"leadwork contractors"

The Hilda Besse building at St Antony’s College, Oxford, one of the country’s best examples of Post-War architecture, has been refurbished by award-winning architectural and heritage consultancy practice Purcell. As part of a sensitive renovation to enhance the original architecture and ensure the building’s sustainable future, Junckers solid wood flooring was fitted throughout the common rooms, kitchens and the dining hall. Informed by historic drawings and photographs, Purcell specified a dark wooden floor, reverting to the original finish found in the building. Junckers Black Oak plank flooring was fitted in a bespoke geometric pattern designed by the architect, complementing the elaborate ceiling features. Junckers’ Approved Flooring Contractor V. A. Hutchison Flooring sampled the bespoke pattern on site and created all the joints and cuts with their own bespoke methods, specially adapted for such intricate work. The result is an elegant floor fit for purpose, offering both a grand impression and a durable floor surface. Junckers Black Oak is made by mimicking the natural process known as ‘bog oak’ where timber left submerged in bog conditions takes on a rich, dark colour. The colour is drawn deep into the wood, unlike a surface stain. This unique method enables sanding and refinishing of the floor without loss of colour. Specifying a solid hardwood floor for the Grade II listed building ensures longevity of both design and use. A Junckers floor has a long lifespan and will last for generations. Part of the refurbishment and conservation work included improving the building’s sustainable performance as well as the wellbeing of staff and students. A solid hardwood floor from Junckers is one of the most sustainable flooring surfaces available. Junckers has completed EPDs for its wooden floors to ensure all elements of the supply chain, from raw material sourcing to production and distribution, adhere to strict sustainability standards. Wood is naturally low in embodied carbon and can easily be recycled at the end of its long life. Wooden floors contribute to a healthy indoor environment by maintaining an even temperature and counter-acting static from electrical appliances. All Junckers wood floors carry the Danish Indoor Climate Label, ensuring there are no chemical substances in the flooring which adversely affect the air quality in a room. The main contractor for the project was CBRE. 

Emma House, Romford, a residential apartment block built in 2007, needed a new waterproof membrane for the entire roof area after the single ply membrane, installed just 10 years earlier, had failed. The specification by our clients asked for a cold applied system to be used during the refurbishment to minimise disruption to residents, while providing a permanent waterproofing solution.The ChallengeCore samples taken of the roof build-up showed there had been extensive water penetration which required urgent remedial action. Impossible to repair, the complete roof system had to be stripped back to the roof deck by Proteus Waterproofing’s approved contractor. The approved contractor installed a new Proteus Pro-System® BUR (built up roof system) incorporating Proteus Pro-Therm insulation, to provide a new seamless roof – an area of some 150 square metres – offering a 20 year guarantee.Why Proteus Pro-System® was specifiedProteus Pro-System® was installed using no heat, providing a seamless waterproofing membrane on completion. Proteus Pro-System® is a high performance, seamless and cold-applied waterproofing membrane for flat and pitched roofs. It cures to provide completely seamless waterproof protection and has excellent thermal and UV stability, making it suitable for use in all climates.Proteus Pro-System® does not brittle, deteriorate or discolour with age. It uses atmospheric moisture to trigger its cure process and unlike conventional polyurethane systems can cure under water, without gassing or foaming. It also becomes resistant to rain damage and may therefore be applied in relatively poor weather, without any subsequent loss of performance or durability – making it ideal for Emma House.About Emma HouseEmma House consists of 14 one-bedroom and 19 two-bedroom apartments just minutes away from the centre of the market town of Romford, which offers shops, services and a wealth of bars and restaurants. When first built in 2010, Emma House offered young professionals an opportunity for affordable housing close to London and has remained at the forefront of the property market in Romford ever since.

RESIN BOUND FOR RBG KEW WALKWAYAddagrip Terraco are delighted to have been involved in the Broad Walk project at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew with the installation of over 3000sqm of our innovative resin bound porous paving system, Terrabase Rustic.SURFACING REQUIREMENTSAddagrip Terraco were approached as the UK ‘s leading manufacturer of resin exterior surfaces and together with approved contractor, True Grip Ltd, carried out extensive surveys and put together several specification options and costs that Kew could consider. Kew selected Addagrip’s new patented resin bound surfacing system Terrabase Rustic as it offered a larger 6-10mm stone size providing the rustic looking finish that Kew required and could be installed over the existing macadam with minimum environmental impact and disruption. Drainage was another key requirement and the larger stone size of this bound system provides maximum porosity.As the Terrabase product was relatively new, the surface had to meet many exacting performance criteria put forward by Kew which Addagrip was able to substantiate. After 9 months of discussion, True Grip Ltd were appointed to work via main contractor Kier Facilities Services to install the Terrabase Rustic Oak finish. Despite challenging weather conditions and site restrictions due to the public use of the main areas, True Grip Ltd installed 3,163m2 over the entire Broad Walk, following behind Kier Facilities Services who were installing extensive drainage services and brick edging.The new Terrabase Rustic surface is hard wearing, low maintenance with no loose stone and provides a seamless, natural rustic pathway which looks very much at home in the grounds of London’s historic Royal Botanic Gardens.This exciting project has created the longest double herbaceous borders in the UK. The 300m long borders either side of the Broad Walk from the Orangery to the Palm House Pond, were planted with swathes of vibrant summer flowering perennials, grasses and bulbs to form a spectacular new horticultural feature. Planting continued into early summer 2016 to complete the project.Image credit: Richard Wilford, RBG Kew

A series of 10 newly built affordable Council houses in Montrose, Scotland has been fitted with a high-performing variable-permeability vapour control layer from the A. Proctor Group. Procheck® Adapt is designed to protect the building fabric from the potential risks of condensation and act as an effective airtight barrier.The project, led by Angus Council comprises of a mix of one, two and threebedroom properties which will be built with energy efficiency in mind, providing residents with high-quality affordable homes which will be low-cost to heat and run.Jason Noble, Architect with Angus Council commented on the requirement for a high-performance solution to achieve the desired levels of vapour control and airtightness. “We required a high performing vapour barrier and air tightness layer, that could be installed on site by our contractor and achieve our performance specification. We wanted an effective vapour barrier and airtightness layer that when installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and in combination with the timber kit construction would provide an effective airtightness rating of 4 when tested.”Contractor, Andrew Shepherd Construction proposed the use of the Procheck Adapt available from the A. Proctor Group, who has been serving the construction industry for 50 years with an extensive portfolio of technically advanced thermal, acoustic and membrane products.Thanks to its unique design, the Procheck Adapt membrane offers variable permeability which adapts to changes in humidity levels and allows the structure to dry out in the summer and in sunny days during spring and autumn while protecting it from moisture overload in the winter. This is possible because the membrane adapts its vapour resistance to the environment i.e., vapour tight in the winter and more vapour open in the summer.This ensures that the building fabric is protected from damaging moisture levels during cold, wet winter months, and allows the fabric to dry out effectively in warmer, drier months. The introduction of Procheck Adapt will ensure that it provides a high level of protection throughout the lifespan of the properties.Procheck Adapt has a translucent structure which eases fixing to structural frames and in combination with its integral tape allows for a fast installation time. Procheck Adapt is suitable for a variety of commercial and residential applications and provides airtightness to the structure as well as vapour control.

AstraZeneca Case StudyProject: AstraZeneca HQ, CambridgeProduct: Fade acoustic plasterQuantity: 4200m2Main Contractor: MaceSubcontractors: CMS DanskinArchitect: Herzog & de MeuronValue of Overall Project: £50 Million +Introduction: AstraZeneca Acoustic Plaster Case StudyAfter starting the project with Skanska as lead contractors, in 2019 AstraZeneca switched to their current partnership with Mace to complete their multi-million pound HQ. The building is designed with research facilities at the forefront, and is sound insulted using Fade Acoustic technology.About AstraZenecaSince its inception in 1998, AstraZeneca has been a trailblazer in the fields of medical and scientific research. The Swedish-British company has over 90 locations worldwide and is active across Africa, Europe, Asia and North America. Their headquarters in Cambridge will act as a hub for global innovation, and their patents improve the lives of millions each year. Most recently, their Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine was the first COVID-19 vaccine to be approved in the UK, and has since been adopted worldwide. The company is also at the forefront of cancer research, partnering with Cancer Research UK to improve survival rates.About MaceMace Construction has been developing ideas for clients across five continents for the past 30 years. Their project list is extensive: they’ve worked on everything from airports to the world’s largest observation eye, and closer to home with a renovation of TV’s Coronation Street. Like many industries, the COVID-19 crisis has hit the construction industry in unexpected ways. Instead of seeing this as a setback, Mace have innovated their work-from-home technologies, introducing drones and remote technology to future-proof their business. The company is also future focused in their view towards the environment, implementing green ideas across all projects. Recently Mace were lead contractors on 70 St Mary Axe, the curved skyscraper currently under construction in central London. As well as boasting an attractive semi-elliptical design, by using double-glazed wall cladding and vertical shading fins, the skyscraper also boasts incredibly low carbon emissions.About the projectAstraZeneca’s UK based headquarters have been in the pipeline since 2013. Originally valued at £330 million, soaring material costs and increased investment in new technologies raised the cost to £500 million by 2019. The new headquarters is an immense glass-based structure at the center of Cambridge’s Chesterford Research Park. Herzog & de Meuron’s triangular design was chosen to encourage easy movement around the building, and glass panels are used liberally throughout to “promote ‘visible science’, according to AstraZeneca. The central piazza is a nod to the sprawling courtyards of Cambridge University, providing a communal space for socialising and the sharing of ideas. The headquarters will act as a central hub for both research and business, linking commerce and science under one glass roof.About Fade acousticsFade Acoustic plaster is a flexible alternative to traditional acoustic solutions. A fibreglass substrate provides a sound insulating layer which is then sprayed with 3mm of plaster. This extra layer gives a plastered-like finish, completely disguising the panels beneath. This invisible layer makes Fade Acoustics products ideal for preserving integrity of the building’s original design. The modernist Shenzhen Sea World Culture & Arts Center, for example, was completed using Fade Acoustics plus+ to provide seamless insulation that showed off the building’s angular modernist features. The product can me made to fit any type of structure, applied to concrete or timber substrate, or can even be attached direct to grid using Fade Special Washers. Fade Acoustic products have been proven to be durable and humidity resistant, receiving an A+ rating from French regulatory bodies for creating safe indoor environments.Why Was Fade Acoustics chosen?Mace had previously used Fade Acoustics Plus+ on Tottenham Hotspur’s new stadium, chosen for their hassle-free installation and wide range of colour options which allowed for flawless blending with existing plaster. After this success, Fade Acoustics were an obvious choice for AstraZeneca’s HQ. The project’s complex geometric structure required a soundproofing technique that could adapt to the building’s unique shape without hindering design. The HQ required a bespoke thickness due to the installation of sprinklers. This meant the team had to create a custom sized acoustic board by altering fibreglass substrate to 30mm, instead of their regular 25mm or 40mm. Due to travel restrictions during the COVID-19 crisis, the chosen product also needed to be installed quickly without compromising on quality. CMS Danskin were able to acquire the material quickly, meaning WRR UK, long-time contractors with Mace and the project’s approved installer, could start installation within two weeks. Fade Acoustic’s flexible and easy to install product meant the team could install 4200m² of Fade Acoustic plaster in the final two months of the project. The project is due to be unveiled later this year.

Kids Planet Day Nurseries currently provides childcare for over 7,500 children across their 54 settings in the North West and Midlands.Last September, the nursery opened a new setting in the commercial hub at the centre of the new Winnington Urban village housing development.Twinfix were approached by principal contractor Short Construction to design, manufacture and install two Brise Soleils for the nursery.The Brise Soleils served two purposes, while providing additional shelter in conjunction with the canopy over the play area and the entrance to the building, they also enhanced the aesthetics of the area and complemented the building’s exterior.The South West elevation spans 14 metres and the North East elevation spans 17 metres. Both structures comprise of 200mm ellipsoid aluminium blades, every 300mm and are 3m and 4m height. The aluminium is powder coated to RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey.The structures were installed in time to protect students and staff from the summer sun this summer and for years to come.

HLM, the architectural practice had a very high-end, designer lead project at Park Lane London, which required bespoke components mixed together with standard products forming a warrantied bathroom solution for the client. 15 types of different bespoke XPS shower trays were created for this project and used across the 460 rooms spread over 3 phases.240 bespoke XPS niches were installed and in 210 cases substructure sets were used to reach the required 100mm installation height thus allow for a straightforward replacement of old baths with showers without having to modify the existing pipework.In all bathrooms, wedi XPS building boards were used in 12.5mm thickness for walls and 10mm thickness for floors.RESULT: Thanks to the sub-contractor Milk Leisure, an Approved Partner of a leading manufacturer of XPS shower/bathroom systems, the client received a 100% waterproof bathroom with a 15 year manufacturer’s warranty on the whole installation. 

Sertus were asked to work closely with Ark M&E, the project M&E contractor, to ensure our dampers and roof vents were installed in the safest way.Project Name: Barking WharfLocation: LondonSector: ResidentialClient: EcoWorld LondonInitial Brief:Sertus were asked to work closely with the Ark M&E. Of particular importance to the client was to ensure that fully compliant products were used within their smoke ventilation system, especially our EN 12101-8 smoke dampers. View these here.Challenges:To ensure that the project programme was adhered to, Sertus applied Lean manufacturing principles and came up with some unique efficiencies, for example combining the smoke damper and the environmental damper in one housing to reduce installation time on site, and to reduce the amount of builders' work for the client.Outcome:This project is a large phased scheme over 4 blocks and was finalised in 2021. Sertus manufactured & supplied products swiftly and efficiently, allowing this project to be completed well on time.

Stargroves, a Grade II listed building, is a manor house and estate in Hampshire. Its best known for being the home of Mick Jagger in the 70s. The on site recording studio has been used by The Rolling Stones, Rod Stewart, and Bob Marley, adding to the rich history of the site.Other bands who have recorded on the grounds include Bob Marley, Iron Maiden and Status Quo.The project entailed the refurbishment of the internal swimming pool area. Main contractor SizeBreed Construction, gave the project to Soundis, to resolve the persistent reverberation issues within the area. Crucially, however, they didn’t want a solution which took away from the character of the building.This was perfect project for the seamless 25mm Spray Plaster Boards. This system can be applied to virtually any surface, including straight and curved walls, dramatic angles and arching domes. Which was particularly helpful on the outside the pool area. Acoustic spray plaster solutions offer a more flexible, discreet alternative to traditional acoustic solutions, such as suspended ceilings.

Located within easy distance of the University of Edinburgh, this six-storey development provides 52 studio apartments for the city’ vibrant student community.Designed by Yeoman McAllister, the stone clad building complements the existing architecture of the area, while the high-performance aluminium fenestration package from Senior Architectural Systems provides a modern and compliant solution.Senior’s thermally-efficient SPW600e aluminium windows, installed with Louvre Guards in front of the opening lights, have been used throughout, combining a robust and secure construction with slim frames to frame far-reaching views of the city and ensure effective levels of daylighting. The main and communal areas benefit from Senior’s slimline SF52 aluminium curtain wall system and low U-value PURe® Commercial Doors.Senior worked closely with main contractor Clark Contracts and fabricator partner GG Glass to deliver the scheme which has received wide praise for the quality of its accommodation and convenient links to several of Edinburgh’s main university campuses.

Mixed-use urban development with unique shaped balconies and terraces.Designed by London architects Squire and Partners and developed by JTRE, Triptych Bankside is a complete urban quarter situated in an iconic location close to several London landmarks. This, coupled with its striking design, make Triptych Bankside a signature project for MyDek.Triptych Bankside’s unique shaped balconies required careful design, layout and installation guidance. MyDek supplied Class A2 non-combustible aluminium decking for the balconies and terraces, and offered support to the client and contractors throughout the process. The contemporary finish of the decking complements the design of the building and provides a fully non-combustible future-proof solution."Working with MyDek was seamless. We had issues at the time with the changing regulations in terms of non-use of combustible materials, façades and balconies. MyDek were instrumental in helping us develop our proposals and implement the same use of the material across the balconies and terraces." - Nick Chamberlain, Senior Design Manager

When a high-end development of a new residential student accommodation building in Gloucester city centre required over 3800m2 of high-quality flooring, they turned to Gerflor for a complete solution. The world class flooring installed would include Gerflor’s Tarasafe Impression and Tarasafe Standard vinyl safety flooring, Taralay Impression Comfort heterogenous flooring, together with their stunning Creation 55 LVT and Gradus Boulevard 5000 high performance Secondary Barrier Matting Tiles.Cityheart Living’s accommodation in Cityheart’s Blackfriars Residence is brand new and offers high specification and secure student accommodation to the University of Gloucestershire.Midas Group, a multimillion-pound construction group with seven offices around the southwest and Wales, had been appointed by the developers Cityheart Living as main contractors but went into administration in 2022. Vitruvius who are a team of project and construction management consultants swiftly proposed a Construction Management approach to restart the project and were appointed to take over the project.

Following successful works for the London Underground, Koster were asked to design waterproofing systems for use inside live tunnels for the Glasgow Underground. Following close analysis of the structure, surrounding ground and constant use, a bespoke design was settled upon which involved an area injection system as the main form of waterproofing protection.Koster Injection Gel G4, an acrylic injection material was selected, mainly due to the fact that it has an extremely low viscosity and will not contaminate ground water or soils.When injected in a grid pattern across the substrate (through pre -installed injection ports), it will travel through the pores of the brickwork and "Gel" forming a permanently elastic mass capable of holding back the pressure of water behind the structure.The Koster Technical team become heavily involved in these types of projects, working carefully with the design team and contractors ensuring a successful project completion.For more information or for advice on a similar project, please contact the Koster Technical team on technical@kosteruk.com.

Two New Bailey is the 188,500 sq ft state-of-the-art of office development in the heart of Salford, Manchester.The building is designed to provide flexible working environments full of character; referencing the spirit of Salford’s industry and the site’s setting on the River Irwell. The unmissable red steel structure is exposed and brought to the outside to provide solar shading for the elegantly fabricated façade, created using Reynaers bespoke EF 86 unitised curtain walling - a complicated solution where the steel actually penetrated the façade!Sustainability and occupier wellbeing is at the heart of this impressive ten-storey office development and can be seen throughout, the building achieves a Grade A BREEAM-rated specification, and is equipped with bike storage, outdoor terraces and stunning panoramic views of Salford and beyond.Two New Bailey is already home to some prestigious companies with others following suit. We’re thrilled to be involved with such a vibrant and unique project! Products used: EF 86 bespoke unitised curtain wallingContractor: StaticusFabricator: Bowmer & KirklandArchitects: AHMM

Blue-green roof solution on a London dwellingCHALLENGE8a Belmont Street comprises two unique semi-detached dwellings, which have been constructed in Chalk Farm, London by a private developer Maygrove Projects in collaboration with Martin Evans Architects. The total roof area covers only 55.03m² but features an unusual roof design; it is divided into five sections comprising two glazed roofs and three blue roof areas. For this warm roof construction, an alternative durable waterproofing was sought, suitable for blue roof application. SOLUTION Approved Roofing Contractor Gribben Solar Roofing provided an alternative blue roof solution to the original design proposed by the project architects, fully complying with their needs. Together with partner and single ply manufacturer RENOLIT they proposed a waterproofing solution for the blue roof in the form of a fully bonded RENOLIT ALKORPLAN L35A77 membrane, to be combined with the RENOLIT ALKORPLAN Green roof system. So, actually, a blue-green roof!

Capital Dock, a 22-storey mixed usedevelopment, including office blocksand residential areas, is in the vibrantDublin Docklands and was developed byKennedy Wilson.John Sisk & Son were the main contractors, and Clarke Contracts installed 25,000m² of Cemfloor, the chosen screed for the project.The main advantage Cemfloor has over the flowing screeds is the quicker drying time. It also eliminates any risk of incompatibility with cement-based adhesives and levellers and no special preparations are needed before hand. After looking at their options, Cemfloor was chosen for the project due to its faster installation time and drying time compared to traditional sand and cement screeds. This helped to keep the project on track with its tight building schedule.Due to its flowing nature, Cemfloor was pumped and placed 20 stories high without issue. The limited space available on site was also a factor to be considered and was resolved by using Cemfloor. It was delivered to the site ready mixed which eliminated the need of on-site mixing and storage of sand and cement on site.

CastSlot and Paveslot, the leading channel drainage systems from Gatic Civil Drainage, have been installed at Rushden Lakes, the new high end shopping centre in Northamptonshire. Specified by consulting engineers, BE Design, and working with contractors Winvic, CastSlot with a tread safe top was carefully selected for its robust composition – essential for a busy shopping centre. CastSlot’s tread safe top is important in areas with high volumes of pedestrians, removing the risk of heels getting caught in the grating. PaveSlot was installed in the project’s central boulevard – home to a bespoke water feature.Gatic is a globally recognised brand, specified for many prestigious projects around the world. Its leading range of surface water drainage is strong, durable and reliable, with load ratings from A15 to F900 to suit a wide range of applications. CastSlot’s high capacity channels provide effective surface water management, protecting areas from excessive rainfall. PaveSlot is ideal for paved areas, with a discreet profile that sits neatly in the ground for a subtle and unobtrusive finish.

The new Santander Work Café in Jersey is the banking institution’s first major high street location in the Channel Islands. The banking space is designed to provide customers with a better experience in a comfortable and open environment and is the work of Santander’s in-house architects, Jose Miguel Perez Tallon and Ruben Sesmero Blanco. They worked with fit-out contractor Style Shopfitting, to specify Amtico Signature LVT, which was fitted by Marett Floorcraft. When considering the design for the new Work Café, Santander’s in-house architect team wanted to experiment with a new floor pattern to bring together the informal meeting and co-working spaces on the ground and first floors. Amtico produced a bespoke version of its Aspekt laying pattern, using shards of Signature in Worn Oak, Solar Pine and Exposed Concrete for an ultramodern and urban look to inspire visitors, create specific zones and link the two floors of the building. The design blends into Worn Oak, laid in Stripwood, to aid wayfinding and subtly connect different areas while complementing the colour scheme. 

A bespoke Gatic CastSlot system was installed as part of the redevelopment of the riverside stand for Craven Cottage, home to Fulham FC. The project, which began in July 2021, incorporates Gatic CastSlot Treadsafe, which was chosen to drain away any excess surface water from the seating/standing areas along the deck of the stand. It was installed by main contractors Buckingham Group.The unobtrusive profile of CastSlot sits neatly within concrete, asphalt, and block surface finishes and features an electro painted ductile iron throat section. This is securely fixed to the galvanised steel channel body to provide an exceptionally robust yet discreet drainage system.The treadsafe option was chosen for this project. Treadsafe is available for areas where there is regular foot traffic and is available with a 10mm or 30mm opening—ideal for stadium standing and seating areas.Bespoke access boxes were also created for the new stand, and channel throat depths were also extended for level changes, allowing a constant invert within the channel.

GRP End of Platform Steps | Case StudyContractor AmcoGiffen selected Dura Composites to design and fabricate 6 sets of GRP End of Platform Steps for Kings Cross Station in London, which were installed by Amco in a very short time frame to meet the needs of the tight project timescales. Weighing up to 80% less than steel and 30% less than aluminium, Dura Composites End of Platform Steps offer equivalent performance for considerably less weight. This results in major savings including lower installation costs due to more economical transportation, handling and on-site positioning.The client was delighted with the quality of the design and workmanship and with Dura’s ability to turn the fabrications around in such a short space of time, describing the structures as having “gone in like a dream”. As well as fully fabricated non-corrosive and non-conductive single unit GRP end of platform steps Dura Composites can also supply in component or flat pack kit form ready for quick assembly on-site.

Non-Conductive Fencing, Trench Covers and Access Structures | Case StudyPower and Energy Infrastructure Contractor Morgan Sindall was appointed to design, build and commission the new converter station and chose to work with Dura Composites to provide safe, non- metallic Glass Reinforced Polymer (GRP) utility fencing for the AC/DC Halls, as well as a range of non-conductive access structures, utility trench covers & handrailing across the site.The IFA2 project aims to connect the electricity systems of Great Britain and France using high voltage subsea cables and will be capable of exporting or importing 1000MW of power between the UK and France, enough to power up to 1 million homes. In this project, the client specification mandated the use of non-conductive and non-metallic materials which could be used to construct removable fencing, permanent fencing and sliding gates to enable access to specific authorised personnel, whilst preventing others from accessing high-risk areas.

This major expansion of the deep-water container terminal at Liverpool docks would significantly increase the footprint and capacity of the site. The site handles the world’s largest container ships and connects road, rail and canal networks directly to the heart of the UK mainland. As part of this project, external concrete surfacing was needed that would deliver long term resistance to the high volumes of HGV traffic using the terminal. After discussions with the contractor, the solution proposed was Tarmac’s TOPFORCE fibre reinforced concrete with a combination of synthetic macro and micro fibres. TOPFORCE can eliminate the need for some traditional steel reinforcement, making it quicker and easier to place. It offers excellent longterm durability making it ideal for commercial and industrial sites used by HGV traffic. This solution would deliver a saving in both labour and material costs and avoid the budget impact of the rising cost of steel. As well as improving the durability and structural performance, the use of macro fibres also improved sustainability significantly by reducing embodied carbon compared to traditional steel reinforcement. 

As part of a £44m project to build a major new police operational command centre, surfacing was required for the large parking area and access roads. The parking area would be used by more than 1,200 officers and support staff and a wide range of vehicles from police cars to heavy goods vehicles. Originally an AC 10 close graded surface course material had been specified. However, after early engagement with the surfacing and main contractor, it was clear that a more robust and durable solution was required that could withstand the high volumes of traffic using the site.Tarmac’s ULTIDRIVE asphalt was chosen as the solution. Designed to resist the long term effects of daily vehicle movement, ULTIDRIVE is a high performance asphalt with a smooth and highly durable finish. An advanced modified binder enhances the toughness of the surface, provides improved resistance to scuffing and abrasion from power-assisted turning and reduces softening in hot weather. It also gives enhanced resistance to temporary fuel and oil spills compared to conventional asphalt surfacing.

Project type: EducationLocation: Wimbledon High School, London, SW19 4ABProject Cost: £21mProduct: Rainscreen with ExtrusionsFinish (Extrusions): Syntha Pulvin RAL 7047 Matt Telegrau 4Finish (Panel): Syntha Pulvin RAL 7021 Matt Black GreyProduct: Fascia Soffit to Eaves, Verge & RIdgeFinish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 7021 Matt Black GreyProduct: Vertical Feature FinsFinish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 7021 Matt Black GreyProduct: Copings & Rainwater PipesFinish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 7021 Matt Black GreyFire Rating: A2 s1, d0 Non-combustible (Reaction to Fire EN BS 13501-1:2018)Product: Monocoque Support System (Galv)Fire Rating: A1 Non-combustible (Reaction to Fire EN BS 13501-1:2018)Client: Neilcott Construction LTDArchitect: IID ArchitectsContractor: Neilcott Construction LTDPhotography: IID Architects & John Nason

Travelodge have recently started a £100million nationwide modernisation programme as well as an increase of their Hotel brand sites. Travelodge Oxford is a New Build Development on Abingdon Road, built to help with the growing demand for affordable hotel accommodation in Oxford, mainly due to the increase in tourism as well as families visiting students in the city.The new Travelodge on Abingdon Road has 83 rooms, to supplement the demand in the area. The existing Travelodge in Oxford which was built in 1999, also has plans to be upgraded and refurbished with a new entrance, conservatory and a revamped restaurant.Soundis supplied the acoustic flooring at this Travelodge project for the Main Contractor Hinton Design & Build. The Travelodge specification for a high quality acoustic flooring system included 22mm T&G Chipboard and 19mm Plasterboard Plank, over a 30mm high density Rockfloor insulation floor slab with acoustic flanking edging band around the perimeter to separate and isolate all abutments. The whole project required over 1,200 sq metres of acoustic flooring.

Like every other institute of learning, the University of Bristol has to provide world class educational facilities, but also find new revenue streams. One such area is the provision of commercial conference space. This of course brings an extra pressure in the quality of the space provided to fee paying delegates.The atmosphere of the large open atrium was dependent on controlling the level of reverberation, without compromising on the architectural finish.Working closely with the Main Contractors Site Team, Architect and Client, we were involved in the specification for the new Atrium Feature Wall, along with all complex detailing, including expansion joints, louvres and display cabinets.Working closely with Vinci Construction, to carry out the Absorb-R GypLine αw Acoustic Plaster treatment to the Atrium Feature Wall at the University.Soundis Absorb-R GypLine αw system was installed to give a very desirable natural white stippled effect, combined with a highly absorbent functional wall spanning the length and height of the building, rising a full 5 floors.

A Stoke-on-Trent City Council unit required refurbishment due to its poorly insulated roof and subsequent thermal issues. The 2.000ft2 apex roof and adjoining service areas were refurbished to improve thermal performance with a total of 98, 50mm and 100mm thickness Eurothane® GP boards applied to the building.Spencer Crossley, the store owner explained:"The Eurothane® GP panels have done a fantastic job. They’ve made a huge impact on thermal conditions inside the shop. It means I can keep the store open later. The insulation within the refurbished roof has made for a more enjoyable shopping experience for customers and better working conditions. I’m extremely happy with this fantastic product."About Eurothane® GP:Eurothane® GP is a high performance PIR insulation board that is light weight, easy to cut, handle and install. Whether it’s a pitched roof, framed wall or floor, Eurothane® GP is the ideal solution amongst contractors and installers

Bonny LGA, situated on the Atlantic coast of Nigeria, serves as a hub for the thriving Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) industry, alongside hosting the terminals of various prominent oil and gas companies, including ExxonMobil, operating in Nigeria under the name Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU).Recognising the critical need for heightened security in this strategic region, HAG stepped in to supply and install our advanced Armourguard and Alishield Range roller shutters across multiple locations in the Niger Delta, bolstering the security infrastructure of Shell premises and other key facilities. In addition to our installation efforts, we also conducted comprehensive training sessions for local representatives of the main contractor, empowering them to efficiently install and maintain HAG products, thereby ensuring sustained security enhancements on a supply-only basis.This collaborative initiative underscores HAG's commitment to providing innovative security solutions and fostering local capacity-building initiatives to safeguard vital assets and promote sustainable development in the region.

Products:Externals: OS221 Orbis Midrail Infill Top FixAtrium: M311 Mono Glass Infill Top FixStairs: M310 Mono Glass Infill Side FixContractor: Galliford Try Construction LtdArchitects: Ryder ArchitectureThe £25m redevelopment of the Greenhead Sixth-Form College Campus was one of the first Net Zero Carbon in Operation school buildings built by the Department for Educations Rebuilding Programme.Galliford Try Construction enlisted Delta to fulfil the requirements of this balustrade and handrail package – totalling 280 metres of balustrade system.With Greenhead College situated within the Greenhead Park Conservation Area and in close proximity to historic buildings, the more traditional tubular Orbis powder coated balustrade with midrail’s was installed to the external steps.Whereas a more sleek, modern aesthetic was decided upon for the atrium and stairs in the form of Delta’s Mono powder coated balustrade with stainless steel handrails and glass infill secured with a bolt-through banjo lug.

The new Student Centre at Queen’s University Belfast brings together student services and the Student Union in a spectacular new building. Designed through collaboration between Hawkins\Brown and RPP Architects, the building sits at the heart of campus and cleverly bridges the gap between the University’s heritage and future. An accessible, modern space with an open plan entrance area creates a vibrant hub for students to socialise, engage, collaborate, and access support and advice. The interior exploits the high ceiling and large-scale steel structure where a central staircase doubles as terraced amphitheatre-style seating. Clad in Junckers’ solid Nordic Oak flooring with nosing in contrasting Black Oak to achieve an LRV differential of 30 points, the stairs form a visual and social focus in the building, creating a flexible, infinitely useable space. “The central social stair is a key design feature that links the spaces on different floors and provides clear, intuitive wayfinding for visitors. The warmth and natural character of the Nordic Oak flooring complimenting the red laminate cladding helps visual orientation running up through the public spaces” said Alan Shields, director, RPP Architecture. The solid hardwood flooring forms a hard-wearing and long-lasting surface ideal for high traffic areas and the natural warmth of the timber adds to the material beauty of the interior. With strong sustainability credentials, Junckers’ flooring plays a part in the architects’ design to create a building which is more efficient and less costly to operate and maintain, future-proofed for generations to come. The building also houses a performance studio with Junckers’ sprung SylvaSport Beech flooring and the one-of-a-kind Union Bar which has been fitted with a reclaimed Junckers’ sports floor. With the old line markings intact, the floor has a rustic, industrial look which will hide a multitude of sins in a busy student bar. It was finished with Junckers’ High Performance Friction+ lacquer to provide a slip resistant surface. The reclaimed floor was sourced with the help of Junckers’ Buy Back Scheme. Junckers connects with flooring contractors who specialise in reclaiming wood flooring by providing details of projects where an old floor needs lifting, as well as acting as liaison between contractors sourcing a floor which can be repurposed. The sports floor fitted in the student bar by Oakvale Wooden Flooring was lifted from a school sports hall in England by Hargreaves Reclaimed Flooring. 

FIREFLY ZEUS Lite™ Safeguards Ceiling Spaces Across Wakefield Food WarehouseForming a fresh element to the UK’s critical food supply infrastructure, a new distribution warehouse in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, is near to completion with the specialist suspended ceiling installer making use of ZEUS Lite™ 90:30 from the range of TBA FIREFLY™, to create vertical fire barriers at intervals within the roof-space across the footprint of the building.The 15,300m2 facility at Headways in Stanley, on the outskirts of Wakefield, has been built by GF Tomlinson for the Kitwave Group, a national distribution business with a fleet of over 500 vehicles supplying hotels, restaurants and many other venues across the country. The installation of the ZEUS Lite™ was undertaken by Nottingham Suspended Ceilings, as the sub-contractor well experienced with the performance and user-friendly characteristics of the Firefly range.All the rolls of ZEUS Lite™ 90:30 material and the well proven FIREFLY™ fixings, including stainless steel staples and fire-resistant adhesive, were supplied to Nottingham Suspended Ceilings by the merchant, Minster On-line.The site agent for Nottingham Suspended Ceilings, Mark Prescott, commented: “Our company carries out commercial contracts right across the East Midlands and beyond, where we have made use of Firefly barriers on a large number of past projects. Although you have to be a competent contractor and follow the manufacturer’s guidance precisely, we find the ZEUS Lite™ and other products in the FIREFLY™ range straightforward to install. In the case of the warehouse here, we have now completed the installation of the fire barriers up to roof level in dozens of locations across the building; as well as installing all of the suspended ceilings throughout.”FIREFLY™ ZEUS Lite™ is ideally suited to this type of application, comprising a flexible woven fabric fire barrier that has been specifically developed for the vertical separation and compartmentation of extensive concealed spaces within buildings.By offering 90 minutes integrity and 30 minutes insulation, FIREFLY™ ZEUS Lite™ 90:30 exceeds the minimum requirements regarding fire barriers under the Building Regulations’ Approved Document B (Fire Safety). The specially treated glass fibre fabric is strong and resilient as well as flexible while, crucially, the system’s certification covers the inclusion of service penetrations; which many alternative products do not.

DescriptionSoldi Investments completed the new Lidl store in Chichester, West Hampnett Road.  Soldi Investments machine applied the LIDL External Render System onto Poroton blocks externally using as Base Coat: Bauprotec 850 M – Lightweight Lime Cement Render and as Finish Coat; Mineral Finish Coat K. As Key Coat: Change of substrate concrete/steel pillar/Poroton block or mass concrete and insulated plinths: Bauprotec RHS Multi-Purpose Render with the addition of Bauprotec SLP for plinths.For the internal Poroton walls Smet One Coat Projection Plaster was used at a thickness of 15mm. One Coat Projection Plaster Hard Coat is a factory-produced hard coat One Coat Gypsum Plaster designed for machine application produced to EN 13279-1. It is manufactured from a controlled blend of selected gypsum and other components to give a high-quality, high-strength plastering product that is suitable for use in internal plastering.The LIDL render spec, available from SMET consists of:Bauprotec 850 M is a factory-produced Lightweight Lime Cement Render, specially designed for machine or hand application produced to EN 998-1: 2010 and is CE Marked.Bauprotec RHS is a CE Marked, factory-produced highly polymer-modified render specially designed for hand and machine application produced to EN 998-1: 2010.Mineral Finish Coat – K is a CE marked, factory-produced, mineral-based, high-quality finish-coat render, specially designed for hand and machine application to EN 998-1, 2010.Bauprotec SLP is a CE Marked, factory-produced Lightweight Sand & Cement Render specially designed for hand and machine application produced to EN 998-1: 2010.The special render properties; lightweight, low thermal conductivity, high yield, and Smet Supported Partner superior technical backup, are key factors in choosing SMET.SMET is committed to delivering consistently superior quality, German-made Render Systems to Lidl Plastering and rendering/plastering contractors across the UK and ROI.  If you’d like to speak to us about your Lidl job – contact SMET. All LIDL spec SMET Render System products are available directly from Smet Building Products Ltd, which ensures the contractor has a superior level of technical backup in the machine application of the LIDL specification.

Paultons Park expands with new Dinosaur-Themed Adventure ParkAs part of an expansion project, Paultons Park located in The New Forest, Hampshire, added a new dinosaur-themed adventure park called ‘Lost Kingdom’.The development includes two world-class roller coasters, Jurassic-themed family rides, and adventure play parks and playgrounds.IAE Fencing was approached by the development contractor to supply decorative railings around the playgrounds and along the roller coaster and family rides queueing paths to increase safety and manage the visitor foot traffic.IAE Playspec Playground FencingAround the playgrounds, IAE recommended IAE Playspec Playground Fencing. This is a BS EN 1176 Playground Equipment and RoSPA compliant metal railing system designed to clearly demarcate play areas, and be safe for children. It has no pointy edges or trap or pinch points, to minimise the chase of injury.Access to the play areas was provided by IAE’s Prosafe Playground Gate. This is a speed controlled self closing unit complying with the same safety specifications as the Playspec Playground Fence.To complete the look the railing was colour-matched to the theme of the park, as shown in the images above.IAE Blore Ball Top RailingsFor the railing along the roller coaster ride paths, the contractor chose IAE Blore Ball Top Railings. This system provided an elegant solution to managing the queues and keeping park visitors away from potentially hazardous areas under the roller coasters. It was finished off with an eye-catching alternating colour finish.IAE Duex Edge ProtectionA section of IAE Duex Edge Protection was also supplied to guard against a steep drop falling away from a path that ran alongside a visitor area. This system has been load tested up to 1.5kN/m and specified as suitably robust for the application, providing the necessary safety factor, without being too intrusive on the overall look of the park.Specifying IAE’s Playspec Fencing, Blore Railing, and Duex Edge ProtectionIAE's Playspec Playground Fencing, Blore Ball Top Railings, and Duex Edge Protection are all popular systems installed on hundreds of sites across the country and can be specified with confidence. For further details on the systems and to specify them on your project, check out the featured products sections below, or contact IAE Fencing Division directly.

Architect: Henning Larson - CopenhagenContractor: SKANSKA - SwedenThe ProjectESS / European Spallation Source, located in Lund, Sweden, is a joint European research facility to which 13 member countries contribute technical equipment, expertise and funding. Researchers worldwide will be able to study materials in detail allowing them to investigate solutions for some of the world’s most complex challenges in material research, renewable energy, biomedicine and pharmaceutical pursuits. The facility is expected to open for research in 2023.Not only will ESS become a world-leading research facility, it will also be one of the most sustainable and energy smart research infrastructures.The ESS energy concept is based on three pillars: the facility will be very energy efficient and will use as little energy as possible, all energy will come from renewable energy sources and the waste heat will be recycled.Inpro® Products UsedFireline® 140 Fire BarrierSeries 114 Drywall Wall and Ceiling Interior SystemSeries 651 Surface Mount Exterior SystemSeries 672 Bellows Roof Exterior SystemSeries 995 Fire-rated FoamWhy did Skanska decide to work with Inpro?The project started 2 years ago with a single request for information from Henning Larsen Architects – Copenhagen. In 2019 Inpro were asked by Skanska to tender for an expansion joint product line addressing the exterior cladding of this unique facility. At that time, several other manufacturing companies were being considered for the wide ranging scope of movement joints required. However after in depth interviews, only Inpro was able to offer all the complex joint solutions required in one primary supplier.Detailed Sustainability product information was submitted and verified by third parties.Complicated Shop Drawings and take-offs of the massive 6-building involved depicting multiple complicated transitions between varying substrates, differing products and a range of geometries for the custom-made solutions.Demonstrated our ability to overcome complex technical and field-related problems.Were involved with hours of online meetings with the main stakeholders- Skanska technical teams, the Architectural team and the Installing Contractor in a collaborative approach to implement best practice and minimize risk.This was an Inpro team project including Senior Product Management, Sustainability team, estimation and commercial management who all played an important part to land this iconic development with SKANSKA.

Stopgap 600 Base deep section base compound and Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS adhesive were amongst products from F. Ball used to install floorcoverings in the new premises of the Echt franchise of the Dutch home deco retailer Decorette.Work was undertaken by Decorette Woonatelier Schuyt in Vught, as part of an arrangement that will in turn see Decorette Woonatelier Echt install floorcoverings at the Vught location when it is refurbished later in the year.After installers began by removing old ceramic tiles and mechanically preparing the subfloor to remove adhesive residues, floor levels needed to be raised by 11mm.To do this, flooring contractors applied Stopgap 600 Base deep section compound at a thickness of 7mm. The product is suitable for applications at thicknesses between 5–50mm prior to being capped with a suitable F. Ball smoothing compound. Its fast-drying properties meant that this could take place just three hours later, allowing flooring contractors to return the next day to install floorcoverings.Pressure sensitive adhesives from F. Ball were then used to install PVC planks in a herringbone formation in the 200m2 area. Floorcoverings were adhered using Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS temperature tolerant adhesive in the areas near the showroom’s floor-to-ceiling windows, which had the potential to cause solar gain and, consequently, extreme temperatures and temperature fluctuations – this can cause floorcoverings to expand and contract significantly, leading to unsightly tenting and gapping at the edge of vinyl floorcoverings over time. Styccobond F46 was used to install vinyl planks in other areas. The pressure sensitive acrylic adhesive provides a high bond strength that increases as it is trafficked, as well as strong initial tack, to reduce the likelihood of tiles or planks moving around while working.Raymond Schuijt, franchise owner and installer at Decorette Schuyt, said: “We love using F. Ball adhesives and smoothing underlayments as they are top quality and very easy to work with. The range is well thought out and contains solutions for every situation you can imagine. I can always count on their technical support if I have any queries too. They’re only ever a phone call away and will gladly undertake site assessments to advise on the required subfloor preparation and floorcovering installation processes.”

Belvedere CourtBauder Hot Melt structural waterproofing systemSynopsisThe impressive Belvedere Court 4-storey building, which was converted from a hotel into 16 prestigious residential apartments in 2008, recently underwent further development including extensions for additional accommodation, basement housing, a communal swimming pool, a theatre and an underground car park.As part of the refurbishment of the site, the failing waterproofing of the green roof on the car park roof deck needed to be removed and replaced. Bauder approved contractor, The Complete Roofing Company (TCRC), initially proceeded to remove the existing pathways and landscaping before removing the failed system and providing remedial repairs to the damaged roof.Bauder Building BoardProject:Belvedere Court​Location:Sidmouth, Devon​Roof Area:1,316m²​Specifier:The Complete Roofing Company LtdApproved Contractor:The Complete Roofing Company LtdEnvironmental Focus:Intensive green roofThe specificationWith the car park roof also being used as a recreational green roof for the residents of Belvedere Court, the Bauder Hot Melt Intensive Green Roof System was an obvious choice. The Bauder Hot Melt Bakor 790-11 EV with Polyester reinforcement creates a resistant monolithic waterproofing membrane whilst the Bauder AP2 root barrier provides resistance to the system allowing for a green roof to be installed above. As stated by BBA certificate 06/4350, this system provides a durable waterproofing solution for the service life of the structure that it is incorporated in. The resultOn completion of the waterproofing elements the roof was leak tested to ensure the roof’s integrity. The TCRC then installed the Bauder green roof components; PE foil, FSM600 protection membrane, DSE40 drainage layer, filter fleece and over 300 tonnes of Bauder intensive substrate. Finally, Rowland Gold turf was then installed with a drip line irrigation system installed under the turf. Upon final assessment, this project met the criteria to be issued a 20 year product and workmanship guarantee.System Installed1 BauderPLANT E 42Torch-on root-resistant, green capping sheet. Reinforced with spunbond polyester fleece to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture.2 790-11Hot melt rubberised bitumen asphalt with a percentage of post-consumer recycled materials that infills and fully bonds to all minor deviations in the deck.3 DeckPrimed concrete.