"roof decking other materials"

Formally known as the Olympic stadium, this structure was constructed in the Stratford district of London for the London 2012 Olympics. After the Olympics, redevelopment of the stadium began, including installation of the new floodlights in March 2015. The 60,000 capacity stadium is now home of West Ham United.The project involved working with 2 different clients on the same project – Populous (Global stadium developers) and Buro Happold (consulting engineers) for 14 no lighting puddles for the London stadium. The driver for the use of composites was seeking a way to reduce the weight at the end of what was then the largest cantilever roof section – so weight at the end was more critical than normal. We also supplied 2000m² of steel gratings to the same project – demonstrating how we can identify the most suitable material for each application.The material used was Flowdeck solid top 41mm deep in RAL 7043. Flowdeck is resin moulded with a 3mm thick applied plate on top of a 38mm thick standard panel. It was fabricated at our facility in Middlesbrough with each one delivered on a phase-by-phase basis to a tight programme.

The developer of an apartment conversion scheme in the Pennine hills village of Diggle near Oldham wanted to achieve superior sound reduction standards in the walls and floors and go beyond the minimum requirements set out by the Building Regulations.The Old Mill House project involved transforming a Victorian industrial building into several residential dwellings. The project’s design needed to comply with the requirements of Approved Document E, which sets out minimum standards in England and Wales for airborne and impact sound transmission between dwellings where there is a Material Change of Use.However, to deliver the highest quality living accommodation to potential buyers, the developer insisted that the acoustic specification not only met the minimum standards but went beyond them.To achieve their goals for the floors and walls, they approached Hush Acoustics for assistance in developing the specifications and providing the required products.Given the unique nature of the properties being created, the acoustic design for the flooring had to be compatible with underfloor heating and more unusual floor finishes such as stone tiling.The specification developed by Hush Acoustics for the separating floors beneath the floorcoverings featured a plywood timber deck, below which was the underfloor heating system and 8mm Hush FFR resilient underlay.For the ceiling side, Hush recommended standard acoustic insulation for use within the timber joists, two layers of 15mm Fireline plasterboard attached to the underside of the joists, the Hush MF Ceiling System to allow Hush Slab 100 to be fitted in the void created, finished with a layer of 15mm Soundbloc plasterboard.For the separating walls, two specifications were developed according to the types of walls. In areas where there was an existing masonry wall, a wall lining consisting of independent stud work, Hush Slab insulation and Soundbloc plasterboard was developed. In other areas of the scheme, a twin timber stud wall is recommended, again featuring Hush Slab insulation and Soundbloc plasterboard.As part of the process, the Hush Acoustics team undertook many site visits and guided the design and build process to ensure the correct installation was followed, and pre-completion testing was also arranged.The solutions developed and provided by Hush Acoustics fully met the developer’s goals to go beyond Approved Document E’s compliance standards according to the pre-completion tests.

Creating a Luxury Blind SystemThis project was a series of high-end luxury apartments developed by the Berkeley Group. There were multiple techniques used throughout the project that were vital to keep in-fitting with the luxury nature of the development.One of which was the coupled use of Umbra's Sirios motorised roller blinds with concealment profiles. The Sirios line is designed with compact functionality in mind, making the blinds perfect for projects that require concealment to create a sleek finish.The blinds also make use of a feature known as 'slave and drive', a system whereby a pair of blinds next to each other use a singular motor and a shaft to create a synchronized and energy efficient blinds system.Umbra's wide range of fabrics also came into play, the high end material were chosen to provide both privacy and an aesthetically pleasing design.

In partnership with Inspired washrooms, Franke Water Systems UK have provided stainless steel hand sanitiser dispensers to Didsbury Road School, Stockport to encourage hand hygiene when the pupils return. Franke Water Systems were thrilled to provide Dart Valley branded AC00-050 free standing sanitiser dispensers for the entrance of the school before children returned on. The DVS branded touch-free hand sanitiser station is a floor standing dispenser with a premium stand. Manufactured from quality materials, this dispenser is perfect for environments with high footfall such as schools, universities, and other education facilities. The sturdy touch-free design comes with a large sanitiser tank and is battery operated, offering a touch-free, easy to install and low maintenance solution.  

The children’s hospital is the largest centre for child heart surgery in the UK and one of the largest centres for heart transplantation in the world. The hospital is constructing a new building which will contain an Intraoperative Magnetic Resonance suite as well as physiotherapy and rehabilitation facilities. The suite will enable surgical teams to check whether complex procedures have worked, before patients wake up.Dortek supplied our specialist hybrid doors which are hygienic, lead-lined, fire-rated, automated and hermetically sealing. Our doors are specifically constructed for high hygiene areas and are completely free from timber or other organic materials which can harbour bacteria. The doors play an essential role in preventing cross-contamination as well as providing certified fire and x-ray protection and ensuring safe and efficient access for patients and staff.

Contacted by Tefken Construction, we designed, fabricated and supplied modular flat packs of both steel and GRP gratings, heavy duty barrier rails, gates, ladders, treads and handrails to the 'Chirag Oil Field'.Our designers ensured that all material and placements could withstand the given environment. Using both steel and GRP allowed for cost efficiencies for the client, while maintaining a great strength for their platforms and rails.Our modular flat packs allow the client to install their flooring and other items easily.Chirag is an offshore production, drilling and quarters (PDQ) platform located 120km east of Baku in the Caspian Sea, at a water depth of 120 meters.First oil from the platform was achieved on 28 January 2014.Total Chirag production was on average 53,000 barrels per day.

Location: Solihull, West Midlands Project Type: Hotel, Leisure Product: Spalding-Micropanel Material: Solid Sheet Aluminium 1050 AlloyFinish: Syntha Pulvin Architectural Polyester Powder Coating System in RAL 8002 Matt, RAL 8004 Matt, RAL 8012 Matt and RAL 8016 Matt Other products: System Flashings, Weatherstruck Coping, Window Surround System (inc. Jamb, Head flashing & Cill flashing inc. ventilation) in Syntha Pulvin RAL 7016 Matt, Column-Casings Syntha Pulvin RAL 7001 Matt Support system: Helping Hand Bracket & Rails Architects: Nixon Development Consultants Contractor: T. N. V. Construction Ltd Sub Contractor: G. F. S. Supplies Ltd

In the village of Bentworth, the Spanish architectural practice AMPS Arquitectura & Diseño had the task of building a modern residential building adjacent to an existing farmhouse. The planners designed a slender building with a gabled roof that reinterprets the traditional form of a cottage. It takes up the typical local forms and the building material of dark wood – and becomes something new.The entire interior is stylish, minimalist and sustainable, with building services designed for maximum efficiency. This includes the use of selected Gira products, such as E2 pure white glossy, pushbutton sensor 3, Gira G1 and Gira HomeServer. This is how the Spanish have skilfully redefined the idea of a cottage in the heart of England.Photos: Miguel de Guzmán

Waterproofing this historic London landmark – external waterproofing with Newton 403 HydroBond, internal waterproofing with Newton System 500, installed by Newton Specialist Basement Contractor MacLennanUK.Newton Waterproofing were delighted to return for this project at the prestigious Houses of Parliament in London, a landmark that has dominated London’s skyline for over 150 years. Newton Specialist Basement Contractor MacLennan Waterproofing was approached to specify a guaranteed waterproofing solution for the new-build basement.After reviewing the technical drawings, MacLennan decided to bring the job to Newton, whose product range was perfectly suited to the project requirements. Newton and MacLennan are both privileged to be the companies chosen to share in securing the future of the Palace of Westminster.This complex project required the design and installation of an external waterproofing system, an internal cavity drain system, and a polyurea roofing system to ensure a high standard of waterproofing.Externally, Newton’s innovative ‘Type A’ 403 HydroBond membrane was applied extensively to ensure the necessary waterproofing around the basement, whilst internally, Newton 508 and Newton 520 membranes were both applied from floor to ceiling as part of Newton’s complete System 500 cavity drainage solution. With the finished structure in place, the waterproofing was finally completed by the application of both a polyurea coating and further drainage membrane to the roof deck of the basement.With a waterproof basement fully compliant with the requirements of BS 8102:2009, coupled with guaranteed protection against water ingress, this newly completed, large basement area, situated directly next to the River Thames, provides a durable and well-established waterproofing solution, utilising multiple Newton Systems to great effect.

The project consisted of two similar flat roof areas totalling 1,100m2 above high-rise residential blocks in a city centre location. The existing roofs were an inverted roof design that had been waterproofed with single-ply that had failed prematurely. Numerous short-term, localised repairs had failed to stop the water ingress and leaks had been a long-term problem.It would have been impractical to remove the tons and tons of ballast and insulation from the top of the high-rise building and it was imperative to the client that removal or replacement works were not involved at all. The specific nature of this project required careful consideration, and so a survey of the roof was arranged.The SolutionA report from an independent consultant commissioned by the client identified a problematic challenge with an overlay option. The existing falls of the roof were assessed to be poor, and so standing water would be an issue for any new waterproof covering. The report concluded that this would reduce the lifespan of an overlay waterproofing system and so was advised against. The client initially thought this to be a stumbling block and that costly and impractical modifications to the roof would need to be made.Having worked with Polyroof on scores of other projects, the client turned to Polyroof Technical Services for a solution that could meet their stringent criteria. Following on from the preliminary discussions, Polyroof’s Technical Services assessed the site, taking core samples and then providing a suitable specification to overlay the roof with the Protec System.The BBA certification of the Protec system specifically covers use for zero falls (completely flat) applications, meaning the client had absolute peace of mind that standing water would not be a detriment to the integrity of the waterproofing system. The client was able to achieve the original objective of an overlay system and benefited from the associated cost and time savings. Furthermore, the BBA certificate states that when used in inverted roof scenarios the lifespan of the Protec system is as long as the design life of the roof.Work was started with J R Flat Roofing, a Polyroof approved contractor with national coverage, moving the ballast and insulation to one-side in four phases of 140m2 at a time, exposing the single-ply membrane to which the Protec system was directly applied.Due to Protec’s rapid cure and walk-on times (30-60 mins dependent on conditions), the system is ideal for larger, phased refurbishment, as specific sections of the roof can be made waterproof with the full Protec system in one day. When carrying out the next section, the new Protec membrane forms a totally seamless and watertight joint to the existing Protec-covered areas.Another objective was to reuse the original inverted insulation and ballast pebbles as this was cost saving and negated the need for the lifting logistics that would have been involved in bringing the ballast to ground level. Additionally, it made the process as environmentally compliant as possible by keeping waste to a minimum. The insulation and pebbles were re-applied in its original format and, due to the weight of the pebbles, was a mammoth task that required three miniveyors to help with the handling. A series of special aluminium breather vents were also fitted down to the concrete slab roof substrate to enable the surface to dry out over a period of 12 months.The whole job was completed in three weeks and the client was delighted with the finished work. With a 20-year insurance back-guarantee and a maintenance-free waterproof membrane that will last as long as the roof stands, the client was once again left with total peace of mind that their buildings could not be better protected.

The Residence required fast, robust hot melt waterproofing that met the demanding construction programme.ChallengesThe fast construction programme on this project imposed stringent requirements with regard to design, delivery, installation sequencing and coordination with Axter’s on site Quality Assurance (QA) team.The rapid build programme meant the waterproofing system needed to be capable of withstanding construction traffic and activity from other trades, with limited protection. Complex roof, elevation and cladding interface construction details resulted in the need for on site bespoke waterproofing detail design change, that maintained guarantees and ensured a defect free construction for the lifetime of the building.Restricted site storage and delivery access combined with the complexities of inner London construction challenged Axter’s logistics team to provide multi-vehicle, timed delivery without risk of delay or programme disruption.SolutionsThrough early involvement in the design process and collaboration with the developer and project architect, it was agreed that Wilotekt-Plus, second generation hot melt structural waterproofing system, was the right solution. The pour and roll application significantly reduced installation times, ensuring all areas were waterproofed quickly in time to receive a variety of roof finishes – living roof, paving, solar panels, etc.Wilotekt-Plus was installed fully bonded to the concrete slab, providing a robust, 7mm thick, self-healing system capable of withstanding significant construction traffic without defect.Upstands were completed using Cityflor root resistant bitumen membranes. Complex details, where a fire risk was identified by Axter QA, were completed using Starcoat QC in accordance with Axter specification requirements and the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) Safe2Torch guidelines.Our accredited Axtershield Installer Bracknell Roofing Ltd followed the project specification in full and works were completed to a very high standard. Regular on-site quality checks were conducted by Axter QA personnel to ensure guarantee procedures were followed and programme deadlines were met.AcknowledgmentsAxter is a company with technically advanced products. Every site is quality checked by Axter QA and I receive a clear report. It’s good to have a partner committed to our joint success and capable of dealing with the unexpected.M Gorick - Bracknell Roofing Ltd

Projects of complexity that demand innovative solutions to technically challenging interface design often deliver exceptional buildings. As a shining example, Axter recently completed the roofing systems for The Cheng Yu Tung Building, a landmark project for Jesus College in the heart of Oxford City.Systems in useStarcoat® PMMAForce Dalle®Excel®Cityflor®OverviewThis project required Axter’s extensive range of materials and methods combined to complete the multifaceted interfaces and deliver the demanding architectural design, whilst achieving the project’s ambitious goals.Founded in 1571, and with original buildings from this date, Jesus College is based in the centre of this diverse and historic city. With the development of the Cheng Yu Tung Building the college has undertaken its most significant transformation since the early 18th century.Combining new graduate accommodation, indoor and outdoor communal spaces, state-of-the-art teaching and meeting facilities with the latest digital technologies, this £36m innovative development is intended to have significant impact on the college faculty and students’ learning experience.Axter worked with architects MICA from early in the process, helping to specify solutions that would realise the design vision of lead architect Mandy Franz.“We’d worked with MICA before on a number of projects - including Keble College, University of Oxford - so they knew us and trusted us to add value through being involved with the design,“ comments Axter's Regional Sales Director, Matthew Saunders. “However, this project was a significant step up in complexity, with approximately 18 separate roof areas in total to complete. Looking at the main quad alone there is a raised area, numerous external stairways and walkways to waterproof as well as further raised terraces and inaccessible roof sections. Fortunately, we had significant experience to bring to this challenge.”Sustainability was the client’s major focus from the start, with the college already utilising ground source heat pumps, photovoltaic panels, and a heat recovery and cooling system to ensure zero carbon building operations, as well as reviewing all construction waste to ensure minimum diversion to landfill. We supported this aim working with main contractor BAM Construct UK to carefully plan and schedule the waterproofing systems to be installed, identifying the material composite of each roof to maximise efficacies in installation and logistics.The College’s key priority was to achieve a sustainability-focused design to reduce their carbon footprint. Naturally, this contributed to the challenges of the scheme, such as the additional fire safety requirements in response to the timber-framed construction. To help deliver the College’s ambitions, Axter supported the client’s design team by providing expert knowledge, understanding and application of the current regulations.Tapered roof insulation was used to support energy efficiency and drainage requirements, with bituminous waterproofing throughout. In keeping with the college’s sustainability mission, the main quad features a blue roof system to attenuate rainwater drainage. Other roof areas are finished with wildflower meadows. A combination of exposed and buried waterproofing membranes were consequently required, with additional complexity created by the range of different materials and surfaces involved.“Normally, if our membrane is marrying up to a vertical wall, we would see it come up as a visible detail,” continues Matthew, “but the beautiful Clipsham stonework used for the building façade wasn’t compatible with the typical detailing. We were also challenged by the desired architectural intent to defend the historic aesthetic of the stone, so we created a bespoke solution that has the required guaranteed watertightness whilst also delivering the architectural vision.”Additional challengesThe project started in 2020, just as the UK was trying to navigate the guidelines for operating during the COVID-19 pandemic. Matthew explains: “there were still restrictions in place, such as a general 2-metre distancing requirement, which was challenging in the tighter spaces, for example corridors where you literally couldn’t pass another person. We had an unusually hot summer also, which wasn’t helpful when you have workers in full PPE using 1,400-degree butane torches where use of naked flame was permitted in accordance with NFRC Safe2Torch guidance.”The overall scope of the project, which encompassed multiple terraces at different levels and a mixture of concrete, CLT and steel frame structural composites, was a defining characteristic. “This was a large-scale development to begin with,” adds Matthew. “Furthermore, the university emphasised from the start the centrality of the significant sustainability objectives, and MICA had ambitious solutions in mind in terms of the materials used. Our job was to accommodate these various requests while keeping in mind all of the regulatory and compliance requirements. Achieving those without exception, for a large number of surfaces, does become more challenging where each part of the project has several ambitious aspirations intersecting with one another. Fortunately, we are known for always rising to a challenge.”SolutionsThe pandemic accelerated the shift to a range of technological solutions replacing traditional or face-to-face approaches. Systems were evolved for everything from distancing to digital rather than traditionally signed delivery acceptance.“As a manufacturer, we don’t have to be on site every day,” notes Matthew, “but traditionally we would attend fairly frequently, as well as meeting regularly with partners to agree and then oversee various aspects of the project plan. Fortunately, Axter was already moving towards solutions such as virtual meetings, so we simply shifted much more quickly to those approaches, using them wherever possible.“I think one advantage we have is the breadth of the product range we design. We can offer clients such as Jesus College a full system approach involving multiple solutions, to ensure we use the right system for the right application on each occasion. Our accredited installers are carefully vetted and trained by us, and have worked with us for long enough to know our products inside out.”The range of products we are able to offer, all developed in-house, does testify to the culture of Axter. Comments Matthew: “We are very much a technically-oriented company and that runs through every aspect of our work and our staff. Our sales team are all very aware of the products on that level, they aren’t selling products they don’t fully understand the technical details of. Our long-term partners know that what we offer them is reassurance that, from early-stage design meetings through to completion, whatever challenges they put to us, our response will be considered and robust in terms of quality and compliance.”Systems and products usedExternal stair cores used Axter Starcoat PMMA liquid waterproofing membranes.For the main quad and some lower areas, our innovative Force Dalle warm roof solution was used.Our Excel reinforced waterproofing membranes were used as an exposed membrane finish, with a tapered insulation to ensure the falls and consequent drainage characteristics required by BS 6229.Axter’s Cityflor warm living roof membranes were used as buried applications in several roof terraces, again with tapered insulation.Self-adhesive membranes were used where necessary to ensure compliance with NFRC Safe2Torch Guidelines, especially required due to the timber elements.Acknowledgments"To deliver the increasing demand on a building’s performance specification, combined with the seamless aesthetics of contemporary architectural design, an advanced understanding of technical detailing is required in the design and construction process. The design criteria have also resulted in an extensive range of engineered systems on the market to provide certified, technical solutions for multifaceted interfaces.Working directly with the designers and product manufacturers, we prioritise a full system approach to the weather-tightness of the building, focusing on durability, termination and compliance with current regulations. I have worked with the team at MICA Architects and Axter’s Matthew Saunders on a number of challenging projects, including The Cheng Yu Tung Building, Jesus College, and the HB Allen Centre, Keble College. Matthew Saunders has always been a key consultant for the technical specification of above ground waterproofing systems and the buildings’ thermal performance. He’s an expert in technical detailing and advisor on the materials required to deliver the optimum waterproofing system for the building."Eric O’Hare, Design Manager, BAM Construction www.bam.co.ukWith special thanks to: Tomasz Zozak, who provided the photographs, and BAM Construction Ltd.

The Purple and Green MSCPs have capacity for more than 4,000 vehicles across five levels. The project’s scope involved concrete repair, structural strengthening using carbon fibre laminates, the replacement of the conduits, movement joints, drainage channels and deck waterproofing.

The award winning new Vijay Patel building is the bold centerpiece of DMU’s £136million campus transformation project. The tower houses all of the university’s art and design faculties under one roof – so it’s only fitting that the surrounding landscaping should reflect the creative nature of the students using it.The project was made up of three main areas which had multi-uses – the Arts Tower development, the Design Wing and the Food Court. Other changes include open parkland along Mill Lane leading to the edge of the River Soar, creating a new gateway connecting the city’s West End to the city centre. One of the main advantages of the new campus is that it brings all the different areas, under one roof, making it a lot more accessible and convenient for the for the students.Designer Plincke Manchester blended a range of Marshalls paving products to create different textures within the landscape, which help to delineate multi-use spaces.Different sizes of the new Modal paving, part of the internationally recognised La Linia range have been juxtaposed, with long flag units used to complement the lines of the central tower and smaller Conservation X Setts to designate walkways.

Superb development with unique balconies and a wonderful roof terraceThis prestige development in the outskirts of thriving Manchester used the MyDek Vista board on our standard box rail and cleat support system. The Vox is an iconic looking development.Located at Cornbrook, a short walk away from Castlefield with its waterside bars and restaurants and convenient access to Deansgate through to the City Centre. You’re also just a quick Metrolink journey, or a canal path stroll, away from MediaCityUK, home to the city’s exciting media-hub and Quayside shopping outlet.Most of the balconies had triangular shaped balconies with multiple faceted angles. This meant that installation called for a lot of unique angled cuts with every board having a different length and mitred end. The installers did an excellent quality job and delivered an outstanding result."Would I recommend MyDek to others? 100% yes! Just through their sheer professionalism towards us and the other trades involved in the project. They helped us out a lot, they’ve been really useful to us…any problems we’ve had on site…they’ve done their very best, they’ve been first there to help us out. We couldn’t really ask any more from them." - Senior Site Manager, Graham Construction

The Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation (ECCI) is a newcentre for world leading research on carbon innovation. Partof Edinburgh University’s estate, the ECCI acts as a social huboffering teaching, support and information on climate relatedchallenges facing society. The ECCI also doubles up as agreen business venue for events and conferences in the heartof the city centre.Originally built in 1777 by Alexander Laing, the refurbishment ofthe Neo Classical Royal High School was the first refurbishedbuilding in the UK to achieve the BREEAM ‘Outstanding’award. Refurbished by Malcolm Fraser Architects, part of theCentre’s unique design includes careful consideration of thebuilding’s fabric, prioritising sustainable and recycled materials.A facet of the building’s refurbishment was to improve itsenvironmental aspects such as waste, pollution, land use,ecology, materials, management and energy.Reaching this iconic benchmark involved sourcing materialsfrom a sustainable background. When Malcolm FraserArchitects detailed the building’s ethos and aim to achievea BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ award. Allgood proposed a FSBironmongery solution that recycles 100% of the water used inthe manufacturing process and 90% of all FSB products canbe recyled at life end. Once presented with our FSB range andenvironmental manufacturing credentials, Edinburgh Universitywere happy to use Allgood’s ironmongery solution.Overall, Allgood supplied a combined ironmongery, sanitaryand access control package that included: hinges, doorclosers, locks, kick plates, signage, grab rails, soap dispensers,paper towel dispenser and concealed electromagnetic locks.Having successfully supplied to other Edinburgh Universityprojects before, Allgood knew how to approach the project,allowing all items to be delivered on time and within the clientsbudget.

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.

THE PROJECTThe village of Comrie is located towards the western edge of the Perth & Kinross Council area, approximately 40 kilometres west of Perth in Scotland. The waterproofing system used to cover the buried water tank at Comrie Distribution Service Reservoir (DSR) was many years old and had failed. As part of the ongoing Scottish Water SR21 framework, Fosroc and The Fraser Bruce Group have developed a wide range of solutions for waterproofing water tanks that have been proposed and agreed by both Morrison Construction and Scottish Water. This project involved removing the soil overburden and the existing waterproofing system, before mechanically preparing the deck and applying sheet membrane.THE SOLUTIONOnce the overburden and existing waterproofing were removed it was apparent that there was severe ponding on the tank roof. The decision was taken to prepare the deck and apply an external self-leveler to prevent the ponding of water. The perimeter and upstand detailing was carried out before Fosroc’s self-adhesive sheet membrane Proofex 3000 was applied to the primed, horizontal surface. The surface was then protected with Proofex Sheetdrain 80, a drainage and protection membrane. After the membrane was laid, the access hatch upstands received two coats of Nitocote CM210 before more Proofex 3000 was applied and terminated just below the height of the new overburden. The access hatches were then sealed in place with Nitoseal MS600.THE BENEFITSProofex 3000 membrane, which is cold applied and comes in 1m x 20m rolls, is self-adhesive, thereby reducing the amount of product and application time. The applicator was able to cover large areas in far less time. The membrane is made from cross laminated HDPE film to protect against damage, while still being sufficiently flexible for detailing around corners. It is resistant to ground water, soluble sulfates and chlorides, offering robust protection from aggressive ground salts. Its use with Sheetdrain achieved a high quality, reliable installation compliant with EN 13707:2004. By combining the use of Nitocote CM210 and Proofex 3000, Fosroc were able to provide solutions for both exposed and buried areas of the tank with no compatibility issues between the products.

House of Tomorrow Today... CHALLENGE + SOLUTION Before your imagination runs away with you: HoTT stands for House of Tomorrow Today. This new Dutch concept is based on both the Smart Building and Active House principles. It tries to gather recent innovations as well as new technological developments in one project, entirely in line with future market trends. From the very beginning HoTT gathers together all parties involved in order to have a smooth running building process and thus limiting the number of contacts and intermediaries. Compared with traditional building methods this optimal cooperation already results in at least a 30 % cost reduction. Also it is worth mentioning the construction itself - HoTT strives for prefabrication and modular building components, resulting in a decrease of project schedules, project budget and construction site waste. Although prefabrication had over time developed the stigma of cheapness and poor quality, it has nowadays been turned around into a green trend in construction. The first HoTT healthy home in the Netherlands has just been completed. Comfort, energy and technology are the main issues. It is a house with comfortable living conditions, a lot of natural light and fresh air, and, above all it is energy neutral, modular and durable, reducing its ecological footprint. Electrical wiring, plumbing and wall components can all be easily adapted for the future needs of the building. Both sloping roofs are prefabricated steel frame structures with insulation, vapour barrier and roof covering already included, allowing a fast and easy installation. The less sloping, south facing roof has a RENOLIT ALKORPLAN PVC roof covering, provided with aesthetic RENOLIT ALKORDESIGN roof profiles. Also part of the roof has solar panels which have been installed using RENOLIT ALKORSOLAR profiles. The building is being constantly evaluated by means of sensors gathering data to continuously improve and develop future HoTT buildings. The concept will not only be applicable for detached housing, further developments will also aim at terraced houses, schools, hospitals, etc. This project proves once again RENOLIT is a reliable “green” partner, a company that is responding to the growing demand for ecological products by offering sustainable building materials. It’s the first HoTT of hopefully many more...

According to Alzheimer’s UK, there are around 900,000 people with dementia in the UK and this figure is expected to rise to 1.6 million by 2040. Dementia is an umbrella term and is caused when diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia and other conditions, damage the brain. As well as memory problems, dementia can also cause issues with vision and perception, leading to problems such as a welcome mat by a door looking like a black hole. The Equality Act and Building Regulations (Part M) make provision for people with dementia and there are some, when specifying paving for care homes and in the public realm, that can make a significant difference. One of the key points that can be addressed by speaking to a reputable paving manufacturer is the consistency of light reflection values (RV) throughout the landscape design. LRV measures the amount of light reflected back from a material when illuminated by a light source. The more light reflected, the higher the LRV. It is usually measured using aspectrophotometer. Research by Liverpool John Moores University demonstrated that an ‘uneven’ appearance of ground surface or patches of darker tone or colour can be confusing and potentially cause accidents. The institution also described how paving patterns or changes in colour that are arbitrary can cause confusion. It has concluded that strong paving patterns - such as chequerboard - may cause disturbance, as consistent light reflectance values are required. When Keepmoat Homes was involved in the building of the planned dementia care facilities in Litchfield, Staffordshire, the company spoke to specialists at Brett Landscaping. Keepmoat was working on a centre that would house up to 90 people in six buildings and needed the paving to be suitable for the residents at the centre. It required external paving which registered between 25 and 45 on the light reflective value spectrum. Rigorous and extensive testing of the LRVs of Brett’s products enabled Keepmoat to install paving that falls within the strict parameters of the guidelines. Testing of Brett’s Alpha Flow permeable paving systems at Brett’s manufacturing plants in Kent and Dorset, showed that the LRV was consistent on individual colour ranges. It also revealed that the variance between all three colour ranges (Autumn Gold, Brindle and Charcoal) is ideally suited for the project. Brett’s Alpha Flow paving is already widely used across the country for developments where developers are looking to improve surface water drainage and prevent flooding. Existing Alpha Flow pavements are also still offering between 15 and 20 years of low maintenance service. Other than the consistency of light reflective values, Alzheimer’s UK has called for other work to help those living with dementia. It also recommends carefully selecting materials to avoid reflective or dark surfaces which could confuse perception, planning continuous, level routes and avoiding steps if possible.

Addenbrookes Hospital Surge Centre2000m² Of CemfloorA temporary surge facility on the site of Addenbrookes Hospital to relieve pressure on the main hospital as part ofthe NHS' regional surge planFloor Screeding Solutions installed 2,000m2 of Cemfloor, the chosen screed for the project, which was supplied by Mick George Concrete, Cambridge.With the rising case numbers of Corona virus during the pandemic, hospitals were coming under increasing pressure for more critical care beds, and Surge Plans were put in place across the country to help alleviate this pressure.Addenbrooke Hospital in Cambridge sought to construct a ‘Surge Centre’ to cope with the additional demands on the hospital, and 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.Lewis Deck construction offered a strong light weight flooring option for the large pour area. As Cemfloor is a flowing screed, 500m2 of screed per day was poured over this by Dave Washbrook and his team from Floor Screeding Solutions, eliminating the need for on-site mixing.The main advantage Cemfloor has over other flowing screeds is the quicker drying times, and that it can accept foot traffic after 24 / 48 hours, meaning that construction could continue quickly and efficiently to meet the project deadline.

A faster drying screed required over Lewis metal decking system on a first floor. Gyvlon FD, the screed is compatible with the Lewis system and gave the client the re assurance that the 6 week deadline would comfortably be achieved. Floor was dry for floor coverings after 28 days.

Fully certified products from the range of TBA FIREFLY™ have been employed to protect a potentially vulnerable roof-space above a doctor’s surgery in Chingford, Essex, ensuring any outbreak of fire could not spread to other parts of the building. The work on the property owned by Peabody Estate has been carried out by Wickford based T & R Fire Protection on behalf of another industry expert, LMAC Fire Systems, also from Essex. The two companies regularly cooperate on such projects as landlords continue to maintain and improve the fire safety performance of existing buildings.In the case of the Chingford surgery, FIREFLY™ Apollo Lite™ 30:30 was specified along with the manufacturer’s widely utilised Collaroll, High Temperature Adhesive and 12mm stainless steel staples. In addition to protecting the sides of the 2.8 metre high pitched roof-space, creating fire barriers and wrapping multiple beam ends with the Collaroll, T & R also installed one of FIREFLY'S Access Panel FR 120 units. These have been stringently tested against EN 1363-1 2020 and are third party certified by IFC, being shown to achieve an impressive two hours fire resistance from either side of a fire compartment. Intended to be fitted vertically, the heavy-duty construction of the Zintec steel door and unistrut frame ensures the assembly offers a tight and flush fit when closed, and robust performance in use.The Director for T & R Fire Protection, Tom, commented: “We’ve used APOLLO Lite™ and other FIREFLY™ products on many hundreds of projects in the past, FIREFLY™ is our ‘go to’ manufacturer when it comes to fire compartmentation. There are many older properties which have no fire compartmentation in their roof spaces and in the case of the Chingford doctor’s surgery, the landlord – Peabody – asked us to carry out an inspection and come up with a fire strategy. We base our recommendations and design drawings on FIREFLY'S standard details and, once they’ve been approved go in and install the fire barriers. The work involves breaking the loft-space down into a number of compartments with one of the Firefly access panels providing safe passage between them. The installation has gone very well, though there is a lot more of this type of work to be done across the country in many sectors.”The APOLLO Lite™ 30:30 has been developed for use in vertical separation or compartmentation situations, offering 30 minutes integrity and insulation and is straightforward to install for an experienced contractor. It is widely specified to form fire barriers within roof voids and floor voids in many different property types, including multi-storey flats and commercial premises.

Castlebar Government OfficesBauder Total Roof System (BTRS) and BauderThermofol PVC single ply waterproofing systemSynopsisThe roof area of this government office building was complex due to expansion joints, air conditioning units and intricate detailing requirements. Work hours had to be agreed with the client to keep disruption to other ongoing work at the site to a minimum and insulation upgrades were necessary to satisfy building regulations. The office also had to remain open throughout the works, causing some logistical challenges. All deliveries were timed so not to cause any disruption to visitors coming in and out of the facility.Bauder Building BoardProject:Castlebar Government OfficesLocation:Castlebar, Ireland​Roof Area:2,500m²Specifier:Office of Public Works​Approved Contractor:Deane Roofing & Cladding​The specificationBauder’s bituminous system, BTRS, was specified because it is durable, robust and can withstand permanently sited loads of up to 2000Kg/m². The system build-up included Bauder’s 100 mm Thermotech Glass insulation for superior thermal performance, ensuring the roof achieved the required 0.17 U-Value. Small linking roof areas were waterproofed using Bauder Thermofol PVC single ply system, which is long lasting, possessing high tensile strength of over 1100N, and allows for no physical penetrations of the roof.Products appliedBauder Total Roof SystemIntegrated bituminous waterproofing system with a life expectancy in excess of 40 years.Bauder Thermofol PVC1.5 mm single ply membrane can be guaranteed for up to 20 years depending on system type.System installedBauder Total Roof System (BTRS)1 Bauder K5KA heavy duty, torch-applied SBS elastomeric bitumen capping sheet, featuring a spunbond polyester reinforcement to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture. The mineral finish provides protection against UV degradation.2 Bauder ThermotechPIR insulation board with a coated glass tissue facing on both sides.3 BauderPIR FA-TEAn efficient PIR insulation board with aluminium foil facing on both sides. The top facing features a printed grid pattern to aid site cutting. It is lightweight and has zero ozone depletion potential.4 BauderTEC KSD FBSA self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen air & vapour control layer, with a mica finish.Bauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system1 Bauder Thermofol U15 FRA 1.5mm thick, reinforced PVC waterproofing membrane. Stated within BBA certificate 06/4354, the Thermofol PVC waterproofing membranes have a service life in excess of 35 years. 2 Bauder PIR MTissue-faced flat board insulation, benefitting from a zero ODP and a Green guide rating of ‘A’.3 BauderTEC KSD FBSA technically advanced self-adhesive elastomeric bitumen air and vapour control layer with an aluminium foil facing for vapour impermeability.AdvocacyProject specifier, Tony Collins, Office of Public Works:“Bauder delivered a comprehensive roofing solution that utilised their top quality products and unrivalled technical support. Despite the design and logistical challenges encountered, the new roof system was delivered on time and to budget much to the delight of the client” 

Falco recently took to the design, manufacture, supply and installation of a bespoke cycle hub based on the traditional FalcoLok-500 design. Installed at Anson House, south Westminster, in view of the River Thames, the new cycle hub has been coupled with the FalcoVert-Pro cycle rack to provide secure accommodate for up to 24 bikes.Installed on behalf of Westminster City Council, the new cycle hub features electrogalvanised perforated sheet cladding, powder coated in a Jet Black RAL colour, along with a secure access system.The whole shelter is a bespoke contemporary design of the classic FalcoLok-500 shelter, which features clean lines through the glass cladding and supported by stainless steel glass clamps. The steelwork is hot dip galvanised to BS EN ISO 1461 and also meets UK structural design laws with EN 1090 accreditation. Rainwater is collected via innovative integral gutters as part of the roof system and a bespoke bund ensure that the cycle hub is weather proof!The cycle hub was commisioned to help reduce congestion and provide greater cycling accessibility for residents of Anson House.The FalcoVert-Pro as shown here at Anson House, is a space saving cycle rack design ideal for highly popular densities such as stations, cycle hubs, shopping centres, high streets and car parks etc. Bicycles are parked semi vertically with both front and rear wheels located in a custom designed trough.Falco cycle hubs can also incorporate a world of features including; smart LED lighting, green sedum roofs, CCTV and Help Point facilities as well as numerous other cost-effective features for the cyclist such as lock holders, helmet lockers, seating and bike repair facilities. For more information about the FalcoHub cycle store, a demonstration of the FalcoSmart app-based lock, the FalcoPod bike hangar or any other Falco product, then please speak to one of our friendly customer service staff on (01538) 380080.

Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust boast a brand new Assessment and Treatment Unit at the Lynfield Mount Hospital in Bradford.STJ Projects Ltd manufactured and installed a full range of doorset solutions across the new unit including:R-Quest Severe Duty Seclusion Suite doorsets, which are steel interlaid to provide a severe robustness R-Quest Heavy Duty Fire Rated doorsets R-Quest Heavy Duty Anti-Barricade doorsetsR-Quest Lock Back Frames, both 90 & 180 degree lock back facilitiesThese doorsets look stunning with real Ash hardwood frames and architraves, clear lacquered to show the beauty of the timber, along side the door leaves which varied in colour and material. The Seclusion & Common area Bathrooms were impact resistance and anti-bacterial PVC encapsulated and all other doors were faced with anti-bacterial laminate, with a natural Pearl Grey colour across all common areas with individual bedroom doors having their own unique colour. This ATU facility, for adults over 18 with moderate to severe learning disabilities and mental health problems, whose needs cannot be supported at home, in the community or in other adult mental health wards is a fresh offering to provide the much needed support they deserve from daily living needs to maintaining independent skills.

Commercial to residential, it may be last orders for some of our great British pubs, for other’s its discovering exciting ways of transforming commercial structures into luxury residential dwellings.  The growing trend of converting old inns offers new homes a unique history whilst being packed with character and features.Delta Registered Installers, Advance Property Preservation Ltd were engaged to assist on a troublesome vaulted basement to a property, based in central London which had already been converted into high living accommodation.Just off the basement area were two large vaults around 12m long. Made from brick barrel construction, this below ground space had previously used for storing kegs of ale!One of these vaults had previously been converted into a spa area with jacuzzi and steam room, the other was used as a storage area. The owners had previously had the storeroom tanked with a Type A, render system, however this approach repeatedly failed, allowing for substantial water ingress which was causing damage to items stored in this area.With Structural Waterproofing one of the major contributors to project failure lies with the design. When hiring contractors, ensure the design, procurement of materials and installation is undertaken by one specialist will naturally reduce these known and associated risks. A specialist contractor will always be able to offer quality assurances.

Two types of Welsh Slate feature on the new roof of London’s Irish Embassy. The £2.5 million re-roof of the Grade II listed Irish Embassy in London, with more than 10,000 Penrhyn Heather Blue slates from Welsh Slate, has required its own exceptional levels of diplomacy. DarntonB3 Architecture had multiple challenges to factor in when it came to specifying the replacement slates, including the City of Westminster’s planning department, which was keen to see as many of the existing slates re-used as possible and required convincing to embrace the “new” metric sizes. Then there were landlords Grosvenor Estates, leaseholders the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Historic England, not to mention the site being opposite Buckingham Palace, on a “Red route” with diplomatic bays nearby, and between two of the most important Conservation Areas of Belgravia. Work began on the landlocked Grosvenor Place site in March 2018, a year after DarntonB3, who are specialist conservation architects, were appointed to oversee the project, and has just completed (January 2019). Two types of Welsh slates have been used on the former terraced town mansion with decorative metal roof crest that was designed by architect Thomas Cundy, who was surveyor to the Grosvenor Estate at the time, and built in 1868 in a French Renaissance style. Roofing contractor Mundy Roofing was involved at an early stage in the project and were ultimately appointed as principal contractor. Specialising in leadwork and natural slate roofing, they were pivotal to the project’s success. A total of 600m2 of County-grade 500mm x 300mm slates have been used on the numerous standard 30° to 35° pitched roofs while Capital-grade bespoke arrow-head slates of the same colour but sized at 400mm x 250mm were used around dormer windows on the 80° mansard roof elements that are reminiscent of Paris and feature lead secret gutter detailing around the perimeter. There is also some vertical slating to the rear elevation.  The old 5mm to 7mm thick slates had been on the roof since it was first built 150 years ago. The rectangular ones had been slightly longer and narrower, at 510mm x 255mm, while the arrow-head slates had been smaller all round, at 350mm x 200mm.  But a roof survey showed they were not laid to the correct bond or headlaps and fixing points were far from ideal and non-existent in places (the headlaps between 0 and 50mm), leading to the hardened sarking underneath becoming sodden in places. In fact, most of the roof had been repaired over the years with different types of slates using temporary lead tags or painted with a bitumen solution in an attempt to prolong its life. DarntonB3 argued that if the roof was re-installed as existing, its appearance would alter as they would have no option but to lay the slates at the correct headlap which would create additional courses. In addition, using the slightly larger arrow-head slates for the mansard roof would enable them to form a more robust detail at the abutments to the dormers and party wall.  Home to the Irish Embassy for the past 70 years, the building comprises office and entertainment space. The traditional timber truss roof featured timber sarking boards with penny gaps, a form of construction usually found in Scotland. The slates were then fixed with copper nails directly to the boarding without any timber battens. Once city planners had agreed to 100% replacement of the Welsh slates, at the new metric sizes (a process that took a year), the addition of timber counter battens, to improve ventilation of the roof and prolong the life of the new slates, was also proposed by the Architects. Mundy Roofing produced sample comparison mock-ups to demonstrate to the conservation officer this change would not be detrimental to the building’s character. As it is, the interface details where slates have been lifted has not altered the character of the building and the introduction of battens would not be known by the general observer.  DarntonB3 senior associate Matthew Jones, who was project manager and lead architect throughout, said: “Westminster City Council are regarded as one of the leading conservation-led councils in the UK, with some of the highest standards and criteria to meet, and dialogue with the conservation officer was detailed and robust. The need for wholesale replacement of the existing slate due to them being at the end of their life was a delicate decision and sufficient evidence of this necessity was proven. The replacement of the slates with metric sizes was also an extensively discussed item but the principal contractor and Welsh Slate worked with us to develop the narrative.” Keith Hamilton, an architect accredited in building conservation, acting for DarntonB3 alongside Matthew was reasonably sure Welsh slates had been used previously but was keen to ensure the correct thickness and grading were eventually used throughout the renewal process.  He said “We have specified Welsh Slate on numerous other projects and their reputation for the highest quality precedes them. We were able to argue the merits of increased ventilation behind the slates using cross battening in lieu of direct nailing to the existing sarking board, which in the majority of areas had survived over 150 years’ performance. “The risk of lack of ventilation on the lower roof pitches behind the slates was particularly relevant at the eaves and head. We had previously considered introducing slate vents and felt underlay to augment any need for ventilation but the existence of the ‘penny gaps’ in the sarking boards encouraged us, to believe that this was not required.  “This was another point of continued discussion with the conservation officer who was against an underlay in this instance. The timber sarking was found to be in remarkable condition considering the lack of existing underlay and the direct fix of the slates, highlighting the quality of the original slates. Hence, there is no secondary layer apart from the slating itself and we trust the quality of the new Welsh slate will replicate the existing quality and last another 100 years.” Due to tight access on the roof, they were also able to widen the lead gutters and set back the lower courses of slates to avoid getting them broken. All the new Penrhyn slates were holed and traditionally fixed with 38mm copper nails as opposed to clipped or other methods. The standard-size slates were able to cope with the wide variation of roof pitches and new rooflights encountered by varying the lap and gauge slightly. In virtually every case, the slate junctions are with lead or copper flashings and as it was appreciated there is some risk of staining, all lead was treated with patination oil. Using new treated timber battens for fixing the new slates proved a great success as direct fixing into the old hardened sarking boarding would have been a major problem and time consuming.  Matthew said the support they had received from Welsh Slate had been “fantastic” and included a site visit to match the type of slate, a letter explaining the need to change from imperial to metric sizing, technical drawings of the arrow-head slates, technical information on the end life of slates and their unsuitability for re-use, on-time deliveries with little if no wastage, and recommending experienced slating contractors. Mundy Roofing were on site for a total of 10 months. Work included the rebuilding of three chimney stacks, involving 30 tonnes of stone and brickwork, and restoration of traditionally-forged wrought ironwork to the pavilion roof crest, all underneath a temporary roof. Russell Mundy said: “This project was extremely challenging due to it being a working embassy but Welsh Slate were excellent with their support in achieving planning consent and the product has received widespread praise from the client.” Matthew said: “Due to the extremely difficult access to this roof, we were conscious to use a slate that will require little maintenance (if any) and satisfy appearance for an extended period of time. Welsh Slate were able to provide technical studies comparing different types of slate and their longevity. This enabled the landlord, Grosvenor Estates, that the new roof should outlast the previous roof and match it entirely with other buildings nearby. Welsh Slate’s evidence on the existing slates being at the end of their useful life, and the lifecycle information of the new slates, helped give the conservation officer comfort that the right approach was being taken for the building.” Keith added: “Essentially, Welsh Slate ensured we got the right slate, quality, consistency and sizes for the varying roof pitches and conditions. There have been no problems with mixing batches or colour variations which can occur. They also met the stringent programme requirements, reducing risks of delay from the main contractor. To our knowledge, there have been no rejects on quality of slates. “The final result is the new slating looks exactly like it was envisaged in 1868, except with the knowledge it is better-fixed and easier to reach for maintenance, with a discreet fall arrest system fitted. The client is extremely happy with the quality of the final works.” Andrea Fox, senior architect with the property management unit of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, said: “The team have provided us with an exceptional and beautiful project that we know will stand the test of time and one we are extremely proud to have commissioned.” “I want to thank the Welsh Slate team for the support they provided during our project and especially in relation to protracted issues relating to the listed building consent approval.” 

Completed in July 2012 the Shard was in construction for 3 years. Grainger’s, are proud to say we supplied our perimeter access flooring pedestals on several their exposed levels. This helps to create the unique shape of the shard. Access flooring has provided over 200 miles of wiring to be hidden underfoot. Making Irvine Sellar's ambition to create such a luxurious space into a reality. 95% of construction material were recycled during the fit out. Including 95% recycled content in pedestals.Back in 2015, the Grainger family celebrated a 21st Birthday, visiting the Shard. 360 views of the capital, on a clear day provided outstanding memories for such a special occasion. Whilst looking out it was easy to spot various other jobs and projects we had worked on over the years. We were all proud to be a part of the making of The Shard.

More than 150 metres of UNIFOLD® was installed at HM Land Registry, Coventry.This installation utilized the UNIFOLD® patented clip-joint system designed to allow joints to be competently and successfully completed behind obstructions and where access is particularly difficult.The existing gutter systems installed on the roof of the building were manufactured from GRP (Glass Reinforced Polyester).The GRP gutter joints had broken down due to thermal movement, for which this material is particularly prone.In order to ensure the integrity of the lining, system expansion joints were strategically introduced to induce Unifold to move in complete unison with the gutters beneath.This was the second HM Land Registry building to receive UNIFOLD®. The previous installation was in Leicester.

Derbyshire Longhouse | SIP Self Build Passive House | As Featured on Grand DesignsDerbyshire, traditional, windy with undulating hilly countryside scattered with farms and buildings that have a familiar similarity about them. A shape that is long and follows the lines of the hills, a Longhouse a venerable type of building which dates back thousands of years. They were designed to protect the human inhabitants but also the livestock from the elements all living under one roof.Being city dwellers whilst their family grew up Mike and Sarah bought an 18 ½ acre small holding in the Derbyshire dales to live a very different life. Sarah has become a fulltime shepherdess Mike a busy director, a massive change of lifestyle. The plan is to move both sets of parents into a new house.Planning history for the site showed 26 previous residential planning applications for the farm – all of which had been refused.Jillian the architect told them that the only real route for them to get planning permission was to through a special section of the planning regulations called ‘paragraph 79’ – it had to be a house of exceptional architectural quality that could only be built in the landscape surrounding it so it becomes part of the landscape. After 2 years of application approval was granted.21st century interpretation of a Derbyshire long house – a series of interconnected spaces arranged in a line. A way the family could come together so it was multigenerational living.2 existing barns were knocked down. Foundations laid and 45tonnes of steel formed the frame of the building. The entire structure was then clad in SIPs. Walls clad in corrugated steel and standing seem roof all encased with triple glazed aluminium windows and doors.500m2 of living space. Spacious open planned living quarters, kitchen sitting room and a majestic double height dining room all with breath taking views of the dales. Downstairs contained a living accommodation for Mikes parents, upstairs housed bedrooms for Mike and Sarah and the girls, at the back of the house independent living accommodation for Sarah’s mum. 3 generations of family. However in this modern longhouse the animals will be living outside!The issues faced by the site were numerous, building to near Passive House standards, a roof that mirrored many roof planes and the need to transport all of the building down a track no wider than 3.5m wide and a steel frame that looked like something from Battlestar Gallactica!At every stage through numerous design team meetings and many telephone calls emails and every other form of correspondence this project wound its way like the undulating hills it was to be built in to a conclusion.SBUK had 8 weeks to deliver and install the SIP cladding to the building which was within the 8 – 10 week build program allowed. Our costs were delivered within the parameters of the final estimate for the project despite the time lapse in between.The overall project suffered from delay due to late delivery of the standing seam roof. Delays due to the pandemic and the struggle for materials added a couple of months to the overall program and the budget increased by 7%. Inflation during this period has been running in excess of 10%!!In all reality our package stayed the same despite timber costs rising by over 50% and SIP panels rising by 32% in the same period. We have been able to achieve this for the client by better optimisation of the SIP panel cutting which reduced what should have been enormous wastage due to the triangular shape of the panels.Optimisation ultimately was nearer to normal due to hard work and diligent panel landing by our design team.From the very beginning of the project the clients have looked to build an energy efficient fabric first building that will last the test of time.The ultimate use of the house was to house 3 generations of family. The consistent search for improvements in the materials and airtightness of the building whilst striving to achieve a passive house has led to a building that has incredibly low cost for heating.Recently whilst the snow was laying on the ground the inside temperature was 22c despite no heating being used.SIP panels are inherently airtight, add to that a VCL that has wrapped the building throw in the mechanical heat recovery and the building outperforms virtually anything that is currently being built.It was very important to the client to outperform standard SIP panel thicknesses so they opted for our largest panel thickness at the time. This will keep paying back for years to come whilst keeping all 3 generations warm.

The AliDeck System has rapidly become the de facto standard choice for balcony fire safety remediation projects. With our large range of non-combustible aluminium decking boards, joists, and pedestals our products offer practical and cost-effective solutions for any conceivable balcony refurbishment works.

Flooring contractors, 14 Flooring, have used Level IT Super Flex 30 to create 44 luxurious bathrooms at the Radisson Red Hotel in London Heathrow – much to their guests delight.BackgroundLocated at one of the world’s busiest airports, Radisson Red Hotel provides the perfect location for holidaymakers to get a good night’s sleep ahead of their flight or to chill out after a long day of travelling.Forty-four bathrooms, across four floors, have undergone a makeover to provide guests with an even more magnificent stay.The ChallengeTime was of the essence at this location. With guests already booked in, it was imperative that the flooring was completed on time to allow other trades to finish their works in readiness for the agreed handover date.The SolutionCommercial flooring specialists, 14 Flooring, partnered with subfloor preparation experts, UltraFloor, to install 3sqm of flooring, in 44 bathrooms, across 4 floors at the hotel.In preparation of the Tarkett LVT large format tiles being installed, 14 Flooring primed the substrate using UltraFloor Prime IT Multi-surface Primer.Formulated to promote the adhesion to all UltraFloor smoothing underlayments, Prime IT Multi-surface Primer reduces pinholing, minimising the risk of costly failures. With a coverage rate of 200sqm at 3:1 dilution, Prime IT Multi-surface Primer is a must-have product for all flooring installation projects.Once cured, Level IT Super Flex 30 was applied across the entire area, resulting in the smoothest of subfloors.Specifically designed for use over a wide variety of subfloors including steel mezzanine decks and flooring grade plywood, Level IT Super Flex 30 is a rapid setting and drying, fibre reinforced flexible smoothing finishing compound.Developed with a high polymer content, Level IT Super Flex 30 boasts superior flexible properties, making it the perfect smoothing underlayment for floors where movement is likely.What’s more, subfloors prepared using Level IT Super Flex 30 are available to receive foot traffic in as little as 30 minutes, bonded floor coverings after 1 hour and resin finishes and forklift traffic after just 24 hours, allowing you to move on to another project quickly.ResultsThe expertise and skills of 14 Flooring teamed with the fantastic performance of UltraFloor, meant that it took the team just six days to prime, latex and install flooring across the hotel bathrooms.On selecting UltraFloor for the project, Daniel Lunan, Director of 14 Flooring, commented: “I chose Level IT Super Flex 30 for its rapid setting and rapid drying properties. With many bathrooms to complete in a short time frame, the smoothing compound drying quickly, without airflow, enabled us to work and install flooring the same day, which was essential. Having used Level IT Super Flex 30 many times in the past, I knew I could rely on it to perform exactly how I needed it too.”For further information on Level IT Super Flex 30 and the other materials available from UltraFloor, please contact UltraFloor’s team of flooring experts by emailing ultrafloor@instarmac.co.uk or calling +44 (0) 1827 254402.

Vega is a 37-storey new build property in Vauxhall, South London ideally located near to Kings College London, University College London, University of London, and University of Westminster.  The building houses a variety of 841 studio and shared student apartments and has a roof garden terrace, an on-site gym, cinema room, private dining area, and gaming zone all for student use, as well as a six-storey open-plan office. As the student accommodation had cooking facilities which included a hob, fire safety protection was considered to be of particular importance. Due to its unique benefits and ease of use for the students and the fact that other Downing Student properties across the UK had requested it, the Firechief Kitchen Stove Guard was chosen to be installed as standard in 497 apartments to complement the passive fire products which had also been fitted.

The new Headquarters of Goldman Sachs in London is in a great location on Farringdon Street in the City of London. This massive office development of 1.1 million square feet includes a large auditorium which is isolated to protect it from tube train noise and to protect the rest of the building.Sandy Brown specified that the box-in-box construction needed 10Hz bearings supporting it.Our local branch worked with Byrne Brothers to design supply and install the concrete floating floors and structural bearings. The complicated 3-dimensional space is supported on 5 separate floating floors with bearings beneath designed to take the column loads.The floating floors consist of Stravifloor Deck isolation rails supporting composite metal decking, reinforcement and concrete.Some of the columns are supported on Stravibase SEB bearings located outside of the floating floor areas.The new building has been named the ‘groundscraper’ due to its mammoth size – it will become one of London’s new collection of landmark buildings.

Architects: IDOMLocation: Donostia, SpainPhotography: Iñaki BergeraMaterial: NATURSIDING-WFinish: RustikThe Aldapeta María Ikastetxea School is the interpretation of modernity, sustainability, and innovation poured into architecture. With the original building demolished, which dated back to the 19th Century, the new school building accompanies the view of education into the future, leveraging new technologies.Efficiency has been key to this project through the use of geothermal energy and natural light used as a shaping tool of space. Our durable rain-screen system wood panels embrace the refinement and warmth typically of wood into the structure in juxtaposition with other materials such as concrete and metal resembling Japanese architecture, with its pure lines, rhythm, dynamism, and sobriety.To accentuate the rhythm and promote harmony between concrete and wood, we have opted for the vertical placement of the slats that evokes the patterns of the wood framework. Achieving such effect is possible given the aesthetics enhanced by the small piece that attains a harmonious relationship between wood and concrete. With an innovative setup in the architectural sphere composed of a hidden system with no visible screws or rivets, the slatted cladding can be placed vertically even in large buildings, and in an easy way that provides a sense of strength and uniformity to the whole. The PARKLEX PRODEMA panels new setup system allows achieving distinctive finishes with the warmth of the wood, longevity, durability, and limited to no maintenance requirements.