"external insulation of external walls"

Located near Taunton, Somerset, the Halcon Centre provides short breaks, with 24-hour professional care, for up to 18 adults who are physically disabled or have sensory loss. SureProtect Design® bespoke wall cladding was installed in the main corridor at the centre featuring a row of imitation panels, that have been designed to look hand-drawn with a marker pen to offer the homely feel the centre was looking for. In addition, the Halcon Centre further increased the corridor walls’ protection by installing Gradus’s CGH5090 High Impact PVC-u Corner Guards and WGS200 Wall Guards, both in colour Gravel.

800 square meters of Black Webnet creating an innovative Webnet Green Wall ,providing shade and year-round temperature control for this contemporary office building.The innovative design features our Webnet stainless steel mesh system suspended from roof supports to create a strong, secure and long-life structure for plants to climb up. Planters at first floor level encircle the building to provide low level greening, as well as a base for the climbers.Bringing nature to this urban landscape, the green wall not only makes the office look spectacular, but also provides a habitat for wildlife and significantly improves the building’s carbon footprint. The shade and evaporative cooling of the plants also help to cool the building in summer and insulate it in winter, helping to improve thermal efficiency and save energy costs.

BackgroundWith stunning southerly views across to the Isle of Wight and also westerley along the Solent to Hayling Island, Portsmouth and the Millenium Tower, Marineside, a development of three-storey properties at Bracklesham Bay, is a dream location for anyone to live.However, whilst a prominent beachfront location comes with spectacular sunsets and unrivalled tranquillity, it does leave buildings highly exposed and prone to weather damage.This was the case with the Marineside development which showed signs of high coastal corrosion and were in severe need of regeneration both aesthetically and internally to address thermal underperformance.K Systems teamed with CBG, Envirorend SE, and Harrington Design to complete the low-rise refurbishment project, with three main objectives:- Remediate problematic substrate- Improve thermal performance for the benefit of residents- Revitalise a tired and unattractive exteriorAs with all projects, K Systems began a detailed scope and specification process with full involvement from all parties, including deploying digital technology to provide an inspirational viewpoint for the client to understand what the refurbishment would look like at completion.Our ServiceFollowing extensive planning, K Systems brought the client’s vision to life and created a beautiful collection of revitalised waterside homes on the banks of Bracklesham Bay.The refurbishment of Marineside wasn’t a straightforward project and required comprehensive scoping to ensure optimal delivery and 100% satisfaction levels amongst current residents.Therefore, it is a notable triumph for K Systems to have delivered a successful project, within budget, without delay or compromise on quality, that not only met but exceeded the requirements and expectations of the client.Each structurally sound, aesthetically pleasing dwelling boasted excellent thermal performance properties, achieving a U-value of 0.30W/m²K, allowing residents to benefit from more thermally efficient homes and experience a reduction in energy consumption.K Systems in collaboration with CBG, Envirorend SE and Harrington Design delivered beautiful, clean, crisp, aesthetically attractive properties, each with a protective exterior finish which will provide resistance to the elements for years to come.Technical Project DetailsOnce the existing façade was removed it was clear that the block substrate had high level corrosion due to the harsh coastal environment it had endured since being built in the 1940s.Multiple areas of the three buildings had to be completely removed and replaced using a medium density block that achieved superior pull-out test results. This was a recommendation by K Systems which enforced confidence with not just the client but the homeowners too as the best way to ensure longevity of the buildings.The removal also revealed that the substrate was uneven and unsafe. K Systems identified that extensive dubbing out was also needed with these buildings. Dubbing out meant the insulation boards were installed line and level giving a crisp and professional finish.The Marineside buildings were solid block construction making them extremely inefficient and presented an expense to the homeowners during winter months due to insufficient thermal performance.Utilising its years of unparalleled expertise, K Systems specified the industry-proven Mineral Wool insulation system for the project to address the aged façade and significantly boost the thermal performance of the building.K Systems Mineral Wool insulation (a mat of rock fibres which prevents the movement of air) has an industry-leading ability to generate exceptional thermal performance. That made it the perfect choice for the Marineside refurbishment as it would combat the heating issues faced by residents whilst retaining the solid foundations of the existing building.Other technical benefits which made the K Systems 110mm Mineral Wool system the ideal specification for this refurbishment include:- its level of fire resistance and non-combustibility, ensuring the building met all safety regulations required for residential buildings in England- its excellent acoustic properties, ensuring coastal noise absorption further enhancing the peaceful and tranquillity of the area- its environmentally friendly composition as it is free from gases with ODP (ozone depletion properties) or GWP (global warming potential)Due to the coastal location and exposure to the elements, it was vital that this refurbishment guaranteed total water tightness. K Systems worked closely with the roof installers ensuring that the parapet details were correctly detailed making the system as a whole watertight.The exterior finish was just as important as the internal construction and detailing. The Bracklesham Bay area has a level of prestige and the aesthetics needed to reflect that. K Systems finished the Marineside complexes with a silicone thin coat render, which is extremely breathable and resistant to the elements, in shades Limestone White and Granite. This completely transformed the aesthetic of the residential blocks making them much more appealing to potential dwellers.Envirorend SE commented:“ We secured the refurbishment works at Marineside , for a good client and works started in January 2022. The scope of works was to make the 3 blocks more energy efficient. Situated directly on the beach, the location made the install very challenging as the weather was not very forgiving at that time of year. The existing substrate was all over the place so a lot of effort was put in to get the walls looking line and level while staying within the remit of the specification. Works were completed in July 2022 and to a very high standard for all to see. “

Fitzwarren Court is of one the highest buildings in Salford at 23 storeys and was a major refurbishment requiring an aesthetic and thermal upgrade. The building had originally been earmarked for demolition as part of a wider regeneration of the area, but plans were halted when Salix Homes secured funding to modernise the block.The Casey Group were appointed as main contractor for the work. New kitchens, bathrooms, doors and windows have been fitted to all 135 apartments. Our approved installer Hamilton Building Contractors were contracted by The Casey Group to complete the exterior wall insulation and rendering which had a metamorphic effect on the building’s overall appearance and thermal performance.The 1970s building was a pre-cast concrete panel system. The panels were of a ribbed surface design and were fitted together creating a recessed detail which was a unique design feature. Alongside Hamilton, we worked to transform the façade aesthetically creating a modern building, with a safe, stylish and thermally efficient solution. A complete revamp which has given the building a new lease of life and delivered safe, modern and energy efficient homes for the residents.We worked in collaboration with Hamilton Building Contractors to ensure there was minimum disruption to the residents of Fitzwarren Court, who remained in their homes while the work was carried out.K Systems produced a bespoke high-rise specification which included various zonal wind load calculations optimising the longer-term safety and durability of the design. Various factors were taken into consideration throughout the installation process including a recessed windowsill and anti-perch detail (preventing birds from settling on the sills).Our focus throughout the project included safety, quality, thermal efficiency and service.Paul Turner, Director at The Casey Group, said:   “Successful EWI schemes, especially on high-rise tower blocks, demand the highest level of Project and On-Site Support from design through to inspections, with technical guidance and warranty support. K Systems are expert partners in this field.”Discover more on how the Fitzwarren Court transformation project won at the 2021 INCA awards here: https://k.systems/news/kilwaughter-minerals-wins-big-at-prestigious-national-industry-awards/

Located along a winding mountain road in Queenstown, New Zealand, the Kingspan panels installed on this project have provided state of the art facilities for skiers at The Remarkables skifield base. The new addition to the centre is comprised of a three level base building that is home to numerous activities, including gear rental, a snow sport school and a restaurant.Due to the local climate and surroundings, the panels installed needed to be resilient to adverse weather conditions. Trapezoidal Wall panels deliver excellent thermal efficiency, providing the correct level of thermal and structural performance required in this extreme environment.

The implementation of the Future Homes Standard (FHS) policy to move away from fossil fuels to heat UK homes again highlights the need to rethink how well insulated properties could and should be. Most new build and refurbished homes could be insulated to a much greater standard than the current Building Regulations specify whilst providing more floor space, through more widespread use of advanced vacuum insulation panels (VIPs). This insulation technology, which was pioneered by Promat more than a decade ago, delivers superior thermal performance without the thickness usually associated with panels for cavities, flooring, roofing, balconies and terraces.

Higher Potential is a north London based charity that helps disenfranchised young people, with projects designed to divert them away from anti-social behaviour and embrace education, helping them to develop life skills and reaching their potential.Within the two-storey building the area was created for young people to express themselves through dance, drama and music video production.To achieve this, the building required a suitable acoustic treatment to avoid noise leakage whilst creating an acoustically neutral space for music production.ROCKWOOL Sound Insulation Slab and Acoustic RockFloor were implemented.

Combining various types of moveable wall within the same building is fast becoming the latest trend for architects aiming to create the ultimate flexible space solution. One recent example is the London offices of Anglo American, a leading global mining company, where partitioning experts Style installed a complex arrangement of moveable wall systems to divide a single large space into four individual rooms.To achieve the level of adaptability required, Style utilised both solid and glass Dorma Hüppe Variflex semi-automatic moveable walls, as well as vertically rising, fully automatic Skyfold Classic 60 moveable walls.This combination enables the entire space to be re-configured quickly into smaller or larger meeting rooms, with the 57dB acoustic rating of the solid moveable wall, 52dB of the glass moveable wall and 59dB of the Skyfold delivering such an exceptional sound barrier that all rooms can host busy meetings without causing any disturbance between them.Anglo American is a leading global mining company whose products are the essential ingredients in almost every aspect of modern life. Its portfolio of world-class competitive operations, with a broad range of future development options, provides many of the future-enabling metals and minerals for a cleaner, greener, more sustainable world.Style worked with architects, MCM, and contractor, BW, to create wide-ranging flexible space in the ‘Office Zone’ and ‘Innovation Hub’ located at Anglo American’s offices in London. Within the configuration, the Skyfold walls meet with Dorma walls in T shapes, turning this very large room into four individual rooms accessible via a corridor, created when the glass moveable walls are in position.By integrating four fully-glazed pass doors into the glass moveable walls, there is ease of access into each of the meeting rooms from the temporary corridor.“This is a superb example of how a range of complementing moveable walls can combine to deliver truly first class, flexible office space,” said Julian Sargent, Style’s group managing director.“The final configuration gives Anglo American so many options as to how to use the space and is a real showcase for anyone visiting the building.”

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

baseTherm® PROJECT Contact your local team baseTherm® for these amazing floor insulation results:📞+353 (0) 87 333 0683📞+353 (0) 87 223 2456📩 sales@basetherm.com📲basetherm.comClick here to view more finished jobs on our GALLERY:https://lnkd.in/e9zh-nwxbaseTherm® is an NSAI Agrément certified BEPS liquid floor insulation, complete with its own EPD.It's produced and installed on-site by our local team using our Mobile Floor Insulation Factory - without waste or fuss.💡baseTherm® KEY BENEFITS:👉 Seamless, void-free poured floor insulation👉 Factory-produced on-site, without waste - using our Mobile Floor Insulation Factory👉 Rapid pumped installation👉 Non-combustible👉 Ultra-lightweight with acoustic benefits👉 Highly insulating, from 0.041 W/mK👉 National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) Agrément certified👉 EPD Certified – available to download on Irish Green Building Council's platform EPD Ireland👉 Available for spec on NBS Source and as BIM Digital Objects

The Garden State Hotel is an iconic building in Melbourne. Accoya was chosen for a feature wall in the balcony dining room – a VIP space that looks out over the rest of the venue. Charred Accoya was used for the feature wall to add to the secluded and private feeling of the venue. The Accoya cladding was lined with a polyurethane finish. Other sections of the feature wall were finished with Woca internal maintenance oil. Accoya was also chosen due to its incredible finish and its ability to adapt to the unique and fresh looks offered by modern architecture.

Gradus has supplied and installed a range of bespoke wall protection solutions throughout the new Same Day Emergency Care building at the Countess of Chester Hospital. Fitted by the Gradus Contracts Team, the system includes wall guards, corner guards and combination handrails.

London Wall Place is a new development, with more than 500.000m2, located in the heart of London, between Moorgate and Barbican. This development is comprised by two commercial buildings and will add a large green area to the city. The largest building has about 300.000m2 and rises to a height of 12 floors, and the remaining building, with about 12.000m2, has 16 floors. For this project’s façade weatherproofing, three Effisus solutions were used: Effisus VAP (vapour barrier), Effisus Breather+ (breathable membrane) and Effisus 2Bond DS (double-sided solution for sealing between two surfaces).

The school underwent a complete refurbishment in September 2015 and chose to use a very pale blue paint scheme throughout most of the building. Within 3 months the areas within the school that see heavy traffic, including corridors and the dining hall had begun to show signs of scuffing and wear, due to the pupils knocking against the walls with their bags. The site manager at the school was concerned by the level of damage and began to consider wall protection products to combat the problem. Gradus supplied and fitted the school with wall protection solutions to prevent further damage.

After considering various products, PABIA Consulting engineers chose FIRETITE as the ideal solution for upgrading the Newtown EUROSPAR building complex in Cobh, Co Cork. FIRETITE met the insulation requirements, fire regulations, and could be retrofitted externally with minimal disruption to tenants and customers.

AboutThe Dubai Metro Red Line, at 52.1 km (32.4 mi), is the world’s longest driverless single metro line. The planning of the metro was in response to a rapidly growing population and severe traffic congestion to relieve motor traffic and provide infrastructure for development.Project/doors200 Insulated Roller Shutters, both fire rated and non-fire ratedThe ChallengeThe Hart contract to manufacture over 200 industrial roller shutters to Dubai Metro, one of the most advanced urban rail systems in the world, was secured through the Al-Futtaim Group, who in turn were awarded by Chadwick Technology Group. Hart not only manufactured the doors but provided training to JT Metro JV, Dubai Metro Project.The SolutionManufacture over 200 Insulated Roller Shutters, both fire rated and non-fire rated for the Jebel Ali, Rashidiya and Al Qusais train depots. The shutters are designed to work in very sophisticated and complex systems including depot protection when driver-less trains are in operation.The SuccessThis was Harts largest export order to date and came on the back of large orders for Hart products for Heathrow’s T5 and the international railway terminal at St. Pancras. Once again Hart successfully delivered on a large scale project due to the engineering knowledge and project management experience.The ReviewYou have shown a high level of technical competence and professionalism in dealing firstly with the lengthy approval process, mainly due to the critical importance of the shutters for the automated operation of the Metro system, and secondly with the various site issues that invariably arrive on a project of this scale and fast track nature. Peter W. Mansell, Project Director, Chadwick SEC

350 square meters of wall designed, manufactured and installed by Grass Concrete Limited. A large scale hospital redevelopment site with a few added complications saw a need to construct an earth retaining wall but with high level services to one elevation, a pinch point to another and then for good measure the need to include a footbridge.

Built-in 1871 as a police station with four cells and accommodation for the constable and his family. This imposing Grade II Listed property has been renovated to combine the best of traditional materials and craftsmanship, with new technologies. Achieving the target U values without adding too much thickness so the period features could be retained. Caroline and Peter approached SuperFOIL to find solutions for their project and they chose SuperFOIL SF40 to bring the property up to the high thermal performance they required. SuperFOIL offered solutions to exceed the required u-values under building regulations. Caroline chose 2 layers of SF40 in the roof area to achieve 0.14 and a single layer of SF40 in the walls to achieve 0.23 keeping the structure thin enough to retain the period features that were so important to this historic building.

The archive’s single-storey extension was clad in Corten steel Hook-on cassettes on both the walls and the mono-pitch roof. These weathered steel panels naturally oxidise to form a patina veneer, giving the façade a distinctive “rusted” look that shifts from a vibrant orange before settling to a dark red after several years of exposure to the elements. Architect: Hugh Broughton Architects

Year: 2019Architect: Maber Assembly:·        Walls – APL StrongBak™ with external vertical APL profiled cladding Size:·        Approx 23,000 m² of StrongBak™ & APL external wall profiles Special Features:·        StrongBak™ system requested direct from client·        A follow-on project from the new BMW Mini factory in Oxford, which APL supplied as the same construction assembly and area·        Building 23m high·        All materials delivered to site within a 6-7 week period Building Location:·        Swindon, Wiltshire

A London court house has been extensively renovated and converted into a boutique hotel.

A range of premium and high performance products has been installed on a stunning new beachfront home on the Isle of Wight, featured on Grand Designs.

Kooltherm K108 Cavity Board has been installed on the first phase of houses constructed in the major redevelopment of The Poets in Swinton

Heriot Watt is shaping the future with its new Global Research, Innovation and Development building.

The Protec System was used to waterproof the domed green roof areas of this striking, sustainable house development which was featured on Chanel 4’s Grand Designs. With an ambitious vision and a tight budget, Robert and Milla Gaukroger set about transforming a dated 1980’s house overlooking Lake Windermere into a state-of-the-art, eco-conscious home. Since the house lay in beautiful hillside surroundings, in order to blend into this setting, the domed roofs of the house were to be covered with a wildflower meadow mix to provide a green roof construction.The SolutionThe Protec System was chosen as a waterproofing membrane for the roofs as it is ideally suited for green roof applications. Lightweight, flexible and highly durable, the system can easily accommodate structural expansion movements and is tough enough to resist root penetration. The Protec system was applied to over 350m2 of domed roof to provide a long-lasting waterproofing membrane.The key reasons why Eastleigh chose Protec are the same reasons that has seen it become one of the fastest growing cold-applied liquid roofing systems in both the new build and refurbishment markets. Combined with the timber cladding to the verticals of the building, the finished aesthetics of the development blended seamlessly with the surrounding areas.A warm roof build-up that can be made waterproof at multiple stages:For larger projects the Protec system can be made temporarily waterproof at two stages prior to the application of the full waterproofing system. The first stage is upon installation of the sealed, aluminium-faced vapour barrier.The second phase follows the reinforcing of the foil-faced insulation board joints with Protec resin and taping mat. This enables a much more controlled approach to the installation with a greatly reduced chance of rain causing disruption and damage during the works.Highly flexible membrane:Regardless of the size of the roof, Protec forms a homegenous membrane, without a single joint or seam and without the need for any expansion joints.RapidCure technology for quick installation:The application of Protec as a liquid, through to the curing process where a solid, tough membrane that can be walked over, takes only 30 – 60 minutes. This enables large sections of the roof to be fully completed in a short space of time.Installing the Roofing SystemsThe Protec System provided waterproofing to all flat roof areas as well as the extensive parapet wall sections. The roof areas were made up of two designs: the Protec Warm Roof System (approx 7,500m2) and Protec applied to concrete as part of an inverted roof design (approx 1,000m2).The roof installation was carried out with a planned, phased approach that was synchronised to the wider construction schedule. For the warm roof areas, the first stage was to fill the troughs of the structural metal roof deck with acoustic insulation infills that will dampen external noise within the leisure centre. Next, the crowns of the deck were primed ready to receive the self-adhesive vapour barrier.The use of a high-performance aluminium vapour barrier not only eliminates the risk of condensation within the roof, but also provides temporary waterproofing protection, which is extremely useful on larger works such as this.The Polyroof RES Insulation boards, which comprised of a two layer system totalling 170mm to achieve a U-Value of 0.14 W/m2K, were bonded using high-performance PU adhesive to the vapour barrier. Following the wind uplift calculations it was determined that mechanical fixings were not required for this application – making for an extremely rapid installation. As you can probably imagine, fixing through 170mm of insulation into the crowns of the metal deck can be a tricky and time-consuming task.A key advantage of using a tongue and groove insulation system is that the finished surface of the roof is smooth and level without any unsightly board steps that can also lead to standing water issues. The insulation board joints were sealed using Protec resin with Polymat Taping Mat 450 which, in addition to providing additional strength to the joints, also creates a temporarily waterproof layer.For the inverted roof sections, Protec was applied directly to the primed concrete/screed surface. The membrane was inspected by Polyroof Technical Services, signed off and then covered with inverted roof components. An interesting fact when using Protec in inverted roof situations is its incredible durability performance – as tested by the BBA, Protec “can provide an effective barrier to the transmission of liquid water and water vapour for the design life of the roof in which it is incorporated”.Monitoring and CompletionThroughout the duration of the contract, Polyroof Technical Services carried out regular site visits that were reported back to Interserve as part of Polyroof’s free-of-charge contract monitoring service. This enabled the client to keep up-to-date with the progress of the roof installation in detail and also provided peace of mind that the original specification was being closely followed and implemented.Polyroof worked closely with the Roofline Group during the installation, enabling the challenges were identified and solved in an efficient and coordinated manner – saving the client time and money.

The PROMAT ULTIMA® VIP range of ultra-thin vacuum insulated panels from Promat UK utilise next generation materials technology to deliver the highest levels of thermal insulation, without the bulkiness associated with traditional insulating products. With standard thicknesses of between just 10mm and 50mm, PROMAT ULTIMA® VIP panels are ideal for applications where space constraints pose a challenge to delivering on thermal goals. It is an effective insulation for a wide range of applications including structures, flat roofs and facades with the benefit of being manufactured by Promat in ISO 9001: 2015 and ISO 14001:2015 factories for consistent quality assurance and traceability.

XPS Insulation and Dry Screed Board Acoustic FlooringKing’s College London is one of the Top 20 Universities in the world, according to the international world 2013-14 ranking. They are the fourth oldest university in England, holding over 25,000 students. As well as this, the college includes more than 10,600 postgraduates and over 7,000 employees. The College also has research earnings of nearly £587million overall annually.The Architect specified a combination of Soundis Dry Screed Board and XPS Insulation, both of which are recyclable and amongst the most effective insulation materials available for acoustic performance and thermal performance in this student development.

As part of a drive to improve energy efficiency and reduce fuel poverty, Camden Council specified Q-Bot Underfloor Insulation which uses a robotic system to spray foam onto the underside of the floor. The 48 properties included various housing types, differing in age and size. The energy savings achieved by the upgrades were modelled in SAP using elemental U-values for the individual floors and the airtightness test results of each property. This enabled the energy improvements to be calculated against a range of scenarios with alternative retrofit measures.

The Flat Glass Skylight allows you to enjoy natural daylight. The skylight will provide you with a clean appearance in the external roof scope, the toughened outer glass pane has a ceramic edge coating giving you an immaculate and stylish finish. The range comes complete a 160mm high vertical insulated PVC kerb/ upstand. The slim aluminium frame has a internal thermal break allowing it to be energy efficient whilst also reducing the risk of internal condensation. The skylight comes complete with fixing screws which once installed are fully concealed beneath a flush cover creating a sleek and tidy external appearance.

A residential developer approached Hush Acoustics after an acoustic test conducted on their project in St Leonards on Sea failed to achieve the acoustic compliance level needed under Approved Document E of the Building Regulations.The problem stemmed from a separating wall between two bedrooms which was constructed using a timber stud wall and had an overall thickness of 170mm. Its acoustic design was adequate on paper, but there was one issue that had not been correctly treated.One of the rooms measured 37m3 and the other 29m3 in size, with one notable consistent feature being a screed laid over a concrete floor.An airborne sound insulation sample test was carried out with no floor covering in place and this revealed a result of DnTw+Ctr 31dB.Levels of ‘flanking’ sound were significant - this meant sound was passing under the separating wall via the floor screed. The solution proposed by Hush Acoustics was to install Hush Mat 15 over the screed floor in both rooms.The effectiveness of this solution was evident in the follow-up test result of DnTw+Ctr 44dB. Whilst this result would be regarded as an average performance in most other types of buildings, the improvement here from a poor DnTw+Ctr of 31dB to 44db showed that Hush Mat 15 had delivered significant improvement and provided a solution to flanking transmission sound sources.The ensured the residential development satisfied the requirements of Approved Document E.

THE PROJECTThe Wall of Colour project features a small bank of colourful mailboxes using an in front / out front posting and retrieval method. The small bank of mailboxes are wall mounted with additional support from a set of cantilever support stands to hold the mailboxes steady and eliminate the need for a support table or legs to be used.Each mailbox has been engraved with numerical identification and infilled with a contrasting white colour. The mailboxes were banked prior to despatch to the client, allowing for an easy, quick and trouble-free installation.PROJECT DETAILSProject Type: Private ResidentialProduct: COM 2 mailboxInstallation: Wall MountedColour: Sky Blue (RAL 5015). Moss Green (RAL 6005). Melon Yellow (RAL 1028). Carmine Red (RAL 3002).Accessories: Numbered engraving. Cantilever support stands.

Whitby Hospital is a Community Hospital providing inpatient, outpatient and community services. Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust provides community and out of hours services to Whitby and surrounding areas, and currently has a population of approximately 14,000 residents. A selection of Gradus Wall Protection systems alongside Gerflor flooring was specified for this critical ProCure 22 project.

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.

Standing tall in a prime location at the entrance to the Salford Quays – one of Greater Manchester’s most vibrant and prominent media and culture hubs – Anchorage Gateway is here to make a statement. The 250,640 sq ft, 29-storey residential high-rise, completed three months ahead of schedule, is set to be the tallest residential brickwork building in the UK.  Yet, behind this traditional brick façade finish is a design that demanded a modern approach to diverting moisture from the cavity to the outside of the building, using construction methods far more efficient than the conventional. Key information Completion date September 2023 Sector Residential Developer Cole Waterhouse Main Contractor Domis Construction Façade Contractor Kinlan Brickwork Delivery Architect Jon Matthews Architects  Products used Siderise CT Cavity Tray  Design and specification Representing the gateway entry point into Salford Quays, the build-to-rent (BTR) Erie Dock Apartments (Eda) development replaced a vacant four-storey office block of 1990s construction with a building designed to offer a truly contemporary residential experience. Hosting 290 apartments of various sizes and private amenities such as co-working spaces, a fitness studio, a screening room, and more, it was important that the building’s exterior reflected a feeling of home and community, giving it a sense of place in this rapidly developing part of the city.  The building’s L-shaped footprint is emphasised by the use of stepped massing, with the slimmer block extending to the top of the building and external rooftop terraces at the crown of each ‘block’. Each elevation is constructed from pale-coloured brickwork, supported by an SFS System and concrete core works, giving the building a solid and striking, yet clearly domestic feel in an area dominated by glazing and cladding.  Moisture management is a fundamental element of any masonry construction, and cavity trays must be installed to ensure that any rainwater entering the wall cavity through the external brickwork is directed away from the inner structure, reducing the risk of internal damp and mould. Main contractor, Domis Construction, and brickwork contractor, Kinlan, had previously been using the traditional approach comprising metal cavity trays. However, in their search for a more efficient method that could improve the speed and cost of delivery without compromising on quality, they came across Siderise CT Cavity Tray.  After carrying out their due diligence, the team engaged the Siderise Site Services to deliver training onsite, which included a benchmark installation. It was then that Domis Construction and Kinlan realised the huge labour and time-saving benefits Siderise CT Cavity Tray could offer and that ‘it did what it said on the tin’. The factory-engineered system was subsequently trialled on a section of another Salford project before being put forward to the fire consultants and building control officers for the high-rise Anchorage project.  The CT Cavity Tray achieves an A2-s1, d0 reaction to fire classification to EN 13501-1, is BBA certified and can comply with NHBC, LABC and Premier Guarantee warranty requirements.  David Ashworth, Project Manager, Domis Construction: “Siderise CT Cavity Tray has been a gamechanger for us. We’d been using traditional all-metal cavity trays, site-formed and pre-formed. Even though we’d used Siderise Cavity Barriers and Firestops before, we were somewhat unsure about this single-fix tray and insulation combo at first.   Nevertheless, we researched the product, confirming that it met regulatory compliance criteria and seeing the potential benefits in terms of time saving ability, labour cost reduction, and scaled-down site complexities associated with specialist tools, equipment, and segregated workshop areas for onsite fabrication.”  Installation and inspection Over 3,200 units of Siderise CT Cavity tray were used on the project, helping to realise installation benefits that carried real value for the project. On previous projects where traditional cavity tray solutions were used, the installation teams would need to share masts with the bricklayers on a 50/50 circa ratio. This meant that the bricklayers would take longer to complete their job, due to the time it would take to form and fit the cavity trays, as well as other products, ahead of them.   By using the pre-engineered Siderise CT Cavity Tray, which combines a flexible aluminium tray with non-combustible insulation, the installation team was able to install this lightweight element much faster with just a cutting knife and sealing tape for joining at details such as corners or windows. The requirement for specialist equipment, isolated onsite workshop zones, vast site storage facilities, soldering, sealants and installing insulation as a separate fix and was eliminated, enabling them to free up mast usage, with an estimated ratio of 70/30 in the bricklayers’ favour, speeding up the build programme.   David Ashworth, Project Manager, Domis Construction: “Working with our brickwork contractor, Kinlan, the Siderise Site Services team came down and delivered an in-person practical training programme before the install and it was during this in-depth session that we started to realise the operational advantages it would have. They have also been supporting us continually on the build, checking how we are installing their product and giving us any advice necessary to ensure a top-class delivery.”  Summary Anchorage Gateway demonstrates, with tangible evidence, how traditional building methods can be improved using modern products that have been engineered and tested to meet the demands of contemporary construction, allowing the creation of beautiful brickwork buildings without sacrificing on speed or quality of build.  

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

One of the fastest-growing aerospace companies, EnduroSat, has collaborated with ESCREO to transform the casual and boring walls into writable ones with whiteboard paint. For them, as for every fast-growing company, it is very important to incorporate all the new technology in the office environment. They have an innovative approach not just to the pure business side but also to the premises where the space magic happens. Everyone can write down a new idea the moment it comes to their mind. This is the magic of ESCREO and ESCREO writable walls. The generation of ideas is more facilitated than ever but even more is the presentation of those ideas to all concerned parties. Efficiency is improved and the workflow becomes much smoother.EnduroSat shared with ESCREO how having writable walls all over the office is helping them to fulfil their mission. You can read the full interview to also learn what they have to say about their choices, thoughts and future.