"roof"

Strategically located in the heart of the University’s Social Sciences campus, this award-winning 17,000m² building brings together five of the faculty’s departments under a single roof, and provides a range of world-class teaching, research, scientific and social facilities for use by students and staff across the faculty, as well as the local community.Referred to as ‘The Wave’ for its flowing lines, rhythmic design and striking glazed façade, it is the University’s first net-zero in operation building. Designed by Sheffield-based HLM Architects, the unique building achieved the coveted BREEAM Outstanding Design Stage certificate - further supporting the University’s mission towards sustainability in both architecture and operation.

When regional housebuilder, Galion Ltd was looking for a way to speed up the construction process without compromising on using traditional masonry materials for its Jarmany Hill site, it turned to H+H’s Celcon Vertical Wall Panels.Celcon Vertical Wall Panels are storey-high panels of aircrete that are craned into place for a fast build with the reassuring characteristics of a high-performance, durable, masonry structure.Galion Ltd is building five large, detached houses with uninterrupted views over the Somerset countryside towards Glastonbury Tor. With a reputation for building individual properties to a high specification, the quality of the build is a strong focus for the company.Tim Barnes, Managing Director of Galion Ltd explains why H+H Vertical Wall Panels were chosen for the site: “One of the unique features of our houses is that we use local, natural stone walling for the external envelope of the properties. These are slow to build, especially when we’re using a traditional masonry build method as we are restricted to a maximum of six courses before laying the masonry to the same height.“With the traditional method it was taking 8 to 12 weeks to get to the point where we could put the roof on a house. The joy of using H+H Vertical Wall Panels is that we can get the roof on in around 8 days – it’s a huge advantage for us.”Constructing the watertight external shell of a house so quickly allows the internal trades to start work much earlier, reducing the build schedule significantly. When building large homes like the 2,800 square foot houses on the Jarmany Hill site, this time saving is particularly pertinent.Galion Ltd is working with Acorn Innovation Build Ltd whose carpenters were trained by H+H to install the Vertical Wall Panels. It was a fairly straightforward transition for them as they already use a crane to install timber floor cassettes and roof joists.Matt Shuttleworth, Director, Acorn Innovation Build commented: “H+H Celcon Vertical Wall Panels is a new system for us but as a company we are always interested in different methods of construction. I have to say, so far we are very impressed with this one.”Tim Barnes is equally impressed, saying: “I’m struggling to see a downside to the system. Everyone who has seen it has been impressed and I think once other companies see contractors building with it they’ll wonder why they’re not using it too. We’re already planning to use the system at another site that will be breaking ground soon.”

A contemporary approach to building design inspires professional learningAt Exeter College in Devon, UK, modular skylights have been installed above an existing steel infrastructure as part of an extension project that connects old and new buildings. Elegant, slim beam skylights and steal pillars mirror one another in length, creating an awe-inspiring design aesthetic that is not only eye-catching, but considerate of building owners’ safety requirements. Roof access for future maintenance played a central role in design planning, as did the need for the skylights to be elevated in a manner that maximizes daylight exposure, across multifunctional college spaces.  For further information on this case study, visit our website.

The new canopy we recently installed at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Whitehaven has provided their nursery children with an additional 32 square metres of covered outdoor learning and playing space. Powder coated in RAL 5010 Matt Blue, the aluminium frame has a roof glazed with our Multi-Link-Panels NF fitted with 25mm opal multiwall polycarbonate glazing. The NF indicates that these panels pass the recommended drop test, ACR[M]001:2014, achieving a Non-Fragile designation. The polycarbonate glazing incorporates a special coating that prevents the passage of UV in sunlight, so it will help to give protection to those underneath.

Behind the façade of the iconic Grade II Listed Old Chelsea Town Hall, sits Chelsea Sports Centre. As part of a refurbishment of the showers and changing room areas, Washroom installed its flush front glass iLockers, back-painted in dark grey, together with Forte changing cubicles, manufactured from grey solid grade laminate (SGL), complete with unique Perspex integral roof to let in light while providing complete privacy for users and matching Forte toilet and shower cubicles. Washroom also manufactured bespoke ‘Black Quartz’ Corian vanity units and make-up shelves and installed its Legato benching to complete the design.

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

BMW Hollenstein in Aesch near Basel fully utilizes innovative technology. Completed in 2012, the operations centre uses only pioneering, sustainable infrastructure. The fully electric powered BMW models i3 and i8 are recharged at a special station prominently situated by the entrance. The electricity comes from a powerful solar energy plant located on the top of the roof. Any surplus electricity is fed back into the grid.Little wonder, then, that only doors of usual design and construction were suitable for a building such as this. Again, innovation has found its way here too, enabling us to build one of Switzerland’s first record THERMCORD systems into the entrance porch.www.hollensteinag.com/rundgang

The Confetti Building was designed by Allan Joyce Architects and completed in 2017. Built to provide a new area for students and include a cafe, LRC, motion capture suite, roof terrace and classrooms, it is intended to mature the institute with enough space for students after a period of rapid growth.The building embraces its industrial heritage with exposed ductwork, structure and brickwork but has been designed to ensure modern experiences are intertwined with the original spaces.A striking external facade is comprised of Blockleys Smooth black with a special BD1.3 shaped brick used for detailing. The Brickwork naturally compliments nearby red brick buildings and provides a balance to the wood and glass used around the building in other areas.

Location: Canary Wharf, LondonMain Contractor: Canary Wharf Contractors LtdWood Wharf B2 is a modular construction project located on the edge of Blackwall Basin, Canary Wharf.All 279 serviced apartments were manufactured at their specialist construction site, fitted with kitchens and bathrooms and even furniture — before being transported to the site and craned into position.OBEX supplied fire-classified membranes that have been developed specifically for modular construction, including the 0400FR Class B Modular Roofing Membrane, as well as the 0223FR Class A2/W2 Breather Membrane.Storeys: 21Apartments: 279OBEX Fire-Rated products required: 4

In spring 2015, the Spitzacker shopping centre in Urdorf (ZH) was reopened after considerable renovation and extension. The retail area has been totally transformed and has almost doubled in size, with numerous new tenants. There are 13 new stores housed in the complex, built in the style of a bright, spacious mall with a glass roof.All shop entrances feature record THERMCORD sliding doors with thermal insulation. The benefits of the THERMCORD model are very clear, as it plugs one of the last gaps in a building’s thermal insulation. During the day the doors provide regular, reliable service, and after closing prevent heat loss, or heat penetrating into a space requiring controlled air temperatures.www.migros.ch

Tailors Corner is one of Leeds’ most iconic city-center landmarks, and its refurbishment required contemporary design without detracting from the building’s original grandeur.A key new feature is a roof garden for the sole use of the sixth-floor occupier, and landscape designer John Davies Landscape Architecture wanted this to be a garden in its truest sense. Terrace system products from Raaft gave choice and versatility to ensure this vision became reality, while ensuring the finished results satisfied the requirements for durability and safety.Raaft also became the supplier of choice as the customer wanted a single source for all hard landscaping products and we met that requirement.

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

Cambridge Central Mosque is Europe's first eco-friendly mosque and the first purpose-built mosque within the city of Cambridge. The mosque is well insulated and naturally ventilated, using efficient heat lights in the roof and solar panels on the top to help generate renewable energy.Cellecta XFLO Micro was specified by Marks Barfield Architects as its underfloor heating insulation boards were used to help create an efficient and environmentally friendly heating system. Cellecta ScreedBoard 20 was also specified for the overlay floorboard. It is suitable for all types of steel, concrete and timber floors.Warmafloor were awarded this 250m² contract to develop this eco-friendly structure.

he BriefAddenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridgeshire were looking for a wall mounted canopy to provide shade and shelter over the main entrance of their Accident and Emergency department. At the time of enquiry, they didn’t have any form of shelter over the entrance and patients and visitors were exposed to the elements when queuing or waiting outside.Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust’s Project Manager came to Able Canopies for a quotation in hope that we could offer a product that met their design needs, whilst providing the weather protection required. The canopy specification presented to Able Canopies was a wall mounted canopy with a polycarbonate roof and toughened glass or polycarbonate front panels.

April 2017 and the future looked bleak for a fire-engulfed net repair factory on the small island of Scalpay. Fire crews from Scalpay, Tarbert, Leverburgh and Stornaway rushed to the scene, as the massive blaze took hold of the facility and the roof looked in danger of collapse. They deployed high pressure hoses to douse the conflagration.Opened in 2008, the factory employed 14 staff and had been used to clean, repair and apply treatment to salmon farming nets. The Norwegian owned operators of the Net Services Scotland site faced an uphill struggle to get the site back up and running again. Hampered by the remote location of the Outer Hebrides and its distance from the mainland.

Project type: Commercial Location: Bremont Watches Headquarters, Sheephouse Farm, Oxfordshire, RG9 4JF Product: Highline Gutter Finish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 9006 Matt White Aluminium Product: Meridian Coping System Finish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 9006 Matt White Aluminium Product: Faceted Verge Raking Soffit Finish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 9006 Matt White Aluminium Fire Rating: A2 s1, d0 Non-combustible (Reaction to Fire EN BS 13501-1:2018) Client: Bremont Watches Architect: Spratley & Partners Contractor: A&H Construction Sub Contractor: Vertec Roofing & Cladding Ltd

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.

Did you know Vincent Timber supplied both these clubs with their cladding and louvres?BurnleyBurnley Football Club's aim with this development was to raise the standard of their training facility to meet the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP) Category 1 and 2 standard of infrastructure. Together with Barnfield Construction, they achieved just this.To meet the requirements of the EPPP the build included an indoor area, allowing training to continue through all weathers, complete with a small spectator gallery; as well as multiple developments outside, including three full-sized training pitches and a further two three-quarter size pitches.The new centre was then given a unique finish, clad in four pre-coated, custom colours of Vincent Timber's Thermowood.Thermowood is a versatile timber that serves as internal and external cladding, louvres and even works in saunas thanks to its heat resistant properties.Thermowood is produced by changing the cellular structure of the softwood with a heat treatment making the wood more stable. Its durability and sustainability make Thermowood very popular.ArsenalSupplied by Vincent Timber to contractors Richardson Roofing.With the help of Vincent Timber and Richardson Roofing, Arsenal Football Club were able to transform their training ground at London Colney to provide players with the best possible facilities, at every age group of the club.The facility, featuring a new gym, 40m running track, ice baths, cryotherapy chamber and state of the art analysis and scouting suites, will not only be used by the first team players but it will also house 1st and 2nd year professionals at the academy.The beautiful exterior on the training centre is Western Red Cedar cladding. This attractive, durable material is the ideal choice as it is highly resistant to weather while offering superior quality and sustainability.

When Liverpool’s leading specialist heart and chest hospital trust wanted to set-up a drive through COVID-19 testing facility, Twinfix were approached by Actua to find a solution to provide shelter within their client’s COVID 19 testing pick up points.The area was a small courtyard and the proposal was to create a turning circle where vehicles could drive in and pick up their testing kit and drive out, the canopy would provide shelter for the vehicles whilst doing so.There were further complications as the area is also used for general hospital deliveries therefore meaning the height of the canopy needed to facilitate lorry/wagons.With the hospital’s requirements in mind, Twinfix designed two bespoke structures spanning a total of 82 sqm:Section 1: Free standing duo-pitch canopy completely independent of the building·Section 2: Wall mounted lean-to mono-pitch canopy with vertical glazed screen to side & front elevation.Section 1 comprised of galvanised steel posts with upper aluminium sub-frame roof, whereas, the full structure of Section 2 was manufactured in aluminium.Both structures were fitted with our non-fragile Multi-Link-Panel roof-glazing system glazed with 25mm clear polycarbonate.Joe Astley, Capital Projects Officer at LHCH commented: “The trust is very pleased with the services received. From a quick turnaround in manufacturing to a trouble free and speedy installation, Twinfix did a great job at LHCH.”These canopies not only look great, but also utilise the outdoor space providing shelter for patients and staff throughout the testing process.

The new Halcyon Way school was constructed for the community in Oldham - a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school for just over 150 children to grow, learn and develop in a caring and encouraging way.ChallengeMetal roofing and cladding contractor Decron Ltd were contracted to provide the façade for the new school. Turning to Fixfast for a solution for the support system to secure the façade, Fixfast assisted with the intricacies of the project itself - including the large letters that spell out 'Halcyon Way School' at the front of the building.SolutionFixfast were able to provide a detailed façade calculation for Decron, which included details and advice on using our SPIDI Max bracket and rail support system for the wall façade.SPIDI Max is a one-bracket design system that emphasises strength and simplicity - just one bracket can be used in vertical or horizontal applications and can be used for both fixed and sliding points within a façade.The brackets are available in a range of sizes to allow for contoured elevations, and to accommodate a range of cladding zone/cavity depths - from 80mm to 600mm in wall applications, and up to 946mm in soffit applications.Supplied in aluminium or stainless steel to cover a wide range of applications, the unique ribbed bracket design puts strength and ease of use first."Decron extends its sincere appreciation to Fixfast for their invaluable support. Fixfast's expertise in providing a detailed façade calculation and guidance on utilising the SPIDI Max bracket has been instrumental in the project's success. Fixfast's commitment to excellence and innovation reflects the high standards we uphold in our collaborations. Thank you for being a crucial part of our team."Ian Wallbank - Director at Decron Roofing & Cladding

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.

A small farm cottage in a Cornish Village has been transformed with a stunning large modern extension and balcony.The team of Camel Glass installers have been heavily involved in this home with the installation of windows, doors and the glass balustrade. This home is situated on the grounds of an old quarry, with views over the valley towards an engine house. The customers wanted to be able to enjoy their view to the maximum and using glass balustrade provides a safe and solid railing. This home is highlighted throughout with copper oxide furnishings, the front door and elements of the kitchen follow this theme while the sink splash back is made from glass petals in a beautiful glass meadow scene. The balcony glass was the last outside job to be done, having to wait for the kitchen counter to be installed through the French doors it was safer to install the glass after this had been carried over the balcony. Now that winter is coming the indoor jobs can be finished off and the home owners can enjoy their newly renovated home! This installer has used POSIglaze base-fix in black. Balcony Seal® has also been used to ensure water can run off the balcony under the channel without causing water ingress. Most balconies and flat roofs are built with a slight pitch to encourage rainwater to drain towards the edge of the roof. In these cases, the balustrade installer needs to allow for drainage points under the channel, to avoid water pooling around the edge of it. The Balcony Seal® system works by subtly raising the channel a few millimeters above the substrate on drain blocks. Notches on the top side of the drain blocks locate into the rebates of the POSIglaze channel, locking it into position before the system is bolt-fixed to the substrate through each block. 

A small farm cottage in a Cornish Village has been transformed with a stunning large modern extension and balcony.The team of Camel Glass installers have been heavily involved in this home with the installation of windows, doors and the glass balustrade. This home is situated on the grounds of an old quarry, with views over the valley towards an engine house. The customers wanted to be able to enjoy their view to the maximum and using glass balustrade provides a safe and solid railing. This home is highlighted throughout with copper oxide furnishings, the front door and elements of the kitchen follow this theme while the sink splash back is made from glass petals in a beautiful glass meadow scene. The balcony glass was the last outside job to be done, having to wait for the kitchen counter to be installed through the French doors it was safer to install the glass after this had been carried over the balcony. Now that winter is coming the indoor jobs can be finished off and the home owners can enjoy their newly renovated home! This installer has used POSIglaze base-fix in black. Balcony Seal® has also been used to ensure water can run off the balcony under the channel without causing water ingress. Most balconies and flat roofs are built with a slight pitch to encourage rainwater to drain towards the edge of the roof. In these cases, the balustrade installer needs to allow for drainage points under the channel, to avoid water pooling around the edge of it. The Balcony Seal® system works by subtly raising the channel a few millimeters above the substrate on drain blocks. Notches on the top side of the drain blocks locate into the rebates of the POSIglaze channel, locking it into position before the system is bolt-fixed to the substrate through each block. 

OverviewPowrmatic supplied a TEG41 air rotation heater for a large distribution warehouse facility in Bristol which was installed by our trusted partners at RSY Air Conditioning.Project BackgroundSupplying the motor trade for over 50 years, Apec Braking is firmly established as the leading specialist braking supplier to motor factors throughout the UK and Ireland. The 10,488 m² distribution warehouse required frost protection with design parameters of -5°c external and +10°c internal.SolutionJust one TEG41 air rotation heater was installed by our trusted partners RSY Air Conditioning. This TEG41 heater was designed to deliver an impressive 420kW of heat output. The TEG41 heater uses high volume, low velocity, air-circulation to distribute conditioned air to large open space and is the perfect solution for any distribution warehouse heating requirements. Due to the customers requirement to maximise the amount of racking within the warehouse area the distance of the unit from racking was much less than would be usually recommend (it was under 2mtrs from face of heater to face of full height racking).ResultThe newly styled Powrmatic Air rotation units in our new RAL 7015 colour were installed by RSY Air Conditioning. The unit was redesigned at the top of the unit to be top exit rather than the conventional design. The theory behind this was to direct the leaving air towards the roof and use the internal profile of the roof to aid with stratifying the air across the building length. The racked distribution warehouse will now benefit from a frost protection system which will protect the internal sprinkler system from freezing in the colder months.

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

The Early Learning Unit (ELU) in Hamilton was relocating to the former Hamilton Grammar School site, which had been demolished the previous year. Axter were brought on board to determine the best type of roof that would provide the greatest benefit to the school and its pupils.ChallengesThis project was originally specified to be a single ply system but, with the school catering for children with special requirements, it was decided that a living roof system would be beneficial to both the staff and pupils, and that single ply would not be suitable.This is when Axter and Procladd became involved in this project and worked together to design a robust waterproofing system that could work with a living roof, and still provide value for money for the Council, whilst delivering the project on time and on budget.SolutionsFollowing discussions, Axter’s Cityflor Reinforced Bitumen Membrane system was specified over a plywood substrate, with an extensive green roof. This project presented some unique challenges, specifically in the need for the use of Flame Free Technology to combustible upstands. Axter and Procladd were both committed to NFRC Safe2Torch standards, with Axter’s Flame Free Neo-Bitumen Technology specified on upstands to remove any risk of fire. The Force 4000 Flame Free system to these areas consisted of a self-adhesive binder, combined with hot air welding technology to seal and bond all laps, to ensure a robust detail without any risk of a naked flame near combustible materials.When asked to comment on using the Neo-Bitumen Flame Free technology, Procladd Operatives Billy and John commented: “The membrane was very easy to work with and a pleasure to install. The self-adhesive membrane adhered incredibly well to the upstand without the need to heat the underside, like a standard torch applied system, which made the installation a quick process. Once completed we heated the side and head laps using a hot air gun, normally associated with Single Ply membrane, to ensure a full bond complete with a 2mm bitumen bead. The system is one of the most straightforward and workable systems that we have used.”Procladd Managing Director Keith Burrell said, “We have worked with Axter on a number of projects and knew, through their commitment to achieving robust waterproofing systems, and their experience within the education sector, that it meant we could work together to complete this project in harmony to give the best service possible to South Lanarkshire Council.The introduction of their Flame Free Neo-Bitumen system to the areas of combustible upstand meant that works could progress quickly on site, whilst maintaining safety and reducing any risk of naked flame near to timber or combustible materials.From start to finish Axter were informative and helpful with initial NBS specifications, detailed drawings and thermal calculations, right through to on site technical guidance and Quality Assessment of the ongoing works and through to completion and Guarantee.”AcknowledgmentsWe have worked with Axter on a number of projects and knew, through their commitment to achieving robust waterproofing systems, and their experience within the education sector, that it meant we could work together to complete this project in harmony to give the best service possible to South Lanarkshire Council.The introduction of their Flame Free Neo-Bitumen system to the areas of combustible upstand meant that works could progress quickly on site, whilst maintaining safety and reducing any risk of naked flame near to timber or combustible materials.From start to finish Axter were informative and helpful with initial NBS specifications, detailed drawings and thermal calculations, right through to on site technical guidance and Quality Assessment of the ongoing works and through to completion and Guarantee.Keith Burrell - Managing Director, Procladd

Forming part of one of the largest and most ambitious regeneration projects in Europe, Mustard Wharf is a new residential Build to Rent development overlooking the Leeds-Liverpool Canal.The £55 Million scheme features 3 buildings housing 247 stunning 1, 2 and 3-bedroom boutique rental apartments plus communal roof terraces, gym, working spaces, and clubhouses.An impressive central atrium was created using Senior’s thermally enhanced SF52 curtain walling with secure access via SPW501 doors. The apartments feature floor to ceiling energy efficient PURe® windows whilst PURe® SLIDE doors lead to the balcony providing a light and comfortable environment. 

Langley Prep School is located at Taverham Hall in the village of Taverham not far from Norwich in the Norfolk countryside. Completed in 1858, the hall was originally planned as the home for the family of Rev’d John Nathaniel Micklethwait. In 1921, the hall was sold and became a boy’s preparatory school. It was briefly requisitioned during the Second World War before returning to its use as an educational establishment.Set amongst 100 acres of green open space, Taverham Hall is a breathtaking neo-Jacobian building with stunning period architecture to match its idyllic setting. The large chimney stacks and red brick frontage create an attractive aesthetic with the subtle grey roofing slates accentuating the property’s distinctive beauty.

The new store was built as a main contractor’s design and build shell construction, with a traditional Morrison fit out, and involved working with two design teams simultaneously. The store was one of the first new stores to incorporate Morrison’s new “hybrid heat reclaim system”, and also incorporated a series of photovoltaic panels and wind turbines on roof areas to contribute to the renewable energy targets required by the local Planning Authority for this new development.DrillFast low profile A4/316 stainless steel fasteners were utilised as part of the design, with lacquered heads blending in with the panel for a barely noticeable finish."Thank you all at Fixfast - you make my job easier"Paul Guyton - Senior Designer

Innovative garden refurbBuilder Ian Gray embarked on a major garden refurbishment to build a skate park and BBQ garden room at his own family home in Fareham, Hampshire.Having never worked with Lindab Rainline before Ian selected a plain galvanised system to complement the stylish design of the timber building. A key feature of the building is a truncated hipped shape roof with a raised gutter which provides shelter for the entrance to a covered seating area. Ian said, “we did this build as an on site example of what we can do and have taken orders for 5 so far”, “Rainline was very nice to work with”, adding “Thanks to Lindab for such a great product and service”.

TRC was recommended by Julian Harrap Architects, thanks to our successful work at Cliveden House.The two-and-a-half-year project involved a thorough refurbishment of 150 sash windows, including sash window repairs, draughtproofing, and provision of ironmongery. We also applied high-performance secondary glazing to a further 52 windows.We also supplied and installed two large, uniquely designed roof lights to a challenging design specification. Due to the value of the artwork and its sensitivity to light, these needed to conform to exacting standards of security of spectral data.MAIN CONTRACTOR- JOHN SISK & SONSLIGHTING CONSULTANT - ARUP ARCHITECTUREARCHITECT - SIR DAVID CHIPPERFIELD - JULIAN HARRAPPROJECT VALUE - £1.2M

A programme of works carried out at a Nottinghamshire hospital has seen a number of products from the FIREFLY range employed to upgrade the passive fire protection throughout the roof spaces, with the manufacturer providing site specific design details to assist the highly experienced contractor complete the project on time. DC Fire Protection Ltd., based at Wellingborough in Northamptonshire, works right across the country covering multiple sectors of the construction industry, installing active as well as passive fire protection systems.  For its 10 week contract at the Ashfield Health and Wellbeing Centre at Kirby in Ashfield, the specialist installed dozens of rolls of the Titan Lite™ fire barrier as well as the Apollo Horizontal barrier, Collaroll and two of the 1200 x 600mm FR120 Access Panels to link some of the safety zones being created. Built in 2007, Ashfield Health and Wellbeing Centre is conjoined to the existing Ashfield Community Hospital and offers extended health services to the local community, supplementing the current services by providing purpose-built rehabilitation facilities, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and other community health services.  It also offers consulting rooms, treatment rooms and an activities of daily living suite, rehabilitation and gym areas.A Director of DC Fire Protection, Daniel Mabbott, commented: “We have been dealing with FIREFLY for a number of years, including buying large quantities of the Titan Lite™ and Apollo Lite , which we use for commercial contracts as well as other work.  We often propose the use of FIREFLY systems to clients and in this instance, where we were simply given the performance standard the client required, we proposed the use of Titan Lite plus Apollo Horizontal to upgrade the exiting fire walls which no longer comply with current requirements.” “There were a number of plastic PVC-U soil stacks rising through the roof in what was specified as a Controlled Zone, for which FIREFLY provided us with a bespoke detail to protect them where they passed through the barriers, while we installed a couple of their FR120 Access Panels in addition to the fire doors which we fitted in a number of locations throughout the roof.  The project was completed on time and we have now moved onto another contract where we are again using a number of FIREFLY products.”Third party approved, FIREFY Apollo Horizontal 30:30 provides 30 minutes integrity and insulation to exceed the minimum requirements within the Building Regulations relating to fire barriers.  In common with other FIREFY products, Apollo Horizontal is manufactured using specially treated woven glass fibre fabric, being flexible and lightweight making it easy to install. Specifiers and specialist fire contractors wishing to find more information about the full range of products available from FIREFLY can visit www.tbafirefly.comImages shown are taken during installation and some sections of the installation might be incomplete.

Park Central, Zone B11, Birmingham has been an ongoing 15-year project which Crest Nicholson Regeneration, delivered in partnership with Birmingham City Council and Optima Community Association.Systems in useWilotekt®-PlusEcoflex®Starcoat® PMMAOverviewThe development has completely transformed the former Lee Bank Estate into a desirable place for city centre living. Included in the scheme is an eight-acre park at the centre, which has proved very popular with the local community.ChallengesThe primary challenge was to achieve a robust waterproofing solution across all areas of the project, ensuring that all key targets of the construction programme, installation, cost efficiencies and client requirements are met.This coupled with ensuring all aspects of the waterproofing package were designed and installed in accordance with the current government legislation, NHBC design guide and industry design guides including BS 6229:2018, requiring all areas to be installed to a design fall no less than 1:80. Due to the roof slab being concrete, the frame required a fall within the structure to remove the requirement for a secondary screed which was simply accommodated across all areas. However, Block E proved a little more difficult due to the curvature of the building.SolutionsThrough review of Axter’s extensive system portfolio and by following our waterproofing ethos of ‘right system, right application’, a mix of three key waterproofing solutions was incorporated within the architectural design specification.Wilotekt-Plus was specified for the central podium as a robust waterproofing system, allowing for regular foot traffic and storage during the construction stage as this was a key area for use with deliveries and access to three of the six blocks. The system was also specified for the main roofs where a fall could be achieved within the concrete slab.Block E proved a little more challenging to create the fall, but Ecoflex ADH PVCp single ply with tapered insulation was more than up to the job. It was installed allowing for a clean, visually attractive aesthetic and the required design falls to achieve drainage.To close out the design and turnkey solution, we also incorporated waterproofing to the exposed car park decks between Blocks D and E and Blocks E and A with R12 rated, BBA certified Starcoat PMMA. Bay marking was easily applied using Starcoat PMMA white roller-applied surfacing.Through close collaboration and partnership with Axtershield Installer NRA Roofing & Flooring, all works were protected under Axter’s Platinum Guarantee, our most comprehensive insurance backed guarantee covering materials, design, workmanship and insolvency. The excellent workmanship, attention to detail and multi-discipline co-ordination of works displayed by our Axtershield Installer helped to deliver this complex project.

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.

FOAMGLAS® S3 (Slab)Design Architects: Chamberlin, Powell and Bon, LondonConstruction: 1982Application: Compact Roof - FOAMGLAS® S3 (Slab ) Finish: PaversBarbican Centre in the City of London is a residential, commercial and performing arts centre, it has an array of buildings which has pushed the forefront of architecture.The centre is the largest of its type in Europe and despite its construction many years ago, the centre continues to attract many visitors from around the world not only for its arts and performances but its 1970's Brutalist Architecture.The client, City of London Corporation, is the third largest arts funder in the United Kingdom.In 2001 the Barbican Complex became a Grade II listed building.

The ChallengeThe design of two new two-storey, four-bedroomed homes with integral garages on the outskirts of Burnham village, Slough, was to be derived from the historical and varied architectural character of the surrounding area.The SolutionPROJECT INFOPRODUCT DETAILIt was important that the houses were not visually obtrusive in terms of height and detail. Their traditionally pitched roofs incorporate attractive half gable ends, and the front elevation includes detailed brickwork, stone cills and window heads.Forterra’s Hampton Rural Blend brick from the Ecostock range was selected for the build.The BenefitsEcostock is the most sustainable stock brick available in the UK. It is a high quality facing brick with recycled content. The range carries BES 6001 Responsible Sourcing certification.