"roof light"

Truss roof rafters and ceiling joists are typically spaced either 400mm, 450mm or 600mm apart. Given that the joist is normally 50mm wide, this gives a fairly small opening width for your loft hatch and ladder. However, there are still a wide variety of options to consider. For example, space saving concertina loft ladders, are easy to operate, providing robust and durable access to an attic. Made-to-measure folding wooden loft ladders, such as the new Quadro, are available for widths of 550mm and offer minimal protrusion in the loft space above. Visit our website for more information.

StoVentec Glass rainscreen cladding has a prominent position at the new Very Light Rail National Innovation Centre (VLRNIC) in Dudley. The RAL 3028 red coloured glass panels were installed by Metclad using Sto’s sophisticated sub-construction. This invisible yet indispensable supporting structure forms the structural link between the façade and the substrate and enabled the individual StoVentec Glass panels to be installed and secured easily to provide a bright, colourful façade for the building’s main signage.The VLRNIC was funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council (DMBC), the Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership (BCLEP) in partnership with the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF), the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP) and Coventry City Council. The Black Country Innovative Manufacturing Organisation (BCIMO) is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee and the driving force behind this multi-purpose centre which offers a host of unique facilities including a Rail Development and Test Site, Engineering Laboratories, Serviced Offices and an Events Suite. BBA accredited, StoVentec Glass panels are suitable for internal and external use, for new build or refurbishment projects and can be installed within high-traffic areas as the system has passed all industry standard soft-body and hard-body impact tests to CWCT standards. You can choose from a wide range of colours, either single-colour, multi-colour or metallics with a gloss, reflective or matt finish. Design: WSP UK Client: The Black Country Innovative Manufacturing Organisation Sto Applicator: Metclad Sto Expertise: StoVentec Glass A2 rainscreen cladding, RAL colour 3028 Photo credit: BCIMO & Daniel Graves Photography

When Make Architects needed a waterproofing solution for their latest project in the City of London they turned to IKO PermaTEC hot melt. Waterproofing such an expansive and complex roof has its particular challenges and required robust and reliable detailing. The choice of waterproofing was to perform for a minimum of 30 years, be cost effective and also contribute towards the building’s design stage BREEAM Excellent rating.

This is a metal roof coating & refurbishment project using Liquasil's BBA Approved Metalseal 20. The project involved removing an existing cut edge corrosion treatment and re-treating with Liquasil SWT Corrosion Primer, followed by two coats of Metalseal. The whole roof was then coated with Metalseal 20 to provide long term protection against fungal growth and weathering. The unique 10 year, single-point latent defects insurance guarantee was issued at the end of the project. For details, speak to our building surveyors on 0121 709 5352

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...

The new flagship outlet of Pioneer Foodstore in Carlisle was built to a high specification with the aim of significantly extending their client base. The planning application had to meet the requirement for a screen to conceal the roof-top services and air-conditioning plant.Italia-80V was proposed, which could be bent to a radius, to fulfill the vision for a semi-circular end to one side of the compound. The 2950mm high steel louvre panels were welded onto appropriately shaped RSA support rails at top and bottom, which were supplied with multiple holes for fixing to the posts to ensure perfect continuity of spacing. A double-leaf gate was also seamlessly incorporated by using a front fixing design.Lang+Fulton worked closely with the architect at an early stage to advise on the fixing points for the posts which would carry the screen. This ensured that the thermal barrier and waterproof membrane could be wrapped up the footings for a neat and effective installation.

Minimalist architecture and flexible design define the style of Casa Po, located in the Morobbia Valley. The architects designed the house with a principle of terraces, inspired by the historical vines and the mountain views.The top one is covered by a “regular, definitive and white roof, which covers the living area completely open to the panorama and orientated towards the light”, according to the architects.In this context, our O-Box roller blinds, located outdoors, help to create extra-outdoor spaces around the house. A type of in-between space is created when the shades are closed. Also, cable lateral guides allow an efficient operation and contribute to the sober aesthetic of Casa Po.O-Box system drops off the white rooftop as a key element in the project. 

FOAMGLAS® Tapered T4+ (Slab)Design Architects: Renzo Piano Building WorkshopExecutive Architects: Adamson Associates, LondonMain Contractor: Mace; Roofing Contractor AC PLCConstruction: 2012Application: Warm Roof - FOAMGLAS® Tapered T4+ (Slab )Finish: Bitumen membranesFOAMGLAS® provided the ultimate solution for the roof maintenance platform of The Shard at level 75.Its light-weight and high compressive strength enable regular maintenance to be carried out without risk of surface damage.At 310 m, Shard Tower is one of Western Europe’s tallest buildings; exposed to extremes of temperature & the revolutionary structure sways up to 50 cm in high winds.The building maintenance platform on level 75 islocated directly above the viewing galleries, and essentially forms the Shard’s roof. To shed water, the flat metal platform required an insulation with a tapered top surface.In this extremely exposed location, and with significantloads upon the platform, a truly reliable solution was needed. FOAMGLAS® insulation combines compressive strength, long-term insulation performance.Using their "in house" CAD systems, FOAMGLAS® designed a bespoke Tapered Insulation system. Taking full advantage of its low coefficient of expansion, and to eliminate thermal bridging, FOAMGLAS® and its membranes were adhesive bonded onto the metal structure. The unique ability of FOAMGLAS® to withstand high compressive loads ensures regular maintenance work can be safely carried out without damage to the insulation or the membranes.Adamson Architects commented on this project: "FOAMGLAS® has proved itself to be the ultimate solution for the difficult loadbearing areas of the Shard. Specifying cellular glass insulation ensured complete integrity and performance in key areas of the Shard Tower".

Cranbrook Primary SchoolBauder Total Roof System (BTRS) with Tapered insulation schemeSynopsisCranbrook Primary School in Ilford, London, was experiencing some major water ingress due to the advanced deterioration of the existing roof system. A roof survey was conducted by Stuart Parratt, Bauder area technical manager, where core test samples were taken to identify the existing roof construction to deck level and to provide an indication of the roof condition. The survey revealed that the existing waterproofing was in extremely poor condition, with extensive evidence of water ingress.  Bauder Building BoardProject:Cranbrook Primary School Location:LondonProject Type:RefurbishmentRoof Area:440m² Client:London Borough of Redbridge Council Approved Contractor:Thameside Roofing Ltd The specificationThe original waterproofing had been poorly overlaid with EPDM which had subsequently debonded. Before the installers could begin laying the new system, they had to strip the substrate back to the original asphalt. The client required a robust system that would deliver durability, value and longevity. 390m² of bitumen waterproofing, Bauder Total Roof System (BTRS), was specified for the main roof areas and 50m² of our cold applied liquid waterproofing, LiquiTEC, for an area that had limited upstands due to clerestory windows that could not be repositioned. Products appliedBauderPIR tapered insulation  A lightweight and cost effective alternative method of providing falls to a roof, whilst also providing thermal insulation. The client opted for this scheme at Cranbrook to minimise standing water on the roof. Bauder Total Roof SystemA two-layer bituminous waterproofing system robust enough to withstand foot traffic and most permanently sited plant. For use within warm and cold roof scenarios, as well as overlaying existing roofing materials. BTRS meets current UK Building Regulations Part B for external fire protection and features torch-free and safe to torch installation on combustible details. LiquiTEC Cold Applied liquid waterproofing Utilising Bauder’s PMMA cold applied liquid waterproofing on one of the roof areas ensured a fully watertight solution around rooflights and below upstands that could not be raised.  Project challengesAlthough the deck appeared to be in a reasonable condition for reuse as part of the refurbishment, there were large deflections to some areas and the existing waterproofing that overlaid the original system had been poorly installed and had pulled away from the asphalt below and so needed stripping prior to works commencing. The existing insulation was inadequate and left the building falling short of the current requirements. A thermal upgrade was incorporated into the works using a tapered insulation scheme which helped to solve the deflection issues by creating falls on the roof. To meet the minimum upstand requirements, the existing extractor vents needed to be removed to allow for the increase in the kerb height. Large continuous structural rooflights providing natural light to the building below were deemed thermally inefficient. The rooflights were upgraded during the refurbishment to meet current standards.  The resultBauder systems are only installed by Bauder approved contractors to ensure quality. The installation on this project was expertly carried out by Thameside Roofing Ltd, overseen by Dave Gregory and John White. After sign-off from Bauder site technician, Paul Osbourne, this system was awarded a comprehensive guarantee.  Systems installedBauder Total Roof System (BTRS) with Tapered insulation1 Bauder K5KHeavy 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, and a mineral finish to provide protection against UV degradation.2 BauderTEC KSA DUO Technically advanced self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen underlayer with “DUO” lap technology to ensure thorough sealing of lap joints, even in lower temperatures. 3 BauderPIR FA G16Tapered PIR Insulation board manufactured in accordance with BS EN 13165 with no facings. It is lightweight with a high compressive strength and has zero Ozone depletion potential. The product provided effective drainage as well as efficient thermal insulation.4 BauderTEC KSD FBSA technically advanced, self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen air & vapour control layer, with a mica finish on the upper surface to allow easy bonding of insulation using the specified Bauder Insulation Adhesive.

Twinfix have been working their magic to help Network Rail restore Kettering Railway Station to its former glory. They have been helped in this project by the Railway Heritage Trust (RHT). The Railway Heritage Trust was created in 1985 by British Rail on the advice of railway heritage campaigners following the destruction of Derby Midland Station. The RHT is an independent company which assists the operational railway in its preservation and upkeep of listed buildings and structures. Network Rail and National Highways (Historic Railways Estate) sponsor the work of the RHT which currently holds an annual budget for restoration work, ensuring that high quality and the best materials are used to restore and preserve assets. Kettering station was opened in May 1857 by the Midland Railway, on a line linking the Midland to the Great Northern Railway at Hitchin. The Midland later gained its own London terminus at St Pancras Station. In 1857 the leather trade was in recession with over half of Kettering’s population on poor relief. The railway enabled the town to sell its products over a much wider area and restored the town’s prosperity. Originally the station had a single platform but in 1879 the station was quadrupled, and three new platforms were built. The Midland Railway commissioned waiting rooms, cast-iron columns, spandrels, and canopies for the new platforms to match the original 1857 design by Charles Henry Driver. In the 1970s, the glass canopies became a maintenance headache for British Rail, who proposed removing the glazing along with the cast-iron column heads and replacing it with sheeting. Thankfully, Kettering Civic Society intervened and saved the canopies and columns. 50 years later these important architectural elements needed some refurbishment but faced another threat. The Midland Mainline electrification programme meant that structural changes would be needed to the canopy structures to allow the overhead line electrical equipment to be installed above the tracks. Once again, the canopies were under threat but this time it was Twinfix which came to the rescue. Twinfix, the Warrington based pioneers of polycarbonate were the specified experts in the Network Rail business plan for the station refurbishment. Having already helped bring new life and importantly light into old stations as part of refurbishment work, Network Rail stipulated using Twinfix’s polycarbonate roofing panels and their mounting system to keep the overall aesthetics of the station but add a much-needed resilience to the canopies.  Twinfix recommended their Multi-Link-Panel glazing with 6mm solid clear polycarbonate to help the restoration project. The Multi-Link-Panel is an innovative, modular system that is incredibly quick to install and outperforms more traditional systems in terms of cost, performance, and appearance. Multi-Link-Panel canopies consist of pre-assembled modular glazing panels, manufactured to size for each individual project. Each panel comprises aluminium structural bars that are glazed with lightweight, yet tough, solid polycarbonate. The aluminium can be powder coated to a range of colours for a rust and maintenance-free life. As panels are pre-assembled in a controlled factory environment possible contamination and errors in installation caused by on-site cutting of the glazing sheet are avoided. These properties can result in saving two thirds of the time taken to install traditional split bar glazing systems. This can save on labour costs and drastically reduce any necessary premises shutdown time required while work is carried out overhead.  The team at Everlast roofing who installed the Twinfix Multi-Link-Panel were a great partner in this installation process and this partnership resulted in a great finished roof.Handling during installation is easier and safer than with traditional glass systems as panels are constructed from materials that are both strong and light in weight. The reduction in weight compared with glass systems has the added benefit of lowering the overall weight of the roof construction, decreasing the stresses on the existing fabric of a building, especially important where a roof refurbishment is being undertaken. It is this weight reduction that removed the need for reinforcement of the original columns and resulted in the restoration remaining faithful to the original design. As Twinfix manufacture the multi-link panel system they are in an ideal position to be able to help with designing out potential problems. Each roofing system is unique and bespoke, so Twinfix took advantage of their deep understanding of their product and the legislation covering such projects and added access hatches to the canopies which allow access above the glazing for maintenance, finally curing that 50-year-old headache. Vicky Evans, Director at Twinfix said; “The result of the restoration is truly breath-taking. Kettering Station is now awash with natural light and the platforms are a light airy place to wait for a train and shelter from the elements.” Tim Hedley-Jones, Director of the Railway Heritage Trust, says of the project: “It’s a great example where the use of modern materials helps to protect and sustain a truly beautiful historic station. Our grants have helped Network Rail to preserve Kettering Station using Twinfix technology, to continue to make it fit for purpose for today’s rail passengers.” So, if Charles Henry Driver were able to see the station today, he would instantly feel a sense of familiarity and be proud of the restoration work on this piece of railway treasure. CREDIT: Photographs taken by Paul Childs, Spheroview

Editorial on dry fix roofing and the factors to consider when making a product choice.

Project: Surespan designed and manufactured these huge electrically operated sliding glazed roof hatches also provide free airflow of 7m² for smoke ventilation!These bespoke designs were part of a redevelopment on Great Portland Street in London. The covers were 4610 x 1955mm and featured an electrically driven opening motor.Product:The covers provide 7m² free airflow (As it is sliding there are no obstructions to the ventilation) according to approved document B (fire safety) paragraph 5b diagrams C.7.The glazing features laminated and heat-strengthened low iron glass to L40.A further fixed rooflight was also supplied to the size of 4935mm x 1955mm, the thermally broken multi-pane rooflight provides natural daylight

SubFloor Outdoor Flooring was used to help renovate and raise a 650 m² roof into an outdoor terrace in Västerås, Sweden.This was built on top of the existing roof felt and used high-quality pressure impregnated wooden joists to create an even surface, level with the rest of the building. The joist and screw system allows for quick and easy assembly so that the floor can reach the desired height.Products:Pre-treated Wooden Joist 45x70x3600 mmSubFloor Screw 300 mmSubFloor Screw FootHeight Variation: 90 - 339 mmJoist separation: c/c 300 mmSystem Weight - c/c 300 mm: 10.72 kg/m²Materials:Pine T0-C24Fibre-reinforced polypropylenePolyamidePoint Load Limit (50 x 50 mm):Load next to screw over joist edge - 21.74 kNLoad between screws over joist edge - 16.43 kN

No timber was allowed as part of the new refurb to conform to FM Global (Airbus Insurers) regarding system fire rating. IKO recommended an overlay on the existing deck, which complied with all the latest British Standards and Regulations. IKO Mach One System was chosen as it provided a flame-free System. Where detailing was difficult IKO Polimar EC/UV System was used. The roof refurbishment also included the installation of smoke vents, associated smoke control panels and accessories.

Plants bring a new dimension to an otherwise dull and lacklustre indoor environment. Desk, shelf and window space does not always allow for houseplants though – but that should never limit the options – there’s the wall space too! Leaf colour, floral interest – plants can bring warmth,visual impact and a welcoming backdrop for employees and visitors in the form of a LivePicture living art wall frame. LivePicture adds nature to any office.

Tew Farmhouse and Barns, Oxfordshire was a conversion of a Grade II listed farmhouse into six luxury holiday lets.Working to the client's brief, the Architectural Designers at Charlie Luxton Design scoped out the design of the luxury accommodation to achieve a high-quality finish whilst retaining the idyllic barn-like character.The rooflights needed to align with the design concept externally, integrating seamlessly with the zinc roof, whilst contributing to the airy and light interior design. Neo Rooflights were selected for their frameless interior and edge-to-edge glazing technology to maximise the viewable space and flood the top floor rooms with natural daylight.The technical design team at The Rooflight Co helped to marry vision to solution by creating a bespoke baseplate that provided the level of detail required to ensure the rooflights work alongside the roof, not simply sit within in. The technical team also advised egress Neo Rooflights to provide a means of suitable fire escape access and ensure the buildings conformed with building regulations.The Neo Rooflight demonstrated its suitability to be used within the Grade II listed farmyard within the context of it originally being a historic non-domesticated building. The rooflights were not only practical within the design, but the appearance was in keeping with the aesthetics of the times.

Gloucester Transport Hub Bauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system SynopsisThe replacement bus station and regeneration of the surrounding area has created a unique and distinctive city centre building for the town. The design connects with Gloucester’s Roman heritage and association with aviation. The innovative roof design incorporated a canopy intended to reflect an aircraft wing that required a lightweight waterproofing and renewable energy photovoltaic (PV) solution.Bauder Building BoardProject:Gloucester Bus StationLocation:GloucesterProject Type:RefurbishmentRoof Size:1520m²Constructor: Kier Group PlcApproved Contractor:Kovara Projects LtdThe specificationThe Bauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system with the BauderSOLAR F PV solution met the brief precisely without compromising the aesthetics of the roof. This combination of Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system and BauderSOLAR F PV delivered a high quality, strong, energy efficient flat roof.This system was selected for the project because of its lightweight properties which complemented the deck and roof design. Light grey was chosen to reflect the colour of the cladding as the aesthetics was a key objective for the client.The OMG Rhinobond induction welding system was specified as the installation method which provided multiple advantages to the project, not only saving time and fasteners, but also optimising the field fix pattern of installation and ensuring that the load on the roof was spread between the induction welding plates. Products appliedBauder Thermofol U15 FR MembraneA high grade virgin polymer Thermofol PVC membrane ensures the optimum membrane characteristics to deliver high performance and a BBA stated life expectancy in excess of 35 years.BauderSOLAR F An aerodynamically optimised system for flat roofs using framed modules and mounting units, securing them to the roof using membrane-to-membrane welding techniques. This installation method means that the roof is not compromised by penetrations of fasteners or is it ballasted.Project challengesThe design of the Transport Hub and city centre location proved to be the key challenge to this project. The unusual roof configuration required a bespoke insulation scheme using BauderPIR M, an efficient rebated PIR insulation board, in order to achieve the required U-value of 0.18W/M²K.The deck configuration equally made the installation of the Bauder Thermofol PVC waterproofing system complex with the perimeter zone having to be carefully marked in compatability the wind calculation which included measuring factors such as wind speed, altitude, direction and exposure. Bauder and Kovara Projects were required to work closely together to ensure all criteria of the wind calculations were met. 40 modules of the lightweight BauderSOLAR PV solution were installed on the west side of the Transport Hub’s roof.The location of the project, Gloucester city centre, presented logistical challenges. Delivery of the roofing products had to be carefully scheduled and managed to avoid creating congestion in the area.The resultThe installation required constant co-operation and communication to embrace the live site operations within the restricted city centre location whilst allowing the bus station to remain fully functional. The roofing contractor delivered a superior standard solution and any complex issues that arose during the project were resolved promptly and collaboratively.System installedBauderThermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system  1 Bauder THERMOFOL U15 FR1.5mm polyvinyl chloride membrane (PVC) reinforced with a pre-coated polyester cross-weaved matting for mechanically fixed installations. 2 BauderPIR MThis efficient tissue-faced flatboard insulation has been specially developed for use within Bauder single ply systems. 3 BauderSYN DB-PE 100A blue, polyethylene air and vapour control layer. The product is installed by loose laying and suitable for Thermofol mechanically fastened and ballasted single ply systems.

An office building in Manchester has a large roof terrace area that was incorporated into the building wide refurbishment. They wanted to increase the usability to the terrace by adding outdoor furniture to encourage employees to use the space for interacting and getting fresh air. The Parallel42 benches were chosen due to their flexibility and contemporary look which would complement the terrace space and provide ample seating. The Benches were installed free standing for ease of positioning and can be rearranged as required. EY now has a usable terrace area that is enjoyed by many of the company’s employees.

The Polden tile has been used on various sites in Scotland as a slate solution. With its riven finish and mock bond the tile gives a true natural look but still has all of the benefits of a concrete interlocking tile.

Modernising historic properties can bring major challenges. The architects at Fuse Studios gave careful consideration to this question as they prepared for a refurbishment of the Fine Arts building at Leeds University. Early on, the new access ramp at the front entrance was identified as an important visual centrepiece. The architects opted to use Q-railing products, including an LED-lit handrail, when creating an ultra-safe glass railing for the ramp. Q-railing recommended the Easy Glass Max system. It is highly robust, meeting all the relevant safety requirements with ease, and yet provides an uninterrupted glazed area.

Made-to-order Traditional Leaded Timber casement windows and doors from the Kensington & Chelsea range by Lomax + Wood, an approved supplier and installer of the Hampstead Garden Suburb Trust (HGST). Timber casement windows with traditional single glazed true leaded bars on front elevation Leaded lights and double-glazed timber casement windows to the side and rear elevations Made-to-order with 18mm 4/10/4 Krypton gas-filled slim units Custom Designs to replicate the existing windows Luxury Forged Bulb End handles Colour match F&B White Tie Supply and install service 25 casement windows 3 French doors

Armourplan PVC and Recticel Insulation by SIG Design Technology were selected for a 12,000 m2 roof to a bottling plant in a rural location on the outskirts of an historical Derbyshire spa town, known as Project Merlin. The FMCG company chose to build the new facility away from the site of the natural spring, piping the water some two miles out of town to this green field bottling and distribution site.

Sika Liquid Plastics has specified and supplied a roof upgrade solution for West Suffolk Hospital to renew the waterproofing membrane on multiple areas of the hospital campus and create a gradual pitch to aid drainage while enhancing the building’s thermal performance. Delivered by specialist contractor, Allard Construction, the phase four programme included seven sections of the building in a 20 week programme. The seven areas that needed work were all under heavy coverage of mechanical plant and pipework, and consequently there were large areas of restricted access, these issues made Sika Liquid Plastics the perfect choice for the project

Gent Sint-Pieters railway stationCHALLENGE Gent Sint-Pieters, the main railway station in Ghent, is undergoing a spectacular metamorphosis today. The listed main building, constructed for the 1913 World Exhibition, has to remain untouched. Behind the old building however the platforms, waiting rooms and the central passengers corridor are being entirely refurbished. Architect Voncke’s objective was to create a pleasant atmospheric site with a 35,000 sqm open and attractive central hall, broadened and completely covered platforms and renovated rails. Functional, well-designed and above all spacious! As the 12 rail tracks had to stay on ground level, the passengers alley was excavated to a lower level under the railroad tracks. This necessitated permitting considerable daylight to enter the underlying levels.SOLUTION Transparent canopies, featuring large glass sections and translucent floors were all designed with this purpose in mind. To gain even more light the architect chose RENOLIT ALKORBRIGHT for waterproofing the platform canopies. The six long rectangular platform blocks, differing in height, are interconnected and make one large roof. The white highly reflective RENOLIT ALKORBRIGHT membrane on top of the construction reflects the daylight through the high side windows. A clever way to add extra day-light to the underlying areas. 

The former ToysRUs premises in Luton required complete refurbishment and part of the project involved renovation of the metal roof. Liquasil's BBA Approved Metalseal 20 system was specified because it includes the advanced, SWT Primer to treat cut edge and spot corrosion in-situ. The metal gutters were lined with Liquasil's Gutterseal, seamless liquid gutter lining system. Upon completion of the metal roof coating project, the unique, Liquasil Latent Defects Insurance Guarantee was issued. The Liquasil guarantee includes cover for Professional Design, meaning that you can specify Liquasil products with 100% confidence.

LAMILUX designed, supplied and installed both the supporting steelwork and atrium glazing to illuminate the central zone of the venue with natural daylight. Structural calculations were generated to ensure that the steelwork, which was assembled from five sections, could withhold the weight of the high spec glazing used. 76 fixed panes, walkable for maintenance and weighing 65kg per m², create the 20m x 9m wide unusual curved glass roof with wall abutment detail. 3 anchor points, which forms part of the rooflight system, were installed so that maintenance personnel are able to fix their safety harnesses onto the anchor points.

Our premium granite TerraPave® flagstones were a perfect choice for this scheme at one of London’s foremost rooftop cocktail bars and pizzerias. Skylark Roof Garden, located on Kingdom Street, sits on the 10th floor of Paddington Central, offering incredible views overlooking the beautiful Notting Hill, on the banks of Little Venice. For this project, a combination of Pedestals and TerraPave® flags were utilised. The incorporation of Pedestals (stools on which the flags were laid) , meant no base was required. The depth of TerraPave® flags is calibrated as part of the manufacturing process, delivering exceptional dimensional accuracy which in turn delivered consistent levelling across the terrace. Project architects, Allies and Morrison selected our TerraPave® Flags, in Rimini and Milano Ground due to their rich, distinctive styles and impressive durability in highly pedestrianised areas. These flags are produced with locally-sourced, natural aggregates instead of pigments meaning their unique colouration won’t fade. TerraPave® also offers a cost-effective, and practical alternative to traditional stone paving. The £80m Paddington Central scheme was completed built by Wates Construction and designed by Allies & Morrison. Some of the impressive project’s additional features include London’s highest basketball court, an external glazed stair tower, and a public colonnade around the retail space on the ground floor.

High-performance products from the A. Proctor Group, experts at solving condensation, airtightness and energy efficiency problems in buildings have been selected for use in the construction of a British Antarctic Survey building.The BAS Signy Cummins Hut is designed to provide a fully fabricated, fit for purpose hut, which can be easily erected to provide short-term accommodation for two British Antarctic Survey operatives to carry out incredibly valuable research in extreme polar conditions.Main Contractor, Mike Robinson of Rothwell Robinson, Manchester explained. “Due to the extreme conditions, we wanted to ensure that only the highest performing products were used on the project. In light of the extreme temperatures involved, we approached the A. Proctor Group who carried out a full condensation risk analysis.“Following the risk analysis, the recommendations adopted included Roofshield® for the roof and Procheck® 500 as a VCL for the walls.”“Another key factor was that the chosen components needed to be lightweight to be carried from the shore to their final location on the island.”Roofshield is an air and vapour permeable, highly water-resistant roofing underlay that has been made to the same high specification for over 20 years. The products reliable performance has been demonstrated in the toughest locations around the world. Its characteristics allow even very complex pitched roofs to breathe, without the need for air gaps or secondary venting.Many vapour and air permeable underlays use an airtight VP film layer to achieve their performance, whilst Roofshield’s patented SMS (Spunbond Meltblown Spunbond) structure allows high levels of airflow, in addition to the transport of moisture vapour, making the formation of condensation in the roof space virtually impossible. It has an extremely high degree of vapour permeability, as well as air permeability, so will still perform in conditions in which air tight alternatives will not.Procheck 500 is a strong reinforced polyethylene vapour control layer, for use within roof and wall constructions to prevent warm, moist air escaping from inside the building and condensing within the insulation. The woven extruded polypropylene multifilament scrim reinforcement provides exceptional tear resistance and robustness to withstand the toughest conditions.

ProjectSurespan designed and manufactured these huge electrically operated sliding glazed roof hatches also provide free airflow of 7m² for smoke ventilation!These bespoke designs were part of a redevelopment on Great Portland Street in London. The covers were 4610 x 1955mm and featured an electrically driven opening motor.Product: The covers provide 7m² free airflows (As it is sliding there are no obstructions to the ventilation) according to approved document B (fire safety) paragraph 5b diagrams C.7.The glazing features laminated and heat-strengthened low iron glass to L40.A further fixed rooflight was also supplied to the size of 4935mm x 1955mm, the thermally broken multi-pane rooflight provides natural daylight

This is an example of an asbestos roof cleaning and coating project using a closed box pressure washer and the BBA Approved Asbestoseal asbestos roof coating system from Liquasil. Specify Asbestoseal with confidence, as it's the only BBA approved system on the market for this purpose. It also comes with the unique Liquasil Latent Defcts Insurance Guarantee, including cover for Professional Design. Need more information? See our NBS specification or call 0121 709 5352. Liquasil is owned and run by Chartered Building Surveyors. We will help you with your specs!

The £440m redevelopment of Westgate Oxford shopping centre, Furnitubes designers worked with landscape architects LDA Design to develop a series of planting and seating solutions for the rooftop terraces, designed around a kitchen garden concept and creating a series of unique outdoor spaces for 12 bars and restaurants and offering impressive views of the Oxford skyline and the countryside beyond. Themed areas include the sinuous Crinkle Crankle, a Vegetable Garden and the more formal Garden Court as well as the Kitchen Garden itself. Planters were manufactured predominantly in steel, some with additional timber cladding, others with integrated seating and lighting.

An extension to a 16th century cottage, Holton Lodge in Halesworth, has utilised Catnic Urban to beautiful effect. This stunning property extension blends the old with the new to create a huge modern kitchen extensionA cost effective alternative to zinc, Catnic Urban steel standing seam roof and cladding met the desired aesthetics – with the quick fit system offering a fast and problem-free installation.Hilary and Robert Garner wanted to open up their existing kitchen with a build that used full height glazing to flood the area with light and give them an unobstructed view of their garden. In response, architect Tim Hannon, from Brooks Architects in Leiston, designed a contemporary extension that provides a stunning focal point, reconnecting the inside to out.“After we were convinced that Catnic Urban could achieve our desired aesthetic, our next concern was that the roofing and cladding could be exactly matched to the window frames and that the colour would stand the test of time. Again, we were assured of the system’s colour matching and stability credentials by everyone working on the project and we’re overjoyed with the result. Catnic Urban has really given the project the wow factor.”Hilary and Robert GarnerHolton Lodge ownersThe vaulted roof was designed to bring drama to the space, with a ridge that was purposely higher than the roof of the main house, so visitors are instantly given a glimpse of the striking design as soon as they approach the house. An overhang provides a covered outside eating area and works to reduce solar gain, with the sleek lines of the standing seam continued down the side of the extension, which is wrapped in matching cladding. Typical of the area, the design also includes a lean-to roof on an area that houses the utility room and cloakroom.“I’ve worked with Catnic Urban on a number of projects and particularly like the fact that it is fully recyclable at end of life. The ease of installation also instils confidence that there will be no problems at fitting stage and the technical support offered by the Urban team is also excellent, with a good level of technical detail provided on abutments and ventilation, so that all the work is neatly finished.”Tim HannonBrooks ArchitectsCatnic Urban steel standing seam roofing and cladding in Anthracite Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra was used across the project, recommended by project contractor Kerslake Construction Ltd, as a cost effective alternative to the zinc roof initially specified, when cost became a concern. “If a customer wants the look of zinc without the price tag, I recommend Catnic Urban”, said Jon, “and in most cases as soon as people look into the product they switch, as it looks great, achieving really smooth, clean lines that flow beautifully.”Catnic Urban’s recommended contractor Steel Roof Installers UK was commissioned by Kerslake Construction to install the roof, as they have worked together on similar projects in the past. After attending a training course back in 2010, owners Chris Bates and Andy Morris were soon turned onto the benefits of building with Catnic Urban and now exclusively work on Urban projects.Catnic Urban (previously known as Colorcoat Urban) is a fully supported standing seam system designed, manufactured and CE marked in accordance with BS EN 14783:2013. Quick build times are possible with neat crisp finishes to complement design and build choices. Manufactured from Tata Steel’s Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra®, and also available in Colorcoat Prisma®, Catnic Urban is a cost-effective alternative to traditional copper and zinc standing seam roof systems. Seven times lighter than tile equivalents, it is easy to handle on site and quick to fix compared with traditional roofing products.

Wrexham General Station is a main line railway station and the main railway station serving Wrexham, north-east Wales. The station was first opened in 1846 and expanded in 1912. It comprises four operational platforms with two disused bay platforms at the southern end of Platform 1. Until the early 1980s what is now Platform 4 of Wrexham General, was a separate station: Wrexham Exchange.After working with MPH Construction on a number of station refurbishment projects across Wales, the Principal Contractor approached Twinfix to carry out the survey for the canopy refurbishment at Wrexham Station as well as designing, manufacturing and supplying the replacement roof glazing for 3 of the platform canopies at the station. The panels were installed by a third-party roofing company.The work spanned 532 square metres and comprised of the innovative Multi-Link-Panel Non-Fragile (NF) system glazed with 6mm Georgian wired polycarbonate.Each panel of the innovative Multi-Link-Panel NF system comprises of a powder-coated aluminium frame and fitted with polycarbonate glazing. The panels are built completely off-site in a quality-controlled factory environment, reducing the risk, and cost, of site mistakes, and are delivered on-site fully glazed and ready for rapid installation. The system has a unique linking design feature that results in incredibly quick installation times, making the system very much suited to rail work due to its restricted possession times.The Multi-Link-Panel NF system is an innovative roof glazing product that has been well utilised for many years on station canopy roofs, and it has been thoroughly tried and tested in that time.It was the chosen system for this project for a number of reasons:sustainability– these panels are virtually unbreakable in manufacture, transit and in situ, meaning that, unlike glass, maintenance costs will be eliminated.safety– Twinfix Multi-Link-Panel NF (Non-Fragile) conforms to the HSE recommended test method ACR[M]001:2019 (as outlined in document HSG33) and achieves a ‘B’ Classification.off-site construction– The panels are pre-assembled in Twinfix’s factory ensuring strict quality guidelines are adhered to, which is not always guaranteed when roofing products are assembled on site.ease of access– The Multi-Link-Panel NF system can be fitted with In-Line Access Hatches, to allow cleaning of gutters and roof. These hatches are hardly visible and allow safe access through the glazing without needing to get on the roof.weight– The Multi-Link-Panel NF is light in weight and due to its modular format, it is very quick to install which allows for short rail possession works.appearance – The Georgian wired polycarbonate glazing combines the appearance of Georgian wired glass with all the material benefits of polycarbonate. As well as improving the overall environment in a lighter, brighter station, the addition of the Twinfix Georgian wired polycarbonate at Wrexham General Station has preserved the building’s unique appearance and character, while providing modern levels of safety for passengers and staff.

The Pavilions comprise of seven residential buildings alongside the railway, providing a mix of 156 one, two and three bedroom sustainable homes with 35% affordable housing. As a site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC), this 'Development of the Year’ maximises the residential capacity without compromising the nature conservation designation. This is achieved by incorporating an educational nature trail and bird hide, with generous open spaces planted with trees, green roofs to encourage biodiversity, and solar panels. Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 20 was specified by Jestico + Whiles as it is a dry light weight Robust Detail solution compatible with Metec System LGS system, and the ideal overlay floorboard for acoustic application incorporating underfloor heating applications due to its high thermal conductivity. This enables the system to run more efficiently, saving on running costs and improving reaction times.Telford Homes was awarded this 14,350m² contract for this development at Caledonian Road in Islington.

The centrepiece of the building at 80 Fenchurch Street is a stunning glass atrium that spans the entire length of the core structure, flooding the lower floors with natural light and providing a breath-taking arrival experience when entering the building’s lobby.Radii AG were commissioned to utilize their intricate knowledge of glass to produce a dynamic, multi-storey frameless glazed atrium that matched the ambitious design intent.An additional consideration was for the atrium to accommodate the stepped, angular elevation changes due to the terraced roof gardens on the top five levels.The finished atrium at EightyFen epitomises Radii AG’s core philosophy of extracting the full capabilities of glass as a building material.Structural, acoustic and fire rated performance all formed a part of the finished installation, allowing Radii AG to provide a bespoke, technical solution alongside dramatic visual aesthetics.

In May 2017, the Main Building which housed the lounge, dining, reception area, and the Taphuis Bar, was gutted in a fire. Only the walls were left standing and all of its contents were destroyed. Because of the historic significance of the building, the project team needed to move through a strenuous process of permissions and approvals to start the rebuild. Part of the brief, was to ensure that as far as possible, original materials would be used, that would reflect the previous look and feel, making the sourcing and availability of crucial importance. This building in particular, dates back to the early 1700's and finding timber for the roof structure was a challenge. They decided to use Spruce.The biggest drawback of using Spruce is that it is a very light and pale coloured timber. To achieve the aged look and feel of the original timber, they used Rubio Monocoat's Pre-Color Easy and Hybrid Wood Protector.