"leadwork contractors"

The scope of work at 217 Bath Road combined a full-scale structural refurbishment and fit-out of the internal space along with extensive landscaping works around the building.Landlords EPIC UK sought to revitalise the site into four floors of highly desirable Grade A office space — all to be done with a strong emphasis on sustainability.With a view to make the most of the available floorspace, a partially-filled atrium design was submitted by architects Stiff + Trevellion.Radii AG’s experience in providing structural glazed atrium solutions saw them work closely with the architects and main contractors Overbury and contribute their considerable expertise to bring the design to life.The initial atrium design at Bath Road was to be comprised of system partitions that were installed ‘slab to slab’, with spandrel panels then covering the glazing.After careful consideration, Radii AG proposed an alternative solution that would see all glazed elements and spandrel panels installed in one continuous plane.This evolution of the design would ‘value engineer’ the build and improve overall aesthetics by ensuring clean lines throughout.Furthermore, Radii AG were able to work closely with our western contracting office, who were tasked with supplying the abutted glass partitioning systems.The installation of free issue spandrel panels ensured a seamless aesthetic transition to the adjoining glazed partitioning from the industrial-style partition system.

Stowford Mill, built in 1787, is one of Devon’s oldest historic industrial sites to still be expanding.Because of its iconic features and characteristic atmosphere, Stowford Mill has long been established as one of the trendiest places to work, eat and shop, bringing commerce and prosperity to the surrounding area, and forcing the town to expand to make room for tourists who just never wanted to leave.Part of this expansion will eventually include Burrington Estates’ eight-acre vibrant community of contemporary new homes. This new development, for which the main contractor is URBN, is due for completion in 2023.Started in March 2018, the existing homes already include Alumasc Rainwater Infinity Steel gutters and downpipes, specified to provide eco-friendly, discreet and resilient water management that will last. Crucially, this system was favoured to the use of plastic systems, to meet the demand for a readily available product that was both environmentally- and price-conscious.As the new development creates a unique new environment in which to live, work and relax in the midst of the historic area, the most important part of the project was to keep the best of the stunning architectural heritage already there, whilst finding innovative ways to incorporate the latest modern building design. Helping to bridge this gap between the historic and the modern, AWMS offered a solution.“Alumasc systems were chosen as it was the project’s requirements to specifically use steel for gutters and downpipes,” David Loader, Key Account Manager at Alumasc, explained.

The number of Davit Arms required for a project should not sound like the quintessential British question of "one lump or two" for your cup of tea.It should depend on the specific project parameters but it is a question we are often asked, even if the employer's requirements or access strategy specifically identify a quantity.There are however a few definitive requirements. If the system is designed for single users (due to roof/building structural load limitations for instance), then two Davits must be provided to facilitate safe rescue. Equally, although Davits are component form and portable, the units are not light to carry between buildings, might be too large for service lifts and no one even wants to think about the stairs - the buildings being cleaned by rope access for a reason!Additionally, the duty holder and building owner should consider cleaning times and crew efficiency. Responsible IRATA contractors operate in a team of three, with one level 3 supervisor and two operatives. With a single davit, two of the team are effectively non-productive.Finally, it can be that multiple outreach davits are required. The projection requirements can vary depending on rooftop socket locations, parapet sizes, and façade elements. For extended cleaning cycles, Davit arms should project so that there is a naturally extended reach.Leave the one lump or two questions for your cup of tea, or number or shots of espresso if you prefer……….

We supplied Integrated Flooring Technologies with 2,000m2 SMET LiteFlo® Lightweight Flowing Screed for the new-build hotel in Torpichen Street in Edinburgh. The product supplied helped our Smet Supported Partner, to deliver for the principal contractor, Ogilvie Construction, a high-quality pumpable, CE marked, self-levelling screed based on calcium sulphate.German-made SMET LiteFlo® is unique because it’s the first pumpable lightweight flowing screed available. Made from specially selected aggregates – means it’s 30% lighter than conventional flowing screeds and can be laid in reduced thicknesses. The screed offers a high yield, 43kg per m2 @ 40mm.Innovative SMET LiteFlo® is particularly suitable and absolutely ideal for application in high-rise buildings, over timber-suspended floors, timber-frame houses, and in new builds and renovations. LiteFlo® complies with EN 13813: 2002, is CE-marked, and is available in 27Kg bags or bulk silos.Have a look at the Northern Builder MagazineTop 5 Liquid Screeds Article.  Read about SMET LiteFlo® in the Irish Construction News.Whether your job is – self-build, retro-fit, floor renovation or repair, design floor, commercial or shop, sustainable build, historical renovation, ECO build, Lightweight, or an industrial flooring venture – SMET has a flooring compound or ready to use product suitable for your application.www.smetbuildingproducts.com or www.smet.ie

New floor installation with fast-track – rapid drying floor screed solution, allowing early final flooring installation. SMET supplied Sopro Rapidur® B5 Rapid Drying Screed Binder to Smet Supported Partner, Brendan Doherty Screeding Services, approximately 500 m2, for the flooring renovation and repair in Queen’s University Belfast, School of Law new extension. B Doherty Screeding Services completed the flooring project on behalf of lead contractor Felix O’Hare & Co.Ltd.Y SMETGerman-made Rapidur® B5 Rapid Drying Screed Binder is a special polymer-modified binder for particularly economical ­production of high-strength, rapid-set cement screed – based on DIN 18560 – allowing early floor installation. Rapidur® B5 is suitable for use on heated screeds, bonded screeds, unbonded screeds and floating screeds. This flooring solution is particularly useful for fast-track or tightly scheduled screed laying. The newly laid Rapidur® B5 screed floor is ready to receive floor covering after approx. 3 days – after the achievement of moisture content ≤ 1.8 % CM. Sopro Rapidur® B5 is supplied in 25kg bags, with 40 bags per pallet. SMET delivers another innovative, showcase flooring solution to their Smet Supported Partners. Click the link to see a showcase of jobs completed by Brendan Doherty Screeding Services.

Job: Bray Medical Centre for Collen ConstructionSmet Supported Partner: B Doherty Screeding ServicesProduct:Sopro Rapidur® B5 Rapid Drying Screed BinderRelated Downloads:TDS Sopro Rapidur® B5 Rapid Drying Floor Screed BinderSMET Floor Screeds and Compounds Product SelectorDescriptionSMET supplied Sopro Rapidur® B5 Rapid Drying Screed Binder to Smet Supported Partner, Brendan Doherty Screeding Services, for the flooring solution in this fast track in Bray Medical Centre. B Doherty Screeding Services completed the flooring project on behalf of lead contractor Collen Construction.German-made Rapidur® B5 Rapid Drying Screed Binder is a special polymer-modified binder for particularly economical ­production of high-strength, rapid-set cement screed – based on DIN 18560 – allowing early floor installation, and for laying to falls.   is suitable for use on heated screeds, bonded screeds, unbonded screeds, and floating screeds. This flooring solution is particularly useful for fast-track or tightly scheduled screed laying. The newly laid Rapidur® B5 screed floor is ready to receive floor covering after approx. 3 days – after achievement of moisture content ≤ 1.8 % CM. Sopro Rapidur® B5 is supplied in 25kg bags, with 40 bags per pallet.

United Living approached Sertus to supply automatic smoke ventilation products for all seven blocks, to keep fire escape routes via stairwells and communal corridors free from smoke in the event of a fire.Project Name: Dagenham FlatsLocation: East LondonSector: ResidentialClient: London Borough of Barking & DagenhamInitial BriefUnited Living is one of the UK’s leading providers of refurbished and new build dwellings. The company was tasked with the refurbishment of seven apartment blocks in the London borough of Dagenham and Barking. As multi-storey blocks occupied by demographically-diverse residents, including families and the elderly, the requirement for safe escape routes in the event of a fire was clear; and the existing ventilation within this 1970's building had been identified as less than optimal.Sertus' Façade Louvre Blade (Glass) vents were used in this project. View the product here.OutcomeThe addition of windows has improved overall quality of life in the building by introducing more natural light, increasing ventilation and comfort, and reducing the energy costs associated with both.Fitting into the existing window frames and supplied with full wiring schematics, the window vents proved simple and speedy to install, which kept costs down and reduced disruption for residents during the scheme of works. All products are certified to residential building regulations, including EN12101-2, delivering total peace of mind for client, contractor and residents alike.

FOAMGLAS® T4+ (Slab)Design Architects: C.F. Moller & Purcell Miller TrittonMain Contractor: Bovis Lend LeaseApplication: Compact Roof - Gallery Roof & Restaurant Terrace FOAMGLAS® S3 (Slab )Finish: PaversFOAMGLAS® insulation was specified for the new gallery terrace and restaurant of the National Maritime Museum. With limited height available upon the roof there was no space for a concrete screed to falls. Therefore, architects Purcell Miller Tritton needed a factory machined tapered insulation with a slope to shed water. In addition, the limestone terrace paving must withstand the loads imposed by vehicles and so the insulation beneath had to withstand these dynamic loads without any compression.FOAMGLAS® T4+ slab insulation was specified for the project due to these conditions. FOAMGLAS® does not move or deflect under loads, and is available factory machined with a tapered slope. Its thermal performance is reliable and permanent and it is guaranteed for the lifetime of the building. The new roof of the gallery has paved areas, and green planting with hidden drain age and water supplies.The restaurant terrace gives wonderful view of the World Heritage Site, Greenwich Park and the Royal Observatory. The gallery has some fascinating objects; including jewels which belonged to Sir Francis Drake, journals written by Captain Cook’s during his long voyages, and personal items that survived the sinking of HMS Titanic.

The Old Court House was on the verge of collapse when purchased by its current owner. The Local Planning Authority had placed a Section 106 agreement on the property detailing its rescue from dereliction and were preparing to increase its listing status to Grade I as it was rumoured to be a hunting lodge gifted by Queen Elizabeth to Robert Dudley, 1st Earl of Leicester. Dating carried out during the course of the works confirmed that the building had been constructed in phases between 1526 and 1613.A team, including the client, Harrison Brookes Architects and Speller Metcalfe Contractors worked closely to bring this house back to life using a range of conservation skills and employing specially made components (bricks and tiles) combined with modern technologies. The Clement 3 range of Conservation Rooflights in a tile profile were chosen to be in keeping with the property’s appearance.Rhys Brookes from Harrison Brookes Architects said “This Grade II listed building was in a dilapidated state and required meticulous and painstaking reconstruction. The inclusion of Clement’s Conservation Rooflights helped us to stay true to the original character of the property whilst also meeting the demands of Building Regulations.”The project has won numerous awards including; RIBA Conservation 2018, the RIBA Regional Award West Midlands 2018 and the RIBA Project Architect of the Year Award 2018.

Queens Crescent is a bustling retail street situated in London’s Kentish Town. The roof area above the Post Office building, which also served as a communal walkway area with access to the upper level of the adjacent buildings, had been suffering from leaks. To add to the issues, the aged promenade tiles had worn and become a slip hazard when trafficked. Looking for a lasting waterproof solution that can also provide heavy duty anti-slip surfacing, the client turned to Polyroof for a solution. To minimise access disruption to the upper level adjacent buildings, the client had organised a 5-day window for the waterproofing and surfacing works to be completed.The SolutionThe main contractor had removed the old paving slabs and membrane back to the concrete deck underneath and carried out repairs to create a level surface.Approved Polyroof Contractor Emperor Roofing began by priming the concrete surface to create a sealed, non-porous substrate. With its quick-curing properties, the Polyroof primer was ready to be over-coated only 30 minutes after its installation.A specialist twin-pack epoxy metallic primer was applied to metal detailing sections, including ducting vents and the intricate balustrade detail alongside the communal stairwell, which also formed part of the specified works.Local reinforcements were carried out to these details involving taking Protec resin and PolyMat 450 up by 150mm before applying the full waterproofing system.Upon completion, the balustrades were re-painted, with the paint being taken over the waterproofing membrane to create a neat detail. A key advantage of liquid systems in general is their ability to seamlessly seal around complex detailing; in this instance, quite simply, the balustrades could not have been sealed effectively using a traditional waterproofing technology.Polyroof’s Protec System enjoys exceptionally fast detailing speeds, where its formulation allows it to rapidly break down the chopped strand mat reinforcement and neatly moulds around the detail it is covering. To the left of the stairwell, the Protec system was chased in at a height of 150mm above the level of the stairs.The termination point of the waterproofing membrane was sealed with mastic to create a fully weatherproof detail. The Protec system was dressed onto the wall abutments to the main areas but left self-terminated as new render is to be applied to the walls and taken down over the top of the Protec system.After local reinforcements were completed the main waterproofing system was applied to the walkway and stair areas.The two-coat Protec system was able to be rapidly installed with its 30-60 minutes cure times, meaning the project was comfortably ahead of schedule by the time it was complete.Next, the designated anti-slip areas were carefully masked off, leaving the exposed waterproofing to the roof perimeters, detailing and vertical sides of the step and stairs. A third coat of Protec was applied to the masked sections and, whilst the liquid was still wet, 0.7-1.2mm quartz sand aggregate was broadcast into the resin.Once dried, the aggregate is embedded within the membrane and lose sand was brushed off and collected to be re-used. In order to provide an extra-tough surface that sealed that aggregate in place, a coating of PolyFinish was applied over the aggregate in the client’s choice of light grey.

The five-star Cameron House Hotel is set within 400 acres of beautiful Scottish countryside on the world-famous banks of Loch Lomond. The Hotel is the prestigious home to a collection of 140 bedrooms including 24 suites. The hotel offers a variety of dining experiences, including the Michelin starred restaurant Martin Wishart at Loch Lomond.When the flat roof areas above the main kitchen and the dining area began to leak, it was imperative that a rapid waterproofing solution could be found that could be installed without disturbing operations at the restaurants below.When the flat roof areas above the main kitchen and the dining area began to leak, it was imperative that a rapid waterproofing solution could be found that could be installed without disturbing operations at the restaurants below. The roof area itself was covered with an aged felt membrane that had been treated with a variety of localised repairs which could no longer prevent water ingress. A large amount of M & E plant was present throughout the roof, and any new waterproofing system would be required to seal the numerous stanchions and plinths in a fully weatherproof condition. After researching waterproofing systems online, Cameron House Hotel contacted Polyroof Technical Services for a recommended waterproofing solution that met their stringent criteria. Following discussions, the regional technical manager carried out a detailed roof survey of the roofs. The survey report formed the basis of a bespoke specification that covered a comprehensive set of recommendations to fully solve the roof’s problems.Polyroof Approved Contractor Skyform Roofing successfully tendered the project and the refurbishment works soon began. In order to avoid disruption to the hotel’s operations the existing roof coverings were retained as a substrate for the Protec system, without the need for stripping / replacement works. Due to the complex nature of the roof, works were carried out within a phased approach with the most problematic regions being refurbished first. Loose-laid M & E plant was relocated and the felt coverings cleaned and made good as required. The remaining roof details were then prepared as necessary before being primed ready to accept Polyroof’s cold liquid-applied Protec system.A key advantage of the Protec system for phased refurbishments is its speed of application and rapid curing. Unlike moisture-curing liquid systems, Protec forms a solid, extra-tough membrane that can be walked on 30 – 60 minutes after application. Not only does this reduce labour times and keep costs down, but crucially it allows the full system to be laid in it’s entirety in a matter of hours – rather than days. With its fibreglass reinforcement, the Protec resin is able to rapidly mould around any protrusion, stanchion, plinth or upstand to quickly form a totally seamless watertight seal – without the need for any time consuming cutting or patching work. This meant that the many complex roof details were able to be rapidly made waterproof, further reducing installation times.The contract monitoring undertaken by Polyroof Technical Services allowed the contractor and manufacturer to work effectively together to ensure the roofing solution delivered on all the client’s needs. The application by Skyform Roofing was completed to a very high standard with every roof detail meticulously sealed in a fully weatherproof condition.

Client: Rothschild FoundationLocation: Waddesdon, UKYear: 2023Project size: 100 m²Vebro systems: vebroflex Comfort UV PlusA resin floor was required to ensure a seamless visual transition between the floors and walls at a unique, 12 metre high, wedding-cake-shaped venue, colour matching perfectly to the vibrant pastel pallet of the tiles and sculptures adorning the exterior façade.Set in the beautiful English countryside in Buckinghamshire, Waddesdon Manor was built by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild to display his collection of arts and to entertain his friends.According to Rothschild Foundation, who manage the house, “The contemporary ethos of the estate looks to ensure all of its assets are cared for holistically and the past, present and future combine and are presented to the highest standard and level of inspection at all times”.Standing within a grove of trees on the estate of Waddesdon Manor, this ceramic sculptural pavilion – in the form of a three-tiered wedding cake – is the latest Rothschild Foundation commission from celebrated Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos.Aptly named Wedding Cake, over 25,000 gleaming, icing-like ceramic tiles decorate the cake – all made in a traditional Portuguese manufactory – glazed in pale pinks, greens, and blues.100 square metres of Vebro Polymers’ vebroflex Comfort UV Plus system was installed in two colours – RAL 6019 Pastel Green in the central area atrium with RAL 9010 Pure White around the perimeter.vebroflex Comfort UV Plus is a solid-coloured, UV-stable, elasticised, polyurethane liquid-vinyl resin that achieves up to 200% elongation at break. Once cured, the material delivers a smooth, matt-finish surface that deadens sound transfer between floors by up to 4Db. Additional sound absorption can be achieved with a liquid membrane or rubber matting.The cementitious screed was reinforced using vebroscreed R&S (Repair & Strengthen) to improve the compressive strength of the sand / cement screed.vebroscreed R&S is a transparent, solvent free, epoxy material used to penetrate fine crack and fissures in cement-based semi-dry cementitious levelling screeds – injecting additional strength and reinforcement prior to the installation of floor coverings.One of the most interesting aspects of the install involved an intricate mandala formed in brass, which was positioned in the centre of the lower atrium floor, creating a stunning central focal point underfoot for visitors.The pigmented aliphatic comfort resin was used to infill each of the brass trim petals using a large syringe. Each petal was meticulously injected one by one, taking a whole day to complete.Resin Flooring Specialists (RFS) are one of the UK’s leading resin flooring installers, based in Kent, and working throughout England.RFS works alongside the UK’s largest construction companies, as well as working direct for clients across a wide range of industry sectors.Mindful of slip resistance, cleaning, performance and aesthetics, RFS pride themselves on being able to deliver the right solution for all resin flooring needs no matter what the environment.RFS are members of the Resin Flooring Association – FeRFA – and Construction Line as well as being an Alcumus Safe Contractor and CHAS Accredited contractor.

Entering a building is usually the only way to find out what takes place inside. But that’s not the case with the Manchester Metropolitan University’s new School of Digital Arts (SODA). It acts as a giant canvas to illuminate digital content produced by students, thanks to an LED rainscreen façade on its northern face. The five-storey, 5,200m2 SODA building is adjacent to the Manchester School of Art and will provide space for a digital innovation and User Experience (UX) lab, film studios, green screens, edit suites, sound, music and production studios; alongside a screening room and gallery space. Like all rainscreen façade projects, the SODA building needed insulation to meet the required thermal, fire safety and acoustic performance, but the LED façade added complexity to the specification. The chosen rainscreen panels were perforated with small holes to allow the lights to shine through – but this also meant the insulation could be seen from certain angles, so the insulation needed to look aesthetically pleasing too. During the design process, architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios had specified Knauf Insulation’s Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab for the project. It is non-combustible with a Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification, so complies with building regulations that ban combustible insulation on certain buildings over 18m tall in England and Wales.  Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab also has a thermal conductivity of 0.034 W/mK so could meet the U-value of 0.19 Wm2K. And thanks to its sound absorption characteristics, critical for low mass rainscreen structures, it will help create a quieter space for the students. The principal contractor Kier Construction had tasked specialist façade contractors Maple Sunscreening with determining the required thickness and aesthetics. So they contacted Knauf Insulation to discuss the best solution.  Knauf Insulation’s Technical Support Team undertook 3D U-value calculations and confirmed that a 150mm slab should be used for the project.  What’s more, Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is manufactured with ECOSE® Technology, Knauf Insulation's unique bio-based binder that contains no added formaldehyde or phenol. This gives Knauf Insulation’s mineral wool its unique brown colour, so the insulation won’t stand out behind the perforated rainscreen panels. It also makes it soft to touch, easy to handle and generates low levels of dust and VOCs. As a result, products made with ECOSE® Technology have been awarded the Eurofins Gold Certificate for Indoor Air Comfort. Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is designed to be easy to install correctly. Slabs are robust which makes them easy to manoeuvre into place. Once in position, they butt tightly together and adapt to any imperfections in the substrate. This prevents unintended air gaps that can compromise thermal, fire safety or acoustic performance. Using Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab was the optimal solution for the SODA building providing both the high thermal, fire safety and acoustic performance demanded of modern buildings. And thanks to its unique brown colour, the mineral wool insulation won’t be a distraction, instead acting as the perfect backdrop for the dazzling LED light displays created by the students. 

The stunning state-of-the-art, multi-level, Better New Addington Leisure & Community Centre, designed by GT3 Architects for the London Borough of Croydon features buff brick cladding with 3D- textured detailing thanks to external cladding supplier Aquarian Cladding Systems.The project was part of the Southern Construction Framework and followed a string of work carried out by Willmott Dixon for the Borough. It was also home to the building contractor’s first Building Lives Academy, aimed at upskilling young people in the area and providing them with an opportunity to join the construction industry.Originally, another brick cladding system was specified for use, however due to the complexity of the stepped window frame detailing, the additional cladding support rail cost, the time it would take to install, and a lack of product warranty from the supplier, an alternative cladding system was sought to meet the programme and budget.To resolve the challenge, Aquarian and specialist cladding contractor Express Dry Lining, part of Aquarian’s Approved Installer Network, worked closely together to achieve an acceptable finish to match the specified material, which suited the local vernacular thus meeting the aesthetic, programme, and commercial requirements.Peter Head, Director of Express Dry Lining said: “The design and installation support of Aquarian helped us ensure that all stakeholders were supported throughout the process of material selection, buildability, component production and assembly to achieve a photogenic building free of defects which will last. This is one of those projects to be proud of for a very long time.” In addition, the solution had to be a cladding system that used brick slips which could also be produced as standard bricks to build landscaping planters and achieve a seamless ‘hit-and-miss’ brick feature in the façade. As an innovative, panelised, insulating brick cladding system, which has been successfully tested to BS8414 on five separate occasions and has an EN13501 fire rating of B, s1, d0, Gebrik was perfect, with Aquarian supplying 1126m2 to the project.To achieve the 3D features in accordance with the architect’s design brief, eighteen different panel and corner components were produced, 25% of which were bespoke and therefore project-specific.The expertise of Express Dry Lining in the setting out of the substrate ensured the 60mm thick ‘brick wallpaper’ is consistent across the entire façade with perp joint alignment across both the stretcher and stack bond panels. And their attention to detail in ensuring the system was cleaned down after pointing ensured the façade was completed on time and to everyone’s satisfaction. The finished project was completed six weeks ahead of the revised programme with Gebrik significantly contributing to the speed of construction and reduction in programme, leading to significant cost benefits elsewhere. The London Borough of Croydon is delighted with the quality of the completed building, with Councillor Oliver Lewis, cabinet member for culture, leisure, and sport, quoted as saying, “This is a stunning new centre with first-class facilities for everyone in New Addington to enjoy and be proud of.” Peter Head concluded by saying, “It is unlikely any other brick cladding solution could have been used as cost-effectively and efficiently as Gebrik to create a façade of such high quality.”

Project: Jodrell BankMain Contractor: Sir Robert McAlpine LtdSubcontractor/installer: Sound Interiors LtdArchitect: HassellProduct: SuperPhonOverall Project Value: £16 millionQuantity: 56 triangular and 26 circular acoustic raftsHassel Architects and Robert McAlpine contractors collaborate on The First Light Pavillion, nestled in the Cheshire countryside at Jodrell Bank. The educational centre with a focus on not only the future of our planet, but of our universe.Jodrell Bank and the First Light PavilionJodrell Bank is the northern heart of British space research thanks to the Lovell telescope, which at 3200 tonnes is one of the world’s largest radio telescopes. The site hosts the yearly science and music festival ‘BlueDot,’ named after one astronomer’s description of planet earth from space as a ‘pale blue dot.’ As the name suggests, the event aims to change the way we think about our planet, with huge mechanical sculptures made of recycled items created each year. It attracts scientists and speakers from around the world, including Brian Cox and Richard Dawkins, award-winning author of ‘The Selfish Gene.’Drawing on the history of Jodrell bank, Manchester University are now embarking on a long term project to introduce a younger generation to science. The team believe ‘A passion for science, sparked in childhood, can be the catalyst that leads to bold new discoveries and a better understanding of the world around us.’ In order to spark this passion, The First Light Pavilion will use immersive installations to tell the history of Jodrell bank and it’s place in science history. The space will accommodate speakers, school trips and conferences, and will bring visitors from all over the UK.Robert McAlpineLead contractor on this project, Robert McAlpine have an equally future facing outlook. They are best known for the internationally recognised Eden Project, an indoor tropical paradise made of a series of interlocking biomes designed to emulate rainforest conditions. Unseen on this scale anywhere else in the world, Robert McAlpine constructed the world largest scaffolding, using 230 miles of poles. As well as looking the part, the offices are also built from entirely recycled materials, and the centre aims to promote caring for our environment. In a similar vein to The First Light Pavilion, the site was specially built to accommodate learning, as well as large scale festivals and events.Hassell ArchitectsHassell Architect’s ethos is focused on science education, winning them two AIA awards for their work with James Cook’s University’s science department. They were highly praised for “making science visible, accessible and attractive,” to both students and the general public. The firm is also known for recognising the changing needs of educational spaces in the digital age. Many of their projects focus on multi-use spaces that can be used for socialising, group learning and conferences. They are based both the UK and Australia, and have led projects everywhere from Brighton to Brisbane, bringing an international flair to the idyllic Jodrell Bank site.CMS Danskin AcousticsCMS Danskin Acoustics describe themselves as experts in soundproofing solutions, and have a huge amount of well known projects to back this up. Many of their most inventive projects have been in partnership with SuperPhon, and showcase CMS Danskin Acoustics ability to create distraction-proof educational environments. Most recently they were involved in a reinvention of Teesside University Library. Tasked with breathing new life into the study space, CMS Danskin Accoustics suspended foam plates from the ceiling to emulate a rainforest retreat. The foam plates were specially designed with study in mind and dispersed sound, keeping interference at a minimum for the students below.The ProblemReverberation is consistently a problem in large educational spaces, affecting sound quality and causing distractions. With 20,000 schoolchildren expected through it’s doors each year, and countless speeches and workshops happening year round, reducing reverberation is of high priority for The First Light Pavilion. A useful measure for the effectiveness of any sound absorption solution is BB93: acoustic design of schools – performance standards. This details the level of sound absorption acceptable for a classroom environment. BB93 recommends reverberation time to be as little as 0.4 seconds, which should be used as the benchmark for this project.The SolutionIn a similar technique used at Teesside University, SuperPhon’s sound absorption rafts will be suspended from the ceiling of the pavilion. They will integrate into the design of the pavilion, as they can be cut to bespoke sizes, mirroring the night sky above. The panels are sound absorbent, made of a composite construction and covered in acoustically transparent woven textile fabric..The ResultReverberation should decrease to 60 decibels in less than half a second, as recommended by the BB93, making The First Light Pavilion the calming educational space it was designed to be. The building will be able to comfortably accommodate thousands of visitors each year with minimal noise disturbances, allowing guests to focus on the majesty of space and the world around us.

“How good is Knauf Insulation’s specification and technical support? Let’s put it this way, I’ve used Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab for every façade project since.”- Nikesh Patel, Façade Design Manager at A2O Cladding The Weald of Kent Grammar Annexe extension is a new three-storey satellite facility for Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys in Sevenoaks. It comprises state-of-the-art classrooms for a cohort of 90 boys. A2O Cladding were appointed by Willmott Dixon to deliver the technical design and installation of the façade, which is finished with a white and grey silicon render set against a red Corium brickslip façade. One of their first tasks was to finalise the insulation specification based on three key requirements: thermal performance, non-combustibility and sustainability. Meeting the thermal performance challenge The first factor, the thermal performance of the rainscreen façade system, initially proved more difficult than expected. Nikesh Patel, Façade Design Manager at A2O Cladding explained: “U-values provided by the architect for a rainscreen façade system are a bit belt and braces because they’re based on assumptions. So, once we’ve confirmed the sub-structure, we redo them to ensure they’re an accurate representation of the building’s thermal performance.”   “The problem is the manufacturer we were working with couldn’t deliver the U-value of 0.18 W/m2K because they didn’t have the right software.” For most applications, the simplified methodology used for calculating U-values is sufficient. But it is not recommended for rainscreen façade systems, because it does not take into account the complex interaction between the Steel Frame System (SFS) and the insulation. Instead, a blanket correction factor is applied, which can lead to the over-specification of insulation – as it had in this case. To prevent this, 3D U-value calculations should be used. They thermally model the build-up based on the complex interaction between the insulation and the rails and brackets. This ensures greater accuracy giving the specifier a true picture of how the build-up will perform after construction, so it matches its design. But most manufacturers don’t have the capability to undertake these complex calculations in-house, so outsource the service to a third party at a cost to the contractor. Before they went down this route, A2O Cladding asked project architect Bond Bryan for advice, who suggested they contact Knauf Insulation.  “We’d not used Knauf Insulation before so didn’t know the standard of their technical support. The biggest tick in the box was they do free 3D U-value calculations – it really helped to keep the project on track.”  Using these calculations, the Knauf Insulation Technical Support Team recommended Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab for the façade insulation. The product has a thermal conductivity of 0.034 W/mK and crucially, a depth of just 150mm would meet the required U-value.  They also recommended 150mm of Rocksilk® EWI Slab with a thermal conductivity of 0.036 W/mK to insulate the rendered external walls. A2O Cladding also decided to use Knauf Insulation’s OmniFit® Slab 35 to insulate the junctions at roof level to ensure continuity of insulation. Fire safety at every height All three products have the best possible Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification, so will not contribute to the development or spread of fire, should it occur. This meant they met the second specification factor, non-combustibility.  “The Annexe extension is under 18m tall but that would never influence our choice of insulation material. The A2O ethos is that we don’t touch combustible stuff when there are suitable non-combustible solutions available. I mean why would you introduce that risk? Using Mineral Wool insulation gives us, and the school peace of mind.”  Patel goes on to explain that Willmott Dixon has a reputation for quality and will only authorise the use of tested and certified systems. “As the façade contractor, it’s our job to ensure the quality of the supply chain. The fact that Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is BBA certified for use in high rise buildings and for so many different build-ups meant it met the rigorous standards demanded for the project.” A focus on sustainability But choosing suppliers isn’t just about performance and fire safety. The third factor in the specification process was sustainability.  “As we finalise the technical design, we need to provide Willmott Dixon with a Technical Submittal for every product, and this includes details of its green credentials. It was another example of how Knauf Insulation makes things simple for contractors. They have EPDs for every product and all the relevant ISO standards, so our insulation specification sailed through.” As well as producing products that improve the thermal efficiency of buildings, Knauf Insulation has been taking steps to reduce the carbon footprint of its products. One example of this is its unique bio-based binder, ECOSE® Technology, which contains no added formaldehyde or phenol. ECOSE® Technology is made from natural raw materials that are rapidly renewable and is 70% less energy-intensive to manufacture than traditional binders, so it is more environmentally friendly. From technical support to performance and sustainability, Knauf Insulation scored top marks in all categories – which meant that A2O Cladding didn’t need to compromise on any of their specification requirements or criteria. 

The Hurlford Avenue new build project, situated on the former Garscadden Primary School site, truly harnesses innovation and design. This ‘Modern Methods of Construction’ project, completed in partnership with CCG, showcases technical prowess and constructional excellence.Garscadden Primary School closed back in 2017 but the 1930s school building remained standing. Spotting the potential for something impressive on the site, Glasgow Housing Association proposed a modern replacement – a portfolio of properties.The key requirement was to build modern, energy efficient homes which would provide much-needed affordable housing in the sought-after area of Dumbarton and make a significant difference to the local community.After extensive planning, focusing on matching an appropriate insulation system with a complementary finish, K Systems devised a comprehensive delivery plan using our unrivalled experience and expertise.CCG fabricated the building off-site with timber kits and incorporated elements from our Aricco system, with the final finish being completed on-site. This approach was advantageous for a few reasons, including the speed of construction and a reduction in required labour.Hurlford Avenue is a prime example of our experience with off-site modular builds and our project-specific approach to EWI solutions. We brought Glasgow Housing Association’s vision to life and delivered 28 houses and 42 flats for mid-market rent.Our ServiceThe build of the Hurlford Avenue development wasn’t without its challenges. Precision planning was required to ensure minimal disruption to the residents in surrounding estates. All traffic ways remained free for passage and noise pollution was kept to a minimum.During the build, our team encountered some detailing challenges. However, working directly with the contractor and main contractor, these challenges were quickly resolved by key colleagues within our Technical Team, and the build remained on schedule and of the highest quality.From specification and design to planning, delivery and evaluating, our team transformed a derelict site to a contemporary multi-dwelling development that rejuvenated the Dumbarton area.“I would like to thank everyone on the K Systems technical support team for their contribution in accomplishing the Aricco System project at Hurlford Avenue. The regular visits from senior technicians always go a long way to keeping any project in check and it makes the job of our management much easier by having honest, professional judgement to go back to our guys, with well earned praise on this occasion. Everyone was onboard from the outset in working around any potential difficulties and you will agree it shows in the final results.”Garry Barton, Contractor.Technical Project DetailsAs the client of this project, Scotland based construction company CCG, approached K Systems to provide a suitable façade solution that would complement their design. A build with timber kits and a drained ventilated cavity system was specified, along with a silkolitt thin coat render finish.CCG are renowned for off-site manufacturing (OSM) and manufactured the kits from their production site in near-by Cambuslang. They sourced the correct material according to our exact specification. CCG’s ‘iQ’ System was chosen, which is designed with a fabric-first approach where greater tolerances are determined by fewer junctions and thermal bridges to deliver enhanced U-values and significantly improve airtightness. By incorporating OSM and the iQ system into this project, it is just a small insight into our unrivalled knowledge and expert approach that we take to fulfil the requirements of our clients.For the supporting façade, the K Systems Aricco system was specified - a drained ventilated cavity system perfectly suited for use in low rise buildings, particularly new build projects and timber framed construction. The Aricco system is also the most compatible with offsite/modular construction techniques and boasts an A2-s1, d0 fire rating and therefore complies with the latest building regulations, ensuring the safety of all residents.The finish was just as important as the façade system, with the cost-effective, industry-leading Silkolitt thin coat render specified. Silkolitt renders provide a contemporary finish to new-build applications, something this project very much required to modernise the area. Silkolitt is simple to apply, and its hydrophobic properties makes the render low maintenance. It also has excellent vapour permeability, allowing the Hurlford Avenue properties to breathe and avoid interstitial condensation. It is the most flexible system on the market, making cracking over its lifetime less likely and therefore delivering a pleasing aesthetic with outstanding longevity.The combinations specified by the K Systems team resulted in the build of impressive dwellings boasting a U-value of 0.13W/m ² K – meaning homes were easier and cheaper to heat, a particularly attractive benefit given the current cost of living crisis.

Sector: Built-to-rent accommodation (mix of affordable and commercial rental)Client: Populo LivingArchitect: dRMMMain contractor: Bugler Developments Specified for:Good cost / quality ratioSustainable window frame constructionFaçade-specific performanceExcellent design supportThe Didsbury, in London’s East Ham, is a high quality ‘Built-to-Rent’ development offering an equal mix of affordable and market rent apartments. Designed by Stirling Prize-winning architects dRMM for Newham’s housing company Populo Living, and built by main contractor Bugler, The Didsbury comprises 148 apartments in two six-storey new-build blocks which sit south of the former East Ham Town Hall Annexe, which is being refurbished. Smart interior design is matched by a highly distinctive exterior featuring brick and gold clad facades. VELFAC 200 windows, patio doors and entrance doors are installed in every apartment to provide both a quality finish and impressive low energy and low maintenance performance. Windows, doors and Juliette balconiesEvery apartment features a combination of VELFAC windows and patio doors (leading to a balcony or terrace) and inward opening, tilt/turn VELFAC IN glazed doors. These are used to create Juliette balconies, with balcony fittings integrated within the VELFAC frame to simplify subsequent railing installation. As every apartment features a range of interior materials, inner VELFAC timber frames are painted white to create a neutral and low maintenance finish ideal for rented apartments. External aluminium frames are finished in a dark grey polyester-powder coating to complement to both the brick walls and gold cladding. VELFAC also supplied head pressings to match the window sills, thereby ensuring a neat and consistent finish at both top and bottom. Our ‘go to’ composite glazing brandHaving successfully used VELFAC products on earlier projects dRMM was happy to specify the system for The Didsbury: ‘VELFAC has become our ‘go to’ brand when specifying composite glazing,’ says Findlay McFarlane, Architect at dRMM. ‘The system offers a good cost to quality ratio, and the frame design results in low embodied carbon, primarily due to the percentage of recycled aluminium used. This was important for Populo Living’s sustainability targets, and for dRMM as we champion climate-conscious architecture and the use of natural wood, which again is a feature of the VELFAC frame.’ Main contractor Bugler Developments was also happy with the specification: ‘We knew from the outset that we would be using the VELFAC system, and as we had used it before we knew it would meet our client’s requirements,’ comments Thomas Bugler, Head of Marketing. First discussed in 2015, The Didsbury has been a long and complex build. VELFAC, however, is one of the few suppliers to remain with the project from start to finish, thanks to the quality of the system and the expertise provided at every stage build. ‘We liaised with VELFAC right from the start of the project, through the detailed design stage, procurement and eventually to installation on site, with amendments and updates included along the way when necessary,’ says Thomas. ‘The project’s sustainability and affordability targets became more challenging due to this long planning phase,’ adds Findlay, ‘but the VELFAC system continued to meet the specification as it evolved.’ Technical support above and beyondWhile The Didsbury’s minimalist exterior may look sleek and simple, specification was in fact very complex, comments Findlay, and required expert input from the VELFAC team: ‘The stepped façade and variety of façade-specific performance targets meant that not all floors had an identical specification,’ he explains. ‘In addition, while VELFAC double glazing met all low energy targets, we needed to fit acoustic trickle vents into road-facing windows and ensure lower floors and balconies had windows with Secured by Design accreditation.’ Issues regarding weathering within the gold cladding also needed attention, comments Thomas: ‘This required some on site consultation with the VELFAC team, and updated detailing to ensure the end result was compliant and of the right quality - we are very pleased with the finish, and the windows and doors work well within the overall development.’ In fact, VELFAC support made a significant contribution to the success of the whole project says Findlay: ‘We worked closely with VELFAC on detailed drawings for the windows and doors, and were impressed with the level of support provided – more than that typically provided by a supplier, and another reason why we like to use the VELFAC system when we can. The thoroughness of the detailing meant there were fewer surprises when it came to installation, helping us keep on schedule during the final build and installation phase.’

The Rhondda Heritage Park is a renowned tourist destination in South Wales, offering a glimpse into the coal mining community that thrived in the area for over 130 years until the early 1980s. Every year, thousands of visitors take a guided tour led by former colliery workers to experience the life of coal miners.The Heritage Park takes great pride in its appearance and the local heritage it represents. However, the aging asphalt roof terraces that covered the old mine shafts had been leaking constantly, damaging the visual appeal of the visitor site.The ChallengeThe Polyroof technical team was called in to help with the waterproofing and refurbishment of the two roof terraces, measuring over 1100m², that protected the underground mining attraction. After conducting a thorough survey of the roof terrace areas, a customized specification was prepared. This specification included a comprehensive set of recommendations for addressing the issues that had caused the aged and worn condition of the terrace areas over the years. To support the proposal, additional information was provided to the client to demonstrate how a liquid system could seamlessly encase and waterproof the terraces while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing solution that was true to the authenticity of the site.Satisfied that the solution proposed would provide the long-term peace of mind they were looking for, the Heritage Park awarded the contract to RM Polymers Ltd.Before starting the work, any areas affected by fungal growth or moss were treated with Polykill Anti-Fungal Wash to eliminate all spores. Any holes in the asphalt were smoothed out or removed, and levelled using Polyroof Structural Repair Mortar. All large cracks and voids were cleaned and repaired using the same mortar.PVC protrusions were removed and surfaces were cleaned with acetone. Any damaged, loose, or unsound concrete or brickwork was removed and repaired using Polyroof Structural Repair Mortar. All repairs were allowed to cure and dry before priming.The SolutionOne of the main features of the tourist attraction is the mining carts that were used to transport coal around the mine tunnels during its operation. Similar to train tracks, the mining cart tracks are fixed into the ground using metal bolts and fixings which over time had become a weak point for water ingress. Concrete and sandstone had been used as a “quick fix” to prevent rainwater entering the mine shaft below but a long-term solution was now needed. The cement and sandstone was carefully chiselled from the rails, exposing the original metal tracks which were then lifted and abraded back to their original condition. Whilst lifted, the underlying surface was made good before the application of the Protec System. Railway sleepers were then laid on a sacrificial layer on top of the waterproof membrane, upon which the tracks and mining carts were re-instated.As the terraces are constantly trafficked by the general public, the client was clear that an anti-slip finish would be required on any walkway areas.Following the application of the Protec System, Polyfinish and Quartz Sand Anti-Slip was applied to all walkway areas, to provide slip resistance and surface protection. A 50mm margin around the perimeters of the terrace was masked off to provide a neat termination of the anti-slip finish. Ensure masking tape was removed whilst resin was still wet. Then a third coat of Protec Resin was applied at a minimum coverage rate of 0.5Litres/m² (2.0m²/Litre) and whilst wet, clean dried quartz sand (0.7 – 12mm) was broadcast at an approximate coverage rate of 4.0kg/m². Once cured, the loose sand was removed.WorkmanshipThe engine houses along the tour experience featured vast amounts of intricate details and unique items and structures, such as “Bertie and Trefor” – the names given by the mine owner to the mine head stock wheels. This presented an exceptional challenge, particularly in regards to the difficulty of working on the intricate details of the degraded mastic asphalt upstands and decking.As a result of many years of weathering and gravity, the vertical sections of asphalt on the raised terraced roof had slumped and rippled, leading to stress cracks and ultimately water ingress. To overcome this ugly problem, the asphalt was stripped from these vertical sections back to the concrete and removed from site in accordance with the Health and Safety policies in place. The contractor then installed new 18mm OSB3 to these areas to create a flat substrate for the Protec System. The incorporation of Polyroof pre-formed GRP Drip trims at the bottom of the OSB3 ensured the timber would not be exposed to any rain water in the future as well as provide a neat, edge detail.To keep the overall aesthetic feel of the site, the application of the liquid waterproofing system at wall abutments was critical. This, combined with the undulating nature of the stone and brickwork meant that the contractor would not be able to install a cover flashing or termination bar. Instead, the contractor carefully dressed the system onto the wall to the standard minimum 150mm upstand height and into a chase.The edging was then finished with a mortar to provide a neat and clean weatherproof finish, in-keeping with the traditional methods of the site at the time of its construction.The roof terraces that cover the old mining areas also act as the main walkways to the Heritage Centre’s tour routes. Therefore, one of the main challenges of the project was the complex planning of the works to ensure that the site continued to operate so not to financially impact the heritage park. It was imperative that works were complete within an 8-week period with 17,500 visitors booked in for their annual Santa’s Grotto Experience Tour beginning in early December.The application speed of the catalyst cured Protec System, combined with communication between the contractor and the site to ensure unobtrusive installation, meant the centre stayed open and the tours running with minimum disruption.The benefits of using a fast-curing liquid waterproofing solution were also vital due to the ever-changing micro-climate in the Welsh valleys. On any single day, the weather would serve up anything from bright sunshine to windy, rainy conditions. Therefore, the fast-curing Protec System, combined with the flexibility of the installation team, who gave up weekends when required, ensured the project was finished on schedule. The works were completed to an extremely high standard with full encapsulation of the roof terrace areas and without a single detail being left exposed to the elements.ConclusionThe unique aspects of this project certainly kept the team on their toes. But they were determined to complete the project on time.The team worked tirelessly, even giving up their weekends to ensure that the project was completed on schedule. Despite the harsh Welsh weather, they pushed on and were determined to make sure that Santa could visit the children of the Welsh Valleys. It was a challenging project but the team’s hard work and dedication paid off.Finally, the project was completed and the results were astounding. The roof terraces are now fully waterproofed and refurbished, and the visual appearance of the visitor site was greatly improved. It was a project that was both memorable and rewarding to all those involved.

Date of Project: September 2017Project Owner: Cairns Regional CouncilProject Contractor: Waterstop Solutions Pty, LtdProject Engineer: Cairns Regional Council Market/Environment WastewaterSubstrate: ConcreteSize of Project: 12 x 2m joint replacementTHE CHALLENGEThe joints on a municipal wastewater treatment tank had degenerated to the point where repairing and resealing were necessary. Cairns Regional Council required a product with a fast cure time and rapid compressive strength gains.Five Star® SolutionFive Star Structural Concrete® V/O was selected due to its rapid set and high early strength gains; it reaches 2,500 psi (17.2 MPa) within three hours. This rapid strength gain allowed for the repaired joints to be resealed with minimum turnaround time in preparation for the installation of a joint sealant system.ABOUT FIVE STAR STRUCTURAL CONCRETE® V/OThis is a high-strength, rapid-setting, one-component, permanent concrete repair material for vertical and overhead structural repairs.It produces a repair that is dimensionally stable, develops an integral bond to existing concrete, and restores structural integrity within hours of placement.Provides increased corrosion protection to steel-reinforced structures with migrating corrosion inhibitor technology and very low chloride ion permeability. Moisture-sensitive coatings can be applied in 8 to 24 hours.Can be troweled vertically or overheadOne product for thin and thick placementExcellent freeze/thaw resistanceOutstanding corrosion resistance for protection and rehabilitation

Located in the commercial heart of Belfast, Donegall Place, formerly a bank building, has been part of the city landscape for over 50 years. The 5-storey building expands over 82000 square ft and is comprised of both office and retail space, part of which has been the home to Boots since the 70s.Project Year: 2021Architect: GM Design AssociatesProduct: ASSA ABLOY RD100-3 Wing Revolving doorProject Background: In 2017, the Architect obtained planning approval to extend and refurbish the building and upgrade lobby areas, shop fronts and facades including the main entrance. Looking to install an EN16005 compliant manual activated revolving door with integrated air curtain, the main contractor, Graham Construction, got in touch FAAC Entrance Solutions to submit their proposal for this project.Solution: FAAC presented the RD100 Revolving Door as the best product for this entrance, not only for representing a more cost-effective solution, but also by installing a power assisted automatic door rather than a manual one, made for a safer and more user-friendly entrance, thus providing better value overall. With built in LED lighting and finished in Matt Graphite Grey, the new door complete with COBA Plan.a, the most durable entrance matting, now forms part of the modern and welcoming new entrance of 35DP. For more information or assistance with any project, please contact enquiries.esuk@faactechnologies.com where we can provide expert guidance and detailed documentation.All Pictures by Donal McCann Photography

Bradfield College, located in the heart of Berkshire, is a school for 13-18 year olds, providing an 'education for life'.Set up in 1892, the school has its own church as part of the grounds, which has remained closed for a number of years.However, work has been completed recently to connect the church to the school, and convert it into a learning hub for academic purposes - providing students with the space to work individually or collectively to further their learning, preparing them for life in the 21st century.ChallengeNationwide metal & single ply roofing contractors Salmon Solutions provided the solution when it came to the cladding - using elZinc® standing seam cladding in Rainbow Gold to elevate the cladding, giving a sophisticated modern feel to the metal and glass exterior.SolutionTo get a secure fix, Salmon Solutions turned to use Fixfast SPIDI® Max brackets and rails as part of the vertical cladding solution. SPIDI Max brackets are versatile to be used in a wide range of applications, as well as being suitable for horizontal or vertical applications - one bracket for both fixed and sliding points, and available in 3 material grades: aluminium, A2/304 stainless steel, or A4/316 stainless steel."We have a great working relationship with Fixfast and use their products on the majority of our projects. Fixfast - as always - were reliable and efficient with both service and the technical info, which allowed us to incorporate not just their fixings but the SPIDI helping hand system into this project."Charlie Whitman - Salmon Solutions Ltd

Hush Acoustics provided an acoustic solution for the Aviation Academy in Norwich as part of its project to transform the building through the creation of an innovative learning environment. Based within a World War 2 aircraft hangar, home to a museum, cafe and now classrooms, catering for pupils and youth organisations as well as holding events and conferences, this academy accommodates a wide variety of uses and needs. Hanson Barron and Smith Architects worked on the design of the custom facility, with the aim to create a mezzanine floor within the atrium on which classrooms would be created.The atrium itself holds conferences that can accommodate over 300 people, so in order to ensure the acoustics within the building were fit for purpose, a site visit was conducted to assess how the required acoustic standards could be achieved.On visiting the site, an acoustic concern within the building was the footfall noise being created from the mezzanine floor.The solution proposed after calculating the requirements of the areas was 1500m2 of Hush Panel 17, which would be fitted over the structural plywood deck.Hush Panel 17 is a thin overlay board which minimises floor build-up without compromising performance. By reducing impact sound transmission through the separating floors, it achieves excellent results, with the upper layer of moisture resistant MDF providing a consistently smooth surface for application of floor finishes.Working with Robert Goss from Hanson Barron and Smith and RG Carter who were the main contractors on site, over 2000 sheets of Hush Panel 17 were supplied and fitted to the area.

Hush Acoustics were tasked with providing a solution to reduce an impact noise issue on the upper floor of a luxury five-bedroom detached home in Knutsford, Cheshire.Home to a professional football player, the issue stemmed from the noise on the flooring of his snooker room. Impact noise from footsteps when using the room was generating nuisance noise within the living area directly below, which was making it difficult for others in the family to enjoy this space.Working with Short Construction, building contractors based in Wilmslow, Hush supplied 167x sheets of our Hush Panel 33 to solve the issue. This is a versatile, high performing acoustic flooring which is widely used in timber construction, making it ideal for the timber separating floors in this property.With a combination of our eco-friendly acoustic felt and our rubber barrier mat, the Hush Panel 33 performs to all UK Building Regulation requirements as well as the Robust Detail performance targets for timber frame developments. Its unique composition makes it easy to install and quick to use.The product works by creating a high mass barrier and isolating the floor finish from the structure. As the nuisance noise issue in this situation was due to impact noise, it was key to introduce a high performing acoustic floor product to break the connection of the floor finish from the structure. This, in turn, improved the impact performance of noise transmission through the floor structure, giving the client the desired effect and enabling him to use the snooker room as intended.

A former pub located in the heart of Taporley village, Cheshire, has been converted into a luxury health and welbeing centre, featuring a state-of-the-art-gym, treatment rooms and apartments for staff use. Instinct Gym and Wellbeing aims to help improve the health and mental wellbeing of the local community through new initiatives. When it came to selection the best floor coverings, having worked with JA Flooring on previous projects  Enigma Holdings Group, the owners of the building, called upon the flooring contractor once more. As aesthetics and durability were key objectives of the project, JA Flooring advised the use of an array of solutions from Forbo Flooring Systems’ portfolio including its Allura luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), which played a significant role in the renovation works.The natural wood and stone aesthetic, combined with the benefits of strong, comfortable vinyl tiles, meant that Allura was installed in the gym, treatment rooms, spin studios and circulation areas. In the treatment rooms where a more serene surrounding was required, Allura Wood in the Whitewash Elegant Oak colourway was used.In the entrance and reception area, a bespoke Coral Logo entrance flooring mat was produced to reinforce the Instinct Gym and Wellbeing branding – helping to create that all important first impression, whilst offering protection in extreme traffic conditions and maximum functional performance.Finally, Tessera Earthscape carpet tiles in Iceberg were installed in the apartments; and in the changing facilities and kitchens, the Surestep range in various neutral colourways helped to complement the overall sophisticated interior of the health and wellbeing centre.

Client: Northacre Consultant: Vinci Technology Centre Main Contractor: Multiplex Main Product Used: Emseal ColorsealThe development of The Broadway creates six buildings on a plan designed to frame views of the Grade-1 listed 55 Broadway across from Victoria Street in Westminster, providing residential, office and retail workspace and a new public space linking Victoria Street with Broadway and Dacre Street. The new building elevations were specifically designed “to reference the local vernacular in the rhythm of facades”, using materials sympathetic to the traditional sandstone and brick of the adjacent historic Conservation Area. The façades and their constituent precast panels were therefore a critical element in the design and construction process, as was ensuring that the joints between them could safely accommodate the anticipated thermal and any other structural movements, whilst always maintaining a watertight seal. This was further complicated by the façade design and necessary construction tolerances, meaning that the joints varied in width, resulting in high joint movement capability demands. A test programme was established with Vinci Testing Houses to determine the most suitable joint solution available to meet these challenges in detail - and the clear winner was Emseal Colorseal. This is a unique, preformed, double-sided, silicone-faced movement joint sealing system, that is bonded in position without invasive metal anchoring. Colorseal is CE-marked and ETA-certified to provide a watertight seal with 100% joint movement capability, thermal insulation, UV stability, and colour coordination with vertical or horizontal substrates.  

The landmark Health Innovation One building is an innovation hub offering co-location space for external organisations as well as being the new home for Lancaster University’s Medical School and Division of Health Research. The space is designed to encourage collaboration, where external organisations can draw upon the University’s expertise to address significant health challenges and improve health and wealth outcomes in the region and beyond.Architects John McAslan + Partners sought to realise the University’s ambition to establish itself as a major international presence in the field of Health and Medicine through the design of this new HIC. JMP’s campus masterplan will bring together businesses, the NHS, students and academics from a broad range of disciplinary backgrounds. Central to this campus is the Innovation Hub, representing phase one of the development.The scheme comprises a café, quiet reading areas, private meeting rooms, open breakout zones and a business lounge for more formal conversations. Close consultation with the University’s Faculty of Health and Medicine has resulted in a scheme that offers maximum flexibility, the promotion of interdisciplinary working and collaboration, the provision of exceptional working and learning environments, and a holistic building design that is sustainable and energy efficient, targeting an ‘Outstanding’ BREEAM standard.To achieve this performance for the £3M glazing package, fabricator Alucraft working to main contractor BAM Construct, utilised Metal Technology’s System 17 Curtain Walling in a bronze anodised finish and from our Thermal ranges, System 5-20D Doors and 5-20 windows.

The ChallengeNo. 1 Horgan’s Quay is one of the development’s three office buildings, with the upper floors of the new modern structure cantilevered over the site’s original Goods Shed. The lobby area features a large glazed partition on the first floor, helping to create an open, light space, as well as sympathetically blending the old restored structure with the new.KCC Group, a door and glazing contractor, were appointed to deliver the EI30 SWS Screen works on the project. Site Contracts Manager, Ger McNamee, said: “In order to ensure the safety of those within the building, 30-minute fire protection was required for the reception area, providing a fire barrier between the lobby and the first floor. Once we had the fire safety glass specification from the architect, O’Mahony Pike Architects, it was up to our team at KCC Group to source a supplier – this is when our relationship with Pyroguard began.”The SolutionTo ensure that the desired aesthetic was achieved, while also meeting building safety regulations, Pyroguard Infinity T-EI30/24-2 SWS fire safety glass was chosen by KCC Group and installed in the glazed partition, within a Jansen steel profile system.Pyroguard Infinity is a range of fire safety glass certified for butt-joint applications. With no vertical frame profiles required, it’s the ideal solution for providing visually appealing seamless partitions. Manufactured to EI classification, Pyroguard Infinity provides the highest level of integrity and heat insulation, protecting against flames, smoke and heat.

Client: Bruntwood Estates Specialist Contractor: Grade-2 Structural Repairs Main Products Used: Emseal SJS SystemThis busy, multi-storey, prime location, car park is located between Manchester United’s Old Trafford Football Stadium, Lancashire’s Old Trafford Cricket Ground and Trafford House, a 12-Storey commercial development. The businesses use the car park during the week and then it is reserved for MUFC fans on matchdays and weekends. The car park was undergoing scheduled structural inspection, when it was discovered that the traditional compression joints were failing in the wide structural movement joints on the access ramps. This meant they were now leaking and allowing water ingress, which could lead to damaging salt deposits on expensive vehicles, as well as potential corrosion and damage to the reinforced concrete decks and the structural frame itself. These joints needed to be made watertight and accommodate significant horizontal and vertical movement, as well as traffic impact and weathering. The engineers looked for a solution that could safely repair and seal the joints, but with only minimal ramp closure or downtime, and the Emseal SJS System was selected as the ideal solution, as it could be installed in just two short, phased closures at weekends, when there were no home games. In the first weekend, with only one lane closed, the failed compression joint was removed and the joint arrisses made good with fast setting resin, then on the next weekend closure, the bespoke lengths of Emseal SJS were installed with access only required from above.  

PROJECT OVERVIEW IQE, the leading supplier of advanced wafer products and material solutions to the semiconductor industry, planned a £100million investment to create a state-of-the-art semiconductor facility over the next ten years. The works were undertaken on the old LG site in Newport, which had stood redundant for twenty years. The new compound semiconductor wafer foundry is set up at the site as part of the Welsh Government’s commitment to creating the world’s first ‘semiconductor cluster.’We were first engaged by the architects Atkins, who was looking for a system that could be installed to expeditated programme but still achieve the GMP standards, including ISO 4 to ISO 7 cleanrooms. Atkins saw the Norwood Mediline partition 60min fire rated system as the perfect solution, allowing the build to be prefabricated and modulated, however still giving their second fix subcontractors full access to the partition void, which included gases and electrical works. We worked closely with Atkins, developing a design that could be installed quickly but maintained a high quality and specification.  During the construction phase, we worked closely with the appointed principal contractors, CMB Engineering. The project was delivered on time and recognised in Wales by winning the Constructing Excellence awards. Norwood’s relationship with CMB Engineering and Atkins has continued to grow, securing several future projects with the team.As part of our scope, we designed, manufactures and installed our Medline solid and glazed partitions, walk on ceiling and fire rated single and double doors.

As part of the £25 million Wolverhampton Academy Trust sponsored Bilston Academy, BCL are proud to have been part of the overall process. This project was delivered through the BSF programme by Carillion PLC and was designed by Capita. The academy was designed with the ability to deliver a modern multi-disciplinary education centre for the 1200 students of Wolverhampton Academy in mind. The building is made up of 4 differently themed zones, a dedicated engineering hub, a science super-lab and a combination of grass and astro-turf sports pitches.Using 69 x 44 mm of Siberian Larch, the external walls were covered, with the timber installed vertically at 100 mm to form an open screen detail across the building, including the plant room and roof areas. Each slat was treated to Class 0 SSF, using the non-com impregnation system from Lonza Wood Protection. In doing this, BCL ensured the building would have complete fire protection for its entire life without requiring any maintenance.As per all BCL panel systems everything was designed and pre-fabricated off site into a panellised system, fitted using secret fixings. Installation time was dramatically reduced along with on-site waste, meaning the 3000 m2 envelope was constructed quickly and efficiently.Client: Wolverhampton AcademyArchitect: CapitaContractor: Carillion PLCLocation: WolverhamptonCompletion: April 2013 Siberian LarchFSC CertifiedSecret FixingsClass 0 SSF

ObjectiveDurkan was established in 1970, the company has grown from a small, family contractor to become a leading construction and development company in London and the Home Counties.Durkan were contracted to construct 55 new build apartments on Amelia Street, London. They required a bathroom product that was easy to install and simple to clean but without comproming on decor choice, Nuance ticked all the boxes.Bushboard have been developing kitchen and bathroom surfaces in the UK since 1935, with the idea that everyone deserves a great design whatever their budget.ObservationThe Nuance product was recommended to Durkan Ltd and once they had researched it themselves they were pleased with the variety available.‘Nuance provided a solution in a variety of colours and finishes which were attractive to our clients.’Nuance is all about great design with a flexible and integrated approach for all bathroom layouts.Whether your design calls for wall hung, semi-recessed or the latest sit-on basins, the range offers co-ordinated or matching surfaces in laminate or luxurious solid surface.OutcomeDurkan specified ‘Ice’ surfaces creating a stylish, sleek finish to their bathrooms.A laminate worksurface gives a smart and integrate design look with little maintenance required.‘No challenges occured during the installation process, it was straightforward.’The Nuance worksurfaces give a real flexibility to shape the perfect bathroom along with peace mind of with a three year joint guarantee when installed with Bushboard’s BB Complete adhesive and sealant.For more information about the Bushboard products, request a RIBA CPD, download an NBS specification or order samples visit www.bushboard.co.uk

This amazing swimming pool refurbishment project in Knutsford, Cheshire was undertaken by Abstract Pools Ltd. Tiles from Designworks and more than 100 JACKOBOARD® construction boards were used.Manufactured with an extruded polystyrene (XPS) foam core and a special coating on both sides, JACKOBOARD® construction boards form an ideal base for tiling. The surfaces of the JACKOBOARD® system provide an extremely strong bond and can be used on virtually any substrate. The boards are waterproof, thermally insulating, truly lightweight and very strong. This combination of characteristics makes them ideal for pool hall work. The result of this refurbishment is absolutely stunning and the owners of the property are delighted unsurprisingly.The owner was abroad while the renovation was carried out. The pool was situated in the basement of the house and had been left empty for a few years. The contractor was tasked with refurbishing the pool hall and bringing it back to life. They stripped everything back to the existing substrate, and then rendered and screeded the pool itself, the jacuzzi and the pool surrounds.A new steam room was added, using JACKOBOARD®. All of the pool hall walls were lined with JACKOBOARD®, ready to receive tiles. All tiles on this project were supplied by Designworks Tiles, the specialists in tiles and mosaics for swimming pools and spas. The tiles used on the project were Ezarri Lisa Black Mosaic for the pool tank, District Grey 1200x600x10mm for the pool hall walls, District Dark Grey for the pool coping tiles and District silver 600x600x10mm for the pool floor surround

Cemfloor was chosen for this project due to its compatibility with the various types of high-end luxury floor coverings and for its reduced drying time which allowed the project to proceed with the installation of the flooring without any disruptions.Multiplex were the main contractors for this project, with the screed installed by Progressive Group Limited.The new ten-storey residential building features 221 apartments from studio suites up to four-bedroom penthouses, exquisitely designed by PLP Architecture. Lincoln Square features London’s unparalleled residential amenities space of 17,000 square feet (1600 square meters) by world-class designer Patricia Urquiola.Lincoln Square overlooks the LSE library, the former Land Registry Building, New Square Chambers and the Royal Courts of Justice opened by Queen Victoria in 1882. The views of St Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard and the Gherkin showcase the glorious London skyline.Cemfloor is a high-performance cement based liquid screed which provides the ideal solution for the domestic floor market. Its flowing properties make it easy and fast to install, and yet it is based on cement and therefore has none of the concerns inherent with other flowing screeds. There are no special measures required before applying adhesives or floor finishes to it and, it dries relatively quickly when compared to other flowing or “ordinary” screed materials.The limited space available on site was also a factor to be considered and was resolved by using Cemfloor Screed. It was delivered to the site ready mixed which eliminated the need of on-site mixing and storage of sand and cement on site

AG is proud to have played an intrinsic part in the redevelopment of the Curragh Racecourse in Co Kildare – Irish racing’s biggest ever capital development project, which opened to the public in May at an estimated cost of over €80 million.AG supplied TerraPave® flagstones in Genoa (Ground and Textured) to internal and external areas of the new grandstand and outer buildings. The internal flags for Phase 2 were Genoa Ground 600×400, manufactured with a square edge. Internally, AG also supplied made-to-order steps with strip inserts and a unique notch to the underside to improve safety.The external flags were Genoa Textured 600×400, which were used on the external balcony areas of the stand.“At a site meeting with the client, John Sisk & Sons (main contractor), Grimshaw Architects from London and NMA Architects from Dublin, it became clear that AG were the sole company that could meet all the criteria for all parties,” said Brendan Reynolds, Specifications & Commercial Sales Consultant.“The original specification was for natural granite, but time, costs and consistency of colour became issues for all involved. AG suggested TerraPave® Genoa, in both textures, to suit the internal and external areas, which matched the colour requirement of the specification. We were also able to provide matching steps to meet Part M Building Regulations and a square edge to the flags, which the client wanted.“Finally, we were able to agree a production programme which met with Sisk’s requirement to hand over the building in the first week of April 2019.”

Chelmer Waterside near Chelmsford in Essex, is a residential-led riverside quarter, delivering new homes and public spaces south-east of the city centre. The site of a former gas works, the land is being regenerated to offer high quality affordable housing on the River Chelmer peninsula.SURFACING REQUIREMENTAddagrip approved contractor The TP Group was appointed by Taylor Wimpey to assist with various aspects of the project, including Landscaping, Painting, and Fire Protection. They were also pleased to help with a very demanding first floor level crescent and second floor walkway within the heart of the ongoing development.Many logistical challenges of surfacing the podium decks were managed and overcome, alongside time restraints and weather conditions. The original plans of using pedestal paving were shelved due to time restraints and material availability. Following discussions, an Addagrip Terrabase Classic Resin Bound no-dig gravel system with a Stonebound finish was selected as the surfacing product due to speed of installation, aesthetics and availability.The TP Group installed a 365mm deep substrate, consisting of various materials, for the podium balconies on the first and second floor level ready for Addagrip’s Terrabase Classic resin bound system. A Stonebound 6mm bespoke blend was selected as the Terrabase Classic resin bound finish with 297m2 being installed on the first floor level crescent and 66m2 on the second floor walkway.The new paving offers a decorative, low maintenance surface with excellent slip resistance.The installation was completed in January 2021.