems. The quality of our specialist healthcare washroom products and customer service was crucial to the success of the project at The Royal London Hospital. The client had total peace of mind, knowing that deadlines could always be met, even when faced with unforeseen problems on site. We appointed a full-time project manager to oversee the surveying, scheduling, and production drawing of every unit supplied.By specifying Vepps, our industry-leading pre-plumbed (IPS) system, installation time was reduced by 50%.Read the full case study for more details.

BackgroundFor the perfect example of architectural excellence which not only delivered an impressive aesthetic, significant environmental benefits, and a more robust structural foundation, but also improved thermal performance, look no further than the eight-storey, three-building Building Safety Fund (BSF) project Devonshire Mansions.Situated in beautiful Eastbourne on the south-east coast of England, Devonshire Mansions were an extremely attractive choice for those wanting stunning sea views and some peace and privacy. However, due to their location in a high exposure area, the buildings were aged and weather-beaten, and required a full overhaul and refurbishment to modernise, align with current safety regulations for high rise buildings, and strengthen the buildings at their core whilst rejuvenating the exterior.Understanding and appreciating K System’s renowned ability for outstanding refurbishment projects, Pavehall contracted K Systems to completely refurbish this residential development and deliver on the following four primary objectives:- Remediate unsafe cladding- Improve the thermal performance rating of each home- Update and seamlessly replicate existing façade features- Deliver a solution with acoustic benefitsOur ServiceIn collaboration with Archiflair Design, Pavehall, and Fullers Plastering, K Systems delivered an industry-leading, insulated façade solution that fulfilled the desired criteria, achieved a U-value of 0.26 W/m²K and resulted in an outstanding architectural structure.The commitment of K Systems team, their continuous communication, in-depth level of reporting, and consistent presence on site not only ensured a perfect refurbishment, but also instilled 100% confidence in the supply chain throughout, showing exemplary levels of customer service.This project is a great example of how K Systems overcame various construction challenges to deliver within the agreed time constraints.The make-up of the façade had multiple protrusions in forms of balconies meaning that every sheathing and insulation board had to be cut to fit. Replicating this without compromising on the strict site deadlines was a challenge but under the great install team and K Systems’ expertise and onsite presence, this was achieved.Additionally, Devonshire Mansions had a problematic substrate and challenging aesthetic deliverables. Working closely with all partners, and utilising digital technology, K Systems mapped out the refurbishment and specified the ideal solution to Pavehall for implementation.Technical Project DetailsAfter a comprehensive scoping process, K Systems discovered that the existing system had a drained cavity build up and when removed, the sheathing boards were compromised by water. With the buildings being high rise, steel frame and multi-occupancy, the industry-proven K Systems Exicco Cavity Drainage EWI System was specified.In the Exicco system, the drained cavity behind the insulation ensures that any interstitial moisture escapes without detriment to the performance of the system. Due to their seafront location, Devonshire Mansions were prone to fierce rain and water exposure, so this system was the ideal choice to ensure any future moisture or condensation build up was allowed out to avoid compromising the substrate or newly installed façade.Once the strip out of the existing façade had occurred, further challenges were discovered – the substrate was far from line and level. This meant that every rail within the newly installed EWI system had to be packed out using steel shims to create a level vertical façade, subsequently adjusting the specified fixing lengths to suit.Some elements of the substrate were high strength concrete incorporating a flint aggregate which proved problematic for standard mechanical fixings. Via K Systems’ on site support, a suitable, more bespoke fixing was specified which ensured proper anchoring of rails and intumescent fire barriers. A swift solution was achieved with no detriment to the construction programme.The newly installed Exicco system was combined with the K Systems M (Mineral Wool) system. This high performing system provides optimal levels of fire resistance and noncombustibility and its installation at Devonshire Mansions meant that the fire classification of the buildings was upgraded to A2-s1,d0 meaning that the development is now compliant with the latest building regulations for all high-rise dwellings in England, further ensuring the safety of residents.Devonshire Mansions is visually impressive with its feature balconies, architectural cornices, ashlar panelling and quoin detailing. It was a specific requirement of the client to remediate the unsafe cladding without losing these exterior design features.K Systems created two specifications; one for the elevations and one for the balconies and provided bespoke detailing to allow them to seamlessly harmonise as one façade. Ashlar panelling and quoin detailing was replicated cost-effectively using varying thicknesses of non-combustible mineral wool insulation which was over-rendered skilfully by the contractor using K Systems Silicone Thincoat render.The more intricate cornice features were all bespoke manufactured using compliant non-combustible materials and integrated into the design with K Systems providing robust detailing to create a water-tight barrier and eliminating cold bridging. Decorative columns were installed at ground level to complete the façade.The eye-catching, waterfront dwellings were finished with Silkolitt+ - a versatile, easy to apply, water repellent, durable, and low maintenance thin coat render, perfectly paired and formulated for use with our Exicco systemOverall, K Systems specified a fit-for purpose, non-combustible façade with a high level of complex architectural detailing using cost effective solutions. The installation process was overseen by our unrivalled site support team who were frequently on hand to solve any issues as they arose.“Working alongside K Systems on a project of the size and nature of Devonshire Mansions was a true pleasure. From initial scope and specification to intricate detailing and innovative finishes, the K Systems team lead by example and made the process and delivery a slick and seamless operation. The refurbishment was a complex case but working together in partnership, we all delivered on excellence, and the beautiful Devonshire development is something we can all proudly put our names to.”James Fuller, Fullers Plastering

Find out why we recommend rafter ventilation slides when using spray foam insulation in pitched roofs where a high-resistance roof membrane is in place. The rafter slide not only provides ease of access to the external roof for future repairs/replacement, when ventilated appropriately, it can be effective at managing moisture.

Roché’s shutters were used throughout the Big Brother house to keep unwanted visitors out and housemates in, safely.Endemol, the production company behind the Big Brother reality TV series, needed a robust physical security solution that could be linked to the building management system and wouldn’t compromise the design of the set. An added challenge was that one of the shutters needed to be especially wide, at 7.8m.Roché provided the solution, installing a number of window and garden shutters, including the i95, as well a shutter for the famous Diary Room. Apart from providing physical security, these shutters also provide heat insulation and a level of soundproofing.

At a Glance:New £253m resettlement prison required complete and secure cabling infrastructureManufacture and off site build of completed chambers reduced onsite labour by one third minimising COVID / H&S risksLighter, recyclable materials cut fuel use, accelerated installation and reduced environmental impactHMP Five Wells has won 15 major industry awardsThe ClientKier (www.kier.co.uk) is a leading UK construction and infrastructure services company, providing specialist design and build capabilities for vital economic and social building projects across the UK. Kier was awarded the contract by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) for a new build resettlement prison in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire – as part of their New Prisons Programme. The aim of the programme is to reform and modernise the prison estate to provide more safe, secure and functional prison places focused on supporting rehabilitation.The ChallengeKier needed a cable access infrastructure that could satisfy the extremely secure access requirements of a prison environment spanning a 36-acre site.Over 1100 components were supplied to ensure a fully secure cable access system with features such as custom cabling.Kier’s goals for efficiency and cost-effectiveness, as well as for environmental sustainability and social responsibility, is in line with their brand values.The site required a simplified installation, reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions solution that would both endure and be recyclable at the end of their life. The benefits of Kier’s approach came to the fore during the COVID-19 pandemic.As Kier’s project director Rob Stanton explains, ‘new ways of working and offsite manufacture were embraced to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on project delivery’.The SolutionUsing polypropylene products from Clark-Drain, via subcontractor Mitchellson, significantly reduced the weight of the components as compared to traditional concrete. This removed the need for lifting equipment, reduced the on-site labour required (and the attendant health and safety risks), and dramatically shortened the installation time on this £253 million project.From a sustainability point of view, too, these lighter components scored highly, not only in respect of reduced fuel consumption and end-of-life recyclability, but also in terms of provenance, robustness, and therefore long-life durability.Clark-Drain also made several prior visits to site to assess the project requirements, and, based on these early engagements, added further value by designing, building and deploying, in relatively short timeframes, two new chamber bellmouths, to protect below-ground cabling. The bellmouths enable cables to be easily routed within the inner chamber walls during installation by site operatives, but also enable ducts to be securely housed and connected, inside the chamber walls, prior to concrete backfill being applied during installation. Clark-Drain manufactures over 70% of its products inhouse, including the completed chambers, which were manufactured and built offsite at its yard in Yaxley, Peterborough.Demonstrating its commitment to social value and equitability throughout, Kier also involved its Digital Apprentice trainees in the project, and created a project bank account to ensure easier and quicker supplier payment.Outcomes and ResultsThe figures speak for themselves:Cable access for the project is being assembled 22% faster than if traditional construction methods had been usedLighter materials meant that one third less labour was required on-site to install the chambersSurveys were carried out 70% faster using dronesMillions are being saved on post-project snagging using cloud-based review and QA technologiesThe project has won 15 major industry awardsAnd as for the environmental benefits, long life and recycling apart, the polypropylene chambers are only 38% of the density of concrete, greatly reducing the project’s fuel consumption and carbon emissions.Rebecca Wade, Bid Director at Kier, describes the project’s successes: ‘Thanks to the deployment of agile digital methods and next-generation suppliers, we are delivering efficiently and cost-effectively, whilst respecting our commitments to our society, our community, and our planet.’For more information on how Clark-Drain can help your business deliver robust, cost-effective, environmentally responsible cable access solutions, no matter how big or small your project, get in touch.

The Project Refurbish existing washroom facilities at Lloyds Head Quarters.Work along side Swift Building Services to complete the project.Specification lead by Pinnegar Haywood Design.   The ChallengeProduce a range of Cubicles, Duct Panels and Vanity units to create an innovative, vibrant space.Solid surface on site jointing and polishing of oversized, bespoke Solid Surface Vanity tops.Manage installation from drawings to completion with a dedicated Contracts Manager. Complete full, detailed survey & provide guidance on discussing feasibility at planning stage. The SolutionExcelsior Select Range in a kaleidoscopic array of colours has created a stimulating, revitalising washroom environment. A valiant use of colour conveyed onto the Vanity Unit completed the installation; Magma Range 100% recyclable Compact Density Fibreboard frame with 12mm Hanex Top to suit semi recessed bowl with a 250mm upstand and a 200mm downstand finished off with 20mm square edge access panels. This Analogous colour scheme proves a break from the norm for washrooms and is testament to the Architect and the combined skills and expertise of Excelsior’s trusted team that resulted in such an accomplished finish.combined skills and expertise of Excelsior’s trusted team that resulted in such an accomplished finish.SpecificationProduct Range: Select 20mm HPL 1960mmDoors: 20mm High Pressure Gloss Laminate (Multiple Colours)Pilaster: 20mm High Pressure Laminate G059 Gris OragePartition: 12mm Solid Grade Laminate G059 Gris OrageThese Systems Are Available In The Following Finishes:Natural Wood VeneerHigh Pressure LaminateHigh Gloss LaminateIronmongery: Aluminium

The Project New two storey Sixth Form facility to house teaching, exhibition and social learning spaces.The facility is intended for use by the school and the local community & hoped to be a hive for activity in the local area.  The Challenge Propose and deliver a system suitable for a heavy use environment whilst also offering a commercial style space expected by the wider public.  Durability, ease of cleaning and maintenance are key drivers in the decision process as these areas will be used for extended periods and by a diverse sector.  The washrooms are likely be used by all visitors and it is paramount that the facilities compliment the building and impress the user. The SolutionExcelsior Flush 30 Cubicles with Stainless Steel Ironmongery create an opulent seamless wall within the washroom space Solid Surface bespoke vanity troughs with full height mirrors above open up the space and add a commercial fit out touch.Wall panelling has been included to completement the systems and enclose the WC working mechanisms whilst providing ease of access to the onsite maintenance teams.The project was managed by the contracts team at excelsior and delivered to an extremely high standard by our trusted team of fitters.

The two access control systems from SIEGENIA for house and apartment entrance doors leave no desires unfulfilled: the keypad and the fingerprint scanner combine elegant design with maximum ease of use and efficient access management for the building. They are therefore an ideal solution for the increasing demand for smart home applications in private housing construction. The two systems are equipped with a comprehensive access log, simple, clear user administration as well as a rechargeable battery-buffered timer. The emphasis is on ease of use – e.g. with a simple touch of the finger on the fingerprint scanner or the standardised equipment with integrated WIFI and Bluetooth technology. This enables both the use of the smartphone as remote control as well as convenient control and administration with the aid of the SIEGENIA Comfort app. 

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

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

“We used Venesta’s SGL range for a proven high quality, durable product from a trusted provider that we have worked with for years.” - Mark Norton, Chartered Construction Manager, Gray Baynes and Shew. A full height cubicle range, Unity provides a modern, durable washroom environment, with low floor clearance for maximum privacy. Emergency release mechanism indicator bolts were an ideal choice for education washrooms, where safety is paramount. Our Vepps (IPS) pre-plumbed panelling system, with Ideal Standard sanitaryware fitted and tested in our factory, made installation quick and straightforward without the need for specialist onsite skills.

Even during normal circumstances managing the security within the workplace comes with its own challenges. 2020 has been exceptional in more ways than one; the majority of employees are working from home or on flexible working hours and companies are now looking into the viability of reducing their office space and subletting space within their building.

BackgroundBelfast City Council designed Walkways Community Centre with the local community in mind, providing them with places to both work and play. In this £1.37m project, the original portable modular building was demolished and replaced with a new 575 square metre build. The two storeys include a creche and soft play area, a 250sqm sports hall and a series of multipurpose rooms for meetings and courses aimed at the local people. Main contractor, McKelvey Construction led the project and worked alongside Michael Whitley Architects to design and deliver the most appropriate solution for Belfast City Council and the local community. K Systems provided on-site technical support and installation guidance throughout the build which resulted in delivery of a modern, aesthetically pleasing facility that achieved the target U-value of 0.18W/m ² K. Our ServiceHaving originally specified rainscreen cladding, K Systems technical team worked with the architect to design a bespoke engineered system with the drained cavity to suit the metsec frame. Regular site visits from our team ensured support was available throughout the build. The Centre is located on a busy street with limited surrounding space, so we had to manage a very congested, condensed site with deliveries planned and arranged by appointment only. We worked closely with McKelvey Construction to manage such challenges and ensure that local access for residents was uninterrupted, as well as ensuring the overall safety of the site area. From design advice through to installation, we offered a partnership approach which ensured a smooth installation process with minimal disruption, and the delivery of a fantastic community centre for the local area to enjoy. Technical Project Details Originally rainscreen cladding was specified for the Walkways project. However during the construction process, due to spiralling material costs and budget restraints, this was deemed too expensive so alternative solutions had to be sourced. It was decided an external insulation system would be used and a ventilated cavity system was required, as this provides a secondary defence in commercial buildings like Walkways. The K Systems Exicco E drained cavity façade system was specified as it ticked all the boxes. Exicco provides excellent protection and can offer an excellent fire rating of up to A2-s1,d0, providing high levels of fire resistance and non-combustibility. The drained cavity behind the insulation in the Exicco system will ensure that any interstitial moisture will escape without detriment to the performance of the system. As EWI was not originally specified for the project, no metsec frame had been designed. This is a crucial element for the Exicco system, which meant a bespoke metsec frame had to be designed specifically to suit our system. The Exicco E system for Walkways used Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) insulation boards that were mechanically fixed and attached to 12mm BBA Approved sheathing boards to create a 25mm drained cavity. EPS boards are extremely light-weight and the system offers a great fire rating of B-s1,d0. It is a high performing, economical system that generates high levels of thermal performance and ensured the target U-value of 0.18W/m ² K. was achieved. For the finish, Silkolitt+ silicone renders ensured a clean, crisp contemporary finish that offers protection to the exterior of the community centre. The flexibility of this finish provides resistance against cracking and increases the durability, ensuring a long-lasting finish for Walkways. 

Artesian House is an eight-storey building comprises 73 mixed-tenure flats, located in Bermondsey, London that is managed by the Hyde Group, alongside a large number of private leaseholder.Artesian House features a distinctive curved design, and so frequent design meetings were crucial to the success of the project. To ensure compliance and thermal performance for the project, three ROCKWOOL® products were specified, namely for cavity barrier protection and insulation.With this in mind, ROCKWOOL Rainscreen Duo Slab, ROCKWOOL SP Firestop Slab and ROCKWOOL SP Firestop Open State Cavity Barrier (OSCB) was installed throughout the building.

The Project  Friargate One is a 150,000 sq ft, 13 storey, low energy building forming part of a £700m project to create a new business district in Coventry.  The building sets the standard for the remainder of the 37 acre Friargate scheme that will include 13 more office buildings, two hotels, homes and shops all set to transform the area around the train station. This project is the largest development in the West Midlands Combined Authority.   The Challenge Deliver a product to satisfy the architects design & meet the highest standards offered within the industry. Provide a full range of accessories to compliment the system. Manufacture bespoke boxed out mirror units complete with rebated lighting strip. Ensure the system is installed to highest standard to create a seamless fronted wall of cubicles and superloos across varying floors.  The Solution Floor to ceiling Flush 44 system installed throughout male & female washrooms and unisex superloos situated over two floors.   The system encompasses a 44mm MR core with a hardwood rebated edge detail. The overall finish is modern and sleek creating a seamless flush wall of cubicles with complete privacy and comfort for the users.Close management of each phase from site survey through CAD drawings, call up and manufacture ensured we had complete control of the project and were able to accurately survey the areas and install the seamless system desired by the client.SpecificationProduct Range: Flush44 HPLDoors: HPL Bonded onto 44mm MR Core, Formica Graphite F7837. Hardwood rebated edgesPilaster: HPL Bonded onto 44mm MR Core, Formica Graphite F7837. Hardwood rebated edgesPartition: Partition: HPL bonded onto 38mm MR Core, Formica Folkstone F7927Ironmongery: Stainless SteelAvailable Finishes:These Systems Are Available In The Following Finishes:• Natural Wood Veneer• High Pressure Laminate• High Gloss LaminateAccessories Product Range W/C'sSpecificationProduct Range: AccessoriesMirror Backing Panels: Blanc Menuires B015 with 4mm Safety Backed MirrorsWaste Bins: Prestige Waste BinOther:Paper Towel HoldersWaste BinToilet Roll HoldersSoap Dispenser

“Wow - the children are so excited to have new toilets. The school has had the same toilets since 1930 and they were in desperate need of replacing. The children now take pride in the facilities and love the wash trough hand basin. The impact on all children having nice facilities to use is amazing. The problem I have now is they don’t want to leave the washroom!” - Sue MacAskill, Marian Vian’s Facilities Manager The biggest challenge was the time constraints, due to school term times. Specifying our industry-leading pre-plumbed panelling system Vepps® helped reduce installation time by 50%.

Minimising disruption for patients, staff and visitors was a priority for the University Hospital of North Tees team, responsible for the refurbishment of a vast area of new flooring in the hospital’s main public corridors. As such, Forbo Flooring Systems supplied its adhesive-free Modul’up Compact sheet vinyl – a resilient flooring solution that was easy to install and could be walked on immediately after installation. Built in the 1960s, the hospital in Stockton has seen much maintenance over the years and visually, had become dated. Therefore, the aim of the refurbishment was to bring the hospital interior into this century to create a more pleasant and comfortable environment for everyone. As well as speed of installation, the hospital team’s specification priorities were cleanliness and hygiene, especially as these main corridor routes lead on to clinical areas. But also, the spaces experience high footfall and are tested to the limit with heavy medical equipment and trolleys being moved around; the flooring had to perform well in terms of durability. “We were looking for something different and when our Forbo Area Manager, Jon Rogers, put forward the Modul’up solution, we identified a few advantages that appealed immediately,” explains the Project Manager for the University Hospital of North Tees, Michael Jones. “Firstly, speed of installation. It’s a vast area of flooring to cover. In fact, we’ve not done an area this size before, all at once. As you can imagine, we were apprehensive with it being such a dynamic environment. It’s hard to co-ordinate one installation let alone having to snag or worse re-lay. We liked the fact that Modul’up is tried and tested to meet all the current standards, but is also much easier to install and is easy to clean. “Secondly, from a subfloor maintenance angle we saw great benefits. The building was constructed in the 1960s, so in certain areas from time to time there are repairs to be done to the subfloor beneath. “With Modul’up you can cut the weld, roll back, fix the floor and re-lay with no patching required. If you have subfloor issues with normal vinyl floor you would have to lift it with the adhesive. This often causes damage to the vinyl and if patching is required then potentially you don’t get a match.” Phase One of the project involved the installation of 1,573m2 of Forbo’s Modul’up Compact in Natural Oak in the general circulation areas and corridors. Creating a fresh, contemporary and airy feel, the wood-effect flooring has been selected to complement the corridor walls, which feature a split wall colour scheme with the lower half painted in a strong, modern graphite grey and the top half in a lighter, almost white, grey.  Also commenting on the specification, Drew McColgan, managing director of Rimick Flooring, the installer, said: “We have worked with the hospital for 15 plus years. The building is old and we often have issues with the subfloor; installing a loose lay product makes it easier for us to access the subfloors for repair without having to patch the vinyl back. It was also quicker for us to install in an environment where time is of the essence. The client is delighted with the appearance of the vinyl too.” The hospital team, Rimick Flooring and Forbo worked together to ensure a smooth install as Drew explains: “Forbo came to visit the site a number of times to meet with us and the client. They attended meetings with screed representatives too and provided expert support throughout with samples aplenty; including a decent sized part roll so the fitting team could familiarise themselves with the product. Jon Rogers, and the customer support team (particularly Jason Livingstone) were there to help us every step of the way.” Drew talks through the installation process and hints at the longer-term benefits: “During the night shifts, the team lifted the existing linoleum, screeded the existing surfaces using a non-ammonium smoothing compound and fit (with set-in skirting detail) from there. Modul’up helped us to save approximately an hour a night, “Going forward, there’s no need to patch areas should there be a problem with the subfloor, and it negates the need to use an adhesive, which is good as it’s odour free and means the floor can be used immediately.”  Providing primary protection at the main entrances, Forbo’s Nuway and Coral entrance flooring systems have been installed too – helping to prevent dirt and moisture from being traipsed indoors. Forbo’s new Coral interior was also installed to complete the hospital entrance flooring system. Looking ahead, Michael Jones, University Hospital of North Tees Project Manager concludes: “So far, we’re impressed with Modul’up. There are other buildings on site which now may also be considered to be refreshed with this loose lay product.”

The National Flooring Company, a Degafloor Ltd approved installer, have received another complimentary review following a kitchen refurbishment on the 23rd floor at a popular 4-star hotel in Manchester. Making the most of the quieter, New Year period, the hotel decided to upgrade their kitchen floor. Having worked at other locations for the popular hotel chain, The National Flooring Company were contacted to provide advice and following a successful proposal, were asked to complete the refurbishment. The kitchen, which is situated on the 23rd floor, required meticulous planning to ensure that works could be completed with minimal disruption to the hotel’s guests. The existing vinyl floor within the kitchen had become worn and brittle and sections were beginning to lift, causing a potential trip hazard. The vinyl floor was removed to expose the tiled finish underneath. Any loose tiles that had debonded from the floor were also removed and infilled with Degafloor Deep Fill, quick curing repair mortar.The National Flooring Company laid a scrape coat, embedded with a promesh reinforcing membrane, prior to the installation of the Degafloor Full Broadcast System (FB). The Degafloor FB system is broadcast with rounded aggregate to provide an anti-slip finish and retains this feature even in wet conditions to ensure employee safety is always maintained. As with all Degafloor systems, they are seamless and impervious, ensuring the floor will not lift, as previously experienced with the existing vinyl floor finish. Degafloor MMA resin flooring systems are fully cured within 2 hours of installation, allowing the hotel to resume normal kitchen operating procedures shortly after completion. MMA resins have a distinctive odour, but with the correct management, installations can progress with very little disruption. The National Flooring Company used the kitchen extraction system and sealed all doorways to contain and manage the odour.The project was completed to the satisfaction of the Chief Engineer, Hilton MCR, who commented on how good the floor looked. “The restaurant being on the 23rd floor presented a logistical challenge.  However, after careful planning and consideration of our hotel operations, The National Flooring Company completed the installation efficiently and to a high standard.  We were impressed with the service from start to finish.”

Take a look at the various systems on display at our showroom based in Clerkenwell, London - including a range of both solid and glass partitions.

Newton System 500 provides a complete waterproofing solution for a boathouse situated on the River Thames, installed by Newton Specialist Basement Contractor Stonehouse. Newton Waterproofing Systems were contacted to provide a solution for a delightful boat house on the River Thames.The property originally had a wet dock but this had been back filled and capped with a concrete floor. The client wished to use the ground floor as a bedroom, but during a recent flood the water level had reached 500mm internally.Newton System 500 provided the ideal solution, as it works by redirecting the water, rather than trying to hold water back – which would be impossible under such pressurised conditions. Newton 508 Mesh was chosen for the walls, Newton 520 to the floor with a Newton Basedrain ring around the perimeter. Two Newton Titan Pro pump systems were used, which included a battery back up system.Newton System 500 was installed to this property by Newton Specialist Basement Contractor Stonehouse BasementsRather than holding water pressure back, therefore, it was accepted that the river would penetrate the structure and would be pumped out. The system is designed so that ingressing water is depressurised by the Basedrain and then moved around the Basedrain ring to the two Titan sump chambers. The chambers each had 40mm discharge lines exiting the structure. Both pump systems had non-return valves so if the river rose over the level of the pipe the pumps would still be effective.The full waterproofing system was installed in a little over a week. The major test came when the River Thames rose against the property to a depth of over one metre! The Newton System 500 waterproofing system coped with the water ingress as designed. At the height of the flooding, all three pumps in each sump chamber were operational. The system proved to be fully successful.

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

The Enterprise Lab at Imperial College, London, benefits from the installation of a DORMA Variflex moveable wall system, allowing the room to be divided into a breakout area and workspace. Partitioning experts, Style was closely involved during the design stage of this project as the basement room is located at the bottom of a tight staircase, causing access issues. “We recommended Variflex as it is such a flexible and adaptable system,” said Julian Sargent, Style’s group managing director. “Most importantly, the panel faces are manufactured separately from the frames, allowing each element to be manually manoeuvred down the stairs”.

‘‘To meet the rigorous demands of this type of environment, all facilities in our academy have to be robust, efficient and fit for purpose. Centurion has fulfilled these requirements, and has given an excellent finished appearance in all washroom areas.’’ Graham Turner, Facilities Manager, Tudor Grange Academy.Solihull Council, having specified Venesta in the past, chose our Centurion Privacy range for the six male and female toilet facilities situated throughout the campus. This gave the academy the long-lasting quality that they were looking for.Installation was during school holidays which meant there were strict time constraints, so Vepps, our industry-leading pre-plumbed paneling system, was the obvious choice for Tudor Grange Academy.Read the full case study for more details.

The purpose: Energy savings of £¼million over 20 years at just two of its sites are predicted to be achieved by London Fire Brigade through effective roof refurbishment using our Roofing Solutions. The brigade identified that the roofs at Erith and East Ham Fire Stations were in need of refurbishment. Numerous intermediate repairs had already been undertaken. An efficient solution was needed to help London Fire Brigade optimise best value in its asset management and reduce its requirement for planned- or unplanned- maintenance.London Fire Brigade therefore turned to Currie & Brown construction management consultants to oversee the design and execution of the refurbishment projects under a contract management framework agreement in place between the two organisations. We was called in to assess the roofs and advise on a course of action. Data driven roof condition reports from surveys were taken across the two premises. We highlighted that the roofs were beyond economical repair and needed new waterproofing and insulation- a U value of 5.00W/m2K was discovered in one roof area, against the Regulatory threshold of 0.35W/m2K and best practice 0.18W/m2K. Our solution: We advised that in the main, overlaying of the existing roof covering with CP-20 Paracoat Cold Polyurea Liquid System (warm roof) application was the most-efficient and cost-effective solution.The over-laying using the CP-20 system satisfies London Fire Brigade’s policy of preference for flame-free, with no roof replacement needed this minimised waste to landfill.Our Approved Contractor CWG Group won the contracts to undertake the upgrading, working to Langley’s detailed individual specifications for each site.At East Ham Fire Station, four main roof areas plus a separate ancillary building were addressed.LangGuard free-standing safety rail was installed around the perimeter of roofs 1 and 4.The final touch for the field roof area was provided with Paracoat Fast SF slip-inhibiting finish to agreed walkway areas.At Erith Fire Station, the refurbishment involved upgrading two roof areas including a rooftop tank room and adjoining canopy of corrugated PVC over the Station building, and a separate stores roof.

Project: Jungfernstieg, Hamburg, GermanyClient Art-Invest Real Estate Management GmbH & Co. KG, Köln

Harmer Drainage high performance Roof Outlets and SML above ground drainage were recently specified for a new, forward thinking children’s hospital in Liverpool.The Alder Hey Children’s Health Park is a large £250m project developed to improve the paediatric medical facility and enhance the experience of both patients and staff. The aim is to set the hospital as a new benchmark for the delivery of paediatric care in the UK and around the world. It includes six wards, a large critical care unit, 16 theatres and a host of clinical services, together with shops and cafes.

he NHS Trust commissioned Breath Energy to review its estate, recommend and manage a programme of works to significantly reduce energy costs and CO2 emissions.Central to the works was the external upgrade of the main Epsom Hospital premises, the Wells Building, to improve thermal performance and address failings in the building fabric. The existing roof areas had failed and were allowing water ingress, potentially not only damaging the building fabric and energy efficiency but essential hospital equipment.Langley’s project team had to devise solutions that enabled the whole building exterior- facades and roofs – to be upgraded while the seven-storey hospital remained operational. Added to the complexity, the project began while Covid-19 restrictions were in force.Our solution: Detailed roof surveys prior to work commencing enabled us to identify potential problems and advise on effective solutions in advance.We recommended full strip-up of the roofs, as the existing had perished beyond economical repair. We advised new construction with TA-25 W Flat Roofing System on the main roof, stairwell roof and plant room areas. The TA-25 system is independently certified by the BBA (British Board of Agreement) confirming Broof (t4) classification. It also has LABC assured accreditation to provide support with regard to building control. The inclusion of insulation meant the new roof achieved the current requirement of 0.18W/m2K.While a full strip-up of the two terraces and balcony would also have been the preferred solution, the depth of work would have been impractical as the hospital’s operating theatres were below, and in use. Our solution was to remove the existing top layer and replace with PC-20W Liquid Roofing System and install breather vents to address moisture within.

It's always been a pleasure to work with Forbo Flooring. Thanks to Forbo's many years of experience, they always manage to propose the right flooring with a good price/quality ratio, regardless of the project or the application.For this project we looked at maintenance-friendly floors that are easy to clean - an important consideration in a working environment. That is why we chose Tessera carpet tiles and Allura Flex. The resulting floors accord perfectly with the look that DPG aspires to, while the good acoustics and luxurious textures are a welcomed extra.

London's leading workplace caterer, The Good Eating company, has opened its first commercial Cafe in the city. Requiring an interior design that reflects its core values, the sophisticated charm of Forbo Flooring Systems' Allura Flex Wood luxury vinyl tiles, along with its ease of installation and maintenance, has helped to complement the stylish and relaxing dining environment. Giovanni Insalaco, Managing Director at Nova Design, commented: "The Good Eating Company has a history of over 20 years, and it was important that who they are, what they do and what they represent as a business was reflected in the restaurant. While it's called "Café GEC", it is in fact a restaurant, offering a bistro-style menu in relaxed and stylish dining environment to suit the vibrant area aroung Lower Thames Street. "I chose Forbo's Allura Flex LVT planks in the Grey Autumn Oak shade for its ability to replicate the look and feel of natural wood. By specifically opting for a herringbone installation, this helped to add dimension to the space and bring the floor to life. This has worked really well in contrast with the plain counter and solid coloured furniture in the restaurant. Having never used Forbo's products before, it really has been a game changer both in terms of design and ease of installation. We've had lot's of questions about what the floor is and received plenty of compliments - it's fantastic."

Triton Systems supplied waterproofing systems specified by waterproofing design specialists, Ink Technical Services, for the upgrade to a below ground car park in North London. BS 8102 (2009) recommends the involvement of a waterproofing specialist at the design stage of any below ground waterproofing project. Involving an expert at this stage also minimises the risk of system failure in the future.

The ProjectThe completion of Birmingham City University - Curzon B & Royal Birmingham Conservatoire forms part of the University’s £260 million dedicated investment into new and advanced facilities.Designed by Associated Architects to provide 100,000 square feet of additional facilities the £31 million Birmingham City – Curzon B Building officially opened in January 2018. The facility offers teaching and learning space for 3,000 students and staff.The ChallengePropose a robust cubicle system suitable for a heavy foot fall environment. Deliver all products compliant to BIM Level 2. Manufacture bespoke vanity troughs in a wave design. Manage production, delivery and installation to the high standards set by the industry.  The Solution As a local preferred supplier Excelsior were engaged by Birmingham based Willmott Dixon to supply and install the washrooms. T-Line Cubicle Range offered the perfect solution, with an extruded aluminium frame, inclusive of pilaster and headrail, coupled with Solid Grade Laminate Doors and Divisions ensure a robust cubicle that will stand the test of time.

Decorative and hardwearing school flooringArthur Mellows Village College in Peterborough has recently benefited from a new science, media and IT facility, together with extensive refurbishment of existing buildings and school flooring.The school flooring refurbishment required a decorative, yet durable, system for a variety of areas across the busy site. Designed using different colour combinations and stainless steels trims, the Degafloor Flake System was installed to a total area of 5000 sq m.Within the existing buildings, Degafloor systems were installed over existing finishes, enabling projects to be completed quickly and at lower cost.For areas where enhanced slip-resistance was required, the Degafloor Full Broadcast system was chosen as it to offers enhanced protection in high risk areas such as school kitchens and toilets. The project was completed by The National Flooring Company Ltd.The outstanding two hour cure time of Degafloor systems ensured that each installation was completed on time and with minimal disruption. Pupils and staff alike were thrilled with the flooring."Degafloor systems provide very durable and attractive floor finishes that enhances the appearance of the College environment."- Gary Wentworth, Site Manager, Arthur Mellows Village College

As part of their ongoing relationship with Imperial College London, Newton Specialist Contractor A.P. Gooch assessed and waterproofed 11 Victorian brick vaults beneath the streets of Kensington, London, after the existing competitor ‘waterproof render’ failed.Imperial College London is a world top ten university, and it's top-class educational facilities in Central London are constantly used by multidisciplinary students, including doctors, and nurses, for their studies. It was therefore crucial for AP. Gooch to perform the work whilst also creating minimum disruption to the college students.Following a full assessment of the vaults, A.P. Gooch decided that the best option was to install the tried and tested ‘failsafe’ Newton System 500 cavity drainage membrane solution in order to depressurise, capture and safely manage ingressing water away from the building. A.P. Gooch also committed to carrying out the entire installation at night in order to cause as little disruption as possible to the College’s students.By installing Newton 508 membrane with strategically placed Newton MultiPlug fixings, the system remained sympathetic to the historic structure beneath. Newton Basedrain was also installed in order to channel captured water to one of four Newton Titan-2 sump chambers, the compact size of which made them ideal for use in a structure with such tight size restrictions. Each chamber also contained primary and backup Newton CP400 pumps to ensure that there will always be a safe means of removing captured water from the building.Now fully protected by a maintainable system, compliant with waterproofing code of practice BS 8102:2009, all 11 vaults are now completely dry, providing safe and healthy individual study rooms for the medical students at Imperial College.

The new £100m Heatherwood Hospital in Ascot, Berkshire has been designed by leading architects BDP to put the wellbeing of patients and staff at its heart. The new state of the art building comprises a multitude of resources, from treatment rooms to operating theatres, day and out-patient facilities and specialist x-ray, MRI and radiology services. The overall design of the hospital has been greatly influenced by the woodland that surrounds it, with our aluminium fenestration systems framing the expansive views and maximising the use of natural light.The ’open’ design of the building has been created using our slimline SF52 aluminium curtain wall system, with the ground floor areas benefitting from our robust SFG shop front glazing system and integrated SD commercial doors. To provide safe and secure access, our SPW501 aluminium commercial doors were chosen for the main access points and our thermally efficient SPW600 aluminium windows were used throughout. All our aluminium fenestration products were expertly fabricated and installed by our supply chain partner Soundcraft for main contractor Kier.The use of our energy-efficient aluminium windows, doors and curtain walling complements the new hospital’s other sustainable design features which include photovoltaic solar panels and a green nature roof to manage rainwater absorption. Our technical team and locally based architectural advisor were also on hand to provide specification support and guidance, including help with U-value calculations and Part L compliance.The new-build hospital replaces the older dilapidated building that will be demolished to make way for a new housing development.