41 minute read
BRICKS, BLOCKS & STONE
from FC&A April 21
GETTING CREATIVE WITH BRICK DESIGN
Bricks are one of the world’s oldest building materials and have been used in the construction of many iconic structures, including New York’s Empire State Building. Scott Denham, Sales Director from IG Masonry Support, gives insight into the limitless design opportunities bricks enable across commercial and residential applications.
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IG MASONRY SUPPORT
Brick has been around for centuries and has been used and specified by architects across many generations, mainly because of its consistent shape, compressive strength and ability to absorb water. Whilst trends towards other materials come and go, architects’ love affair with it continues. Over the past decade, however, brick has been competing with other solutions, including the likes of cladding. Now, brick is seeing something of a resurgence, and with this has come a wave of clients wanting to emulate modern interpretations of classic architecture.
Architecturally, the intricate detailing that brickwork enables is like no other. Brick detail in the form of brick soffits, deep reveals and flying beams continually make for stunning exteriors, enabling architects to create truly unique facades.
Brick has long been the go-to material in the UK and Ireland, but the likes of the modern cladding system have become quick and cost-effective ways to create bright and modern looking buildings. However, it comes at a cost and this is partly due to the longterm aesthetics, as modern cladding systems can look tired and dated over time. There can be no denying that many brick facades look as impressive today as they did when they were created decades ago.
Create beautiful brickwork
As a result of brick’s popularity and limitless design potential, there has been a need for a market solution that enables intricate brickwork patterning to be achieved in many iterations.
IG Masonry Support designed and manufactured five soaring corbelled brick slip feature arches with bond patterns that span the entrance facade of the Hendrick’s Gin Palace foyer in Scotland, a project designed by Michael Laird Architects and built by main contractor McLaughlin & Harvey. In total, 10 arches featuring on the front elevation were successfully manufactured to the same quality finish in factorycontrolled conditions and fitted seamlessly with the brickwork on site. Internally, three deep soffit arches were manufactured off site and then supplied to site.
The same levels of consistency and quality were essential on the Defence and National Rehabilitation Centre (DNRC) project designed by Purcell, Steffian Bradley Architects and John Simpson Architects, built by main contractor Interserve and brickwork contractor Lee Marley, and featuring builders’ merchants, EH Smith. Over 1000 brick slip feature arches and just under 3km of offsite cornice were manufactured and designed. It would have been a time-consuming, highly-skilled task to create arches and cornice using traditional methods on site, but offsite solutions enabled the creation of identical arches of various designs and cornice detail that would achieve the architect’s desired aesthetic.
The uniformity that was essential to these projects run the risk of being compromised if traditional trades were employed. However, with modular construction, this replication simply isn’t an issue. Taking the construction of complex brick features off site into factory-controlled conditions drives the level of quality and consistency that is needed to achieve excellence. On both of these projects, intricate brickwork detailing was completed to stunning effect, enabling the same quality finish every time.
A bespoke solution for architects
At IG Masonry Support, not only do we understand that architects need to be given creative authority over prefabricated brick features, but we also realise the importance of regulatory compliance and quality.
Achieving deep brick soffits and intricate brick bonds around window heads and openings is quick, easy and cost-efficient to achieve with our Brick On Soffit Systems (B.O.S.S. and B.O.S.S.+). These tailor-made bespoke solutions are designed and manufactured to meet the client’s specification. The systems are highly adjustable, enabling architects to design various shapes and depths of brick soffits whilst accommodating a wide range of bond patterns.
IG Masonry Support designed and manufactured the B.O.S.S. systems for 57 Broadwick Street and Stonebridge Park, London. On the first project – designed by Rolfe Judd Architecture, built by main contractor Blenheim House Construction and brickwork contractor Grangewood, and featuring EH Smith – curved and straight B.O.S.S. units and deep soffit panels were created to achieve a range of deep-tiled soffits, slender brick piers, and tile and brick banding on the building’s facades. For Stonebridge Park, London – built by main contractor Durkan and designed by architect firm Cullinan Studio – B.O.S.S. units were designed and manufactured for the intricate corbelled brick feature at the site’s entrance. This design was delivered in separate components that facilitated optimum adjustability, so the intricacy of the design could be achieved without compromising the speed and quality of construction.
To meet changes to Building Regulations, IG Masonry Support engineered B.O.S.S.+, an A2 fire-rated system suitable for use on projects that require Building Regulations Document B compliance. The second generation of its original B.O.S.S. system, B.O.S.S.+ comprises a stainless-steel framework with a cement particle board backing element to which the brick slips are adhesively bonded and mechanically fixed. In short, this BBA-certified solution ticked the boxes in all of the required areas and was available to the market in 2019.
Not resting on its laurels, IG Masonry Support’s next step was to create a fully non-combustible and carbon-neutral product. The BBA-certified B.O.S.S. A1 system is ‘A1’ fire-rated and has been subjected to hygrothermal testing. The product passed the rigorous examination with ease. As well as meeting current fire regulations regardless of the building’s height or purpose, the manufacturing process and environmental impacts will be significantly reduced.
No matter how ambitious the design, IG Masonry Support’s easy-to-install solutions can deliver significant reductions in installation time by up to 90%. Any higher initial costs can be offset by saving time and money in terms of labour. A quality finish that meets the required aesthetics and blends seamlessly with the surrounding brickwork can also be achieved.
Brick is a building material that has always been here to stay. Now that the likes of IG Masonry Support have engineered a solution that assures intricate brick detailing can be executed without compromise to quality, it will surely be used on many stunning structures for years to come.
HIGH-PERFORMANCE SEALED UNIT SECONDARY GLAZING INSTALLED IN A 250-YEAR-OLD GRANARY
Grade II Listed Hindmarsh Hall was originally one of three granaries at the south end of the village of Alnmouth, Northumberland. The fourth Duke of Northumberland had the building converted into an Anglican Chapel in 1859.
SELECTAGLAZE
In 1876, the chapel was made redundant, so the building was used and referred to as the ‘Town Hall’ for the ensuing 60 years. Leonard King Hindmarsh bought the dilapidated property in the 1930s, then some years later had it refurbished and gave it to the community of Alnmouth.
During 2003 and 2004, the trustees completed a programme of restoration and updating of the building; however, 14 years later, the building needed further renovations, following a comprehensive condition survey.
Giles Arthur Architects was employed to conceptualise the trustee’s vision, addressing structural issues, space planning and making
www.selectaglaze.co.uk
the building more energy efficient. Selectaglaze 4-12-4mm, low-E, sealed unit secondary glazing was specified to provide enhanced thermal insulation. All the openings have deep splayed reveals, so the secondary was fixed with a maximum cavity close to the wall face where it was wider, framing the primary window, allowing unrestricted opening of the units.
Fenestral, partner of Selectaglaze, managed the surveying and installation of the project. The tall lancet windows posed a challenge due to their height; 3350mm. Each of these openings were built up with a Series 41 side-hung casement set between two Series 40 fixed light units.
01727 837271
Selectaglaze is a specialist in secondary glazing, established in 1966 and a Royal Warrant Holder since 2004.
enquiries@selectaglaze.co.uk
ISO-CHEMIE IS BIM-READY
ISO-CHEMIE
As one of the leading manufacturers in the field of sealing technology, Iso-Chemie is now able provide architects and specialist planners with BIM-ready product data for its sealing and in-front-of-wall installation solutions. Building Information Modelling (BIM) is playing an increasingly significant role in the implementation of large and complex planning tasks. The first step was to create a range of BIM data from the ‘joint sealing tapes’, ‘multifunctional joint sealing tapes’ and ‘in-front-of-wall installation systems’ product families; these are available for download as BIM-ready objects. More products are at the planning stage. The BIM data can be used free of charge, either via the in-house ISO-PORTAL at portal.iso-chemie.eu or using an external BIM database. It can also be used in CAD software such as Autodesk Revit. An electronic CAD product catalogue will be available as a supplement to this.
NEW EURAMAX HIRE TO SPEARHEAD CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
EURAMAX SOLUTIONS
Euramax Solutions, a manufacturer of fenestration products to the construction, modular and leisure markets, has appointed an expert to spearhead constant improvement processes within the business. Tom Howard joins the company as the new Continuous Improvement and Process Engineering Manager, and with extensive experience in the military equipment sector, he’s the perfect man for the job. He brings with him a wealth of expertise, having previously worked as a Senior Continuous Improvement Engineer at Naylor Industries, and as a Production Engineering Manager at Niftylift, where he had complete responsibility for all production engineering staff. But it’s the skills and knowledge he gained as a Senior Project Engineer at MTL Advanced, a manufacturing specialist in the metal sector, that really sets him up to push innovation at Euramax. Here, Tom was the project lead for the manufacture of armoured vehicle cabins, responsible for the external supply chain management for projects.
BESPOKE CURTAIN WALLING BY KAWNEER HELPS GROUND A LANDMARK OFFICE BUILDING
Bespoke curtain walling by leading UK manufacturer Kawneer was preferred for an 11-storey office building at the heart of London’s architectural sector.
KAWNEER
Kawneer’s AA 265 unitised system was adapted by the company for the commercial element of the £200m Atlas building – at 40 storeys, the tallest tower in London’s Tech City area – at 145 City Road, Clerkenwell.
Concept-designed by Make Architects and delivered by the design delivery unit of Scott Brownrigg, the commercial building actually featured a total of three types of Kawneer’s curtain walling – the traditional stick system AA 110 (zone drained) on the ground floor, the adapted AA 265 on the floors above and standard unitised AA 201 on the 10th-floor return elevation to the existing building.
The adapted AA 265 modular system incorporated GRC and
www.kawneer.com
aluminium rainscreen cladding and glazed vision areas in each panel. Some 3m wide, 3.85m high and one tonne in weight, each unit was delivered to site and hoisted into position by a tower crane, complete with the cladding and glazing in place.
Kawneer’s Technical Proposals Engineer, Dave Fletcher, said: “The basic AA 265 design was revised to accommodate the building movement that had been identified by the structural engineers as it could accommodate the size of units and the GRC rainscreen units being pre-fixed to the panels.
“The system developments, including new profile and accessory design such as 19 project-specific dies, were all carried out by our technical department at our head office.”
Installed by specialist sub-contractor Mace Facades for main contractor Mace, the Kawneer systems also included thermally-superior AA 720 entrance doors on all floors.
01928 502500
ASSA ABLOY DOOR GROUP’S WHOLE-LIFE APPROACH TO TIMBER AND STEEL DOORSETS
ASSA ABLOY DOOR GROUP
ASSA ABLOY Door Group, a unit of ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland, offers a cradle-tograve approach for its steel and timber doorsets while the UK prepares for a year of recovery. Despite the UK expecting a slow movement back towards normality, there’s no doubt that 2021 will still see the majority of us spending more time at home. Experts suggest that during this time, architects, specifiers, contractors, landlords, facilities managers and house-builders should ensure living environments are up-to-date, safe and secure. ASSA ABLOY Door Group, on top of offering a complete doorset solution by manufacturing doors, hardware and ironmongery, boasts the capability of managing the entire doorset process.
GLASS VISIBLE TO BIRDS DEVELOPED TO HELP PROTECT WILDLIFE
PILKINGTON UNITED KINGDOM
Pilkington United Kingdom, part of the NSG Group, has developed Pilkington AviSafe – a new glass with a special coating designed to help prevent birds from colliding with the windows and facades of buildings. Most birds collide with glass when they confuse what’s visible in its reflection for the real thing, such as trees or an open sky. Pilkington AviSafe features a UV-enhanced pattern that’s more visible to birds than it is to humans, which helps to prevent these collisions and ensures maximum transparency, while maintaining the aesthetical appeal of glass in architecture.
SENIOR TAKES AN ACTIVE ROLE IN THE LEISURE SECTOR
SENIOR ARCHITECTURAL SYSTEMS
With daylighting and natural ventilation having an important impact on both physical and mental wellbeing, Senior Architectural Systems has seen an increase in demand for its aluminium fenestration systems in the fitness and leisure sector. Senior has provided the full fenestration package for various contracts across the UK, with specifiers opting for the effective combination of energyefficient and low-maintenance aluminium curtain walls, windows and commercial doors sourced from a sole supplier. The company’s expertise in the fitness and leisure sector has led to the creation of a strong supply chain and number of repeat business opportunities, including multiple contracts with main contractor Pelikaan and specialist fabricator and installer Elite Aluminium Systems.
HELPING TO PRESERVE AN INDUSTRIAL LANDSCAPE
Two former furniture factory buildings in East London have been transformed into high-end apartments with the help of Crittall Windows.
CRITTALL WINDOWS
Long Street in the Hackney conservation area was a key component in Shoreditch’s industrial heritage. The area was once the heart of the capital’s furniture trade and, following the Second World War when large tracts of land were earmarked for comprehensive re-development, the then London County Council sought to preserve the district’s characteristic built environment as well as local business by constructing what were termed ‘flatted factories’.
The four-storey structural steel-framed blocks were built in Long Street in 1959 with plenty of natural daylight and generously-sized lifts for transporting uncut sheets of plywood to the upper floors.
The two blocks now form part of a luxury residential development, Long and Waterson. Architect firm Fletcher Priest has taken its design cue from the industrial lineage of the area, retaining original external brickwork and window settings and adding two rooftop penthouse levels, creating a total of 71 apartments.
Crittall Corporate W20 and MW40 systems were specified in fixed and opening format together with Crittall cold form tubular doors that meet the RC3 burglary resistance security standard; a choice that preserves both the original appearance and the industrial heritage of the area.
DRIVING SECURITY FORWARD WITH THE COMPLETE PACKAGE
If you were selecting a car for security reasons, would you be looking for one that just had four wheels, an engine and a door you could lock? No, of course not! You would rightly be interested in its overall performance, verified roadworthy tests, the quality of its components; not to mention other safety features and, naturally, its appearance and stylish kerb appeal. Selecting the right Secured by Design (SBD) doorkit is not dissimilar.
VICAIMA
It’s not simply a case of meeting the minimum requirement, with a piece of paper that says SBDtested. After all, there is so much more to consider in the modern build environment, from fire rating to lifecycle expectations and installation to design flexibility. Portaro SBD interior timber entrance doorkits from Vicaima provides just that scope, with ease of assembly, quality materials, outstanding performance and design appeal as standard, all encased in one of the most comprehensively certificated products on the market.
Of course, one of the first considerations for any project or development is how will it look and fit in with the project design theme. The Portaro SBD system provides a rarity in today’s somewhat limited market. With matching door, frame and architrave in a myriad of veneered, foil, laminate, paint lacquered and even special finishes, the Portaro system offers complete design freedom, so that performance does not equate to compromising aesthetics.
Beyond the finish itself, design configuration also offers flexibility, with a choice of either a conventional architrave or for a seamless face the Inverse system, where the door sits flush with its surroundings. All door systems incorporate a threepoint locking system, handle and security escutcheon, together with an automatic dropseal.
STAYING SAFE UNDER FIRE
Staying safe may have taken on a new meaning in the past year, but fire safety remains top of the agenda for the construction industry. Susan Sinden, Commercial Manager of ESG Group, explains why fire safety glass is still one of the most important safety measures in keeping occupants safe in a wide variety of non-domestic properties.
ESG GROUP
When building or refurbishing almost any commercial or public building, it is essential to observe and comply with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which came into force in October 2006. Since that time, awareness of fire safety measures has improved greatly, and the range of products designed to minimise the risk of the spread of fire has also increased.
One such product is fire-resistant safety glass, which has become surprisingly better developed and versatile over the past decade and a half. There are several versions of fireresistant safety glass, so it is essential to specify the most appropriate type for any individual project. Perhaps the most pressing consideration is the amount of time that would be needed to evacuate the property in the event of a fire.
In the past, fire-resistant safety glass usually came in two main types. The first is integrity-only fire-resistant safety glass, classified as type ‘E’ under BS 476 Pt 22 and BS EN 1364 Pt 1 1999. In the event of a fire, this integrity-only glass contains flames, smoke and gases, but not heat. The second type is integrity and fully insulating fire-resistant safety glass, denoted as type ‘EI’ under the same regulations. In addition to containing the fire, this second type of glass also limits the transfer of heat. Using modern processing methods, however, we can now produce a hybrid product, which can deliver a partial containment of radiated heat, but without carrying a prohibitive price tag. This is denoted as type ‘EW’ under BS regulations and is increasingly popular with specifiers, as it represents a ‘best-of-both-worlds’ option.
In the event of a fire, EW classified glass will help to safeguard the property’s occupants, but will also help limit the damage to the building itself. This gives the architect scope to realise their design using a practical, affordable product, while also providing the property’s owners, and its legally responsible person, with added peace of mind.
Fire-resistant safety glass is specified according to the time for which it can delay fire from spreading. This is assessed under strict testing in fire conditions. For many properties, 30 minutes is entirely adequate for evacuation, especially if it used mostly in business hours by relatively fit and active people.
However, if the property is to be used for sleeping, by the elderly, or those with limited mobility, it is vital to delay any fire for longer. This may apply to hospitals, care homes, hotels and even secure premises such as prisons. The use of the premises is usually critical. Manufacturing premises, where flammable materials are stored, will also often fall into this category. In these settings, a product that provides 60 minutes of protection will be more appropriate. Full insulation is also possible using a multi-layered fireresistant glass, which can provide up to 120 minutes of protection, so it is also a good idea to ask the glass processor for advice on the best product to use. If in any doubt, it is wise to consult the owner or end-user, and to take advice from fire and rescue services before specifying.
The efficiency of fire-resistant safety glass is also partly dependent on the frames in which it is installed, so do make sure that the glass and the frames are compatible before specifying. When specifying, it is wise to look for Certifire approval, which is a good indication of a quality product. Certifire is an independently-run, UKAS-accredited centre that assesses test evidence from fire-resistant safety glass products and gives guidance on the kinds of materials with which they can be used, without compromising their effectiveness.
In the past, it has been difficult to source large panels of integrity-only fireresistant safety glass to use with steel frames. With the advent of glass such as ESG’s Pyrotech 660, a toughened laminated fire-safety glass that passes all relevant BS standards, this problem has been solved, and the larger sized panes are now freely available.
It should be noted that the performance of fire-resistant safety glass can be compromised if cracked or broken, so any damaged panels should be replaced immediately.
FAST-SETTING CONCRETE REPAIRS WITH MAPEGROUT SV T NOW AVAILABLE IN GREY
Mapei’s Mapegrout SV T is a quick-setting and hardening thixotropic mortar for repairing concrete slabs, both flat and sloped, and for repairing concrete elements such as drains and urban fixtures.
MAPEI
Mapegrout SV T can also be used for bedding, setting and fixing of manholes, drains and street furniture. Due to its thixotropic nature, it can also be used on vertical surfaces.
Produced in the UK, the shrinkage-compensated mortar is suitable for repairing concrete slabs, industrial floors and for construction work in areas that need to be reopened to traffic quickly, such as roads and other places including airports, ports, shopping centres and warehouses.
Mapegrout SV T is also suitable for fixing road signs, crash barriers and fences in place.
Due to its excellent hardening properties, Mapegrout SV T can be subjected to both foot and vehicle traffic in less than two hours after application.
This one-component, high-strength pre-blended mortar comes in powder form and can be applied up to 120mm on horizontal surfaces and up to 50mm in one application of vertical surfaces. It’s available in black and grey for all concrete repairs.
www.mapei.co.uk 0121 508 6970 info@mapei.co.uk
GUIDING THE FUTURE OF SWIMMING POOLS
Across Europe, there has been a surge in the swimming pool sector. With many more people staying at home and foreign travel restricted, both domestic and commercial pool manufacturers have seen a rise in new builds and renovation of existing pools.
TROLDTEKT
In the UK, it is expected that now Brexit has been finalised, investors in UK hotels, spas and high-end residences will drive the wet leisure market further.
In a new feature on its website, leading acoustic panel manufacturer Troldtekt summarises the knowledge, trends and examples which will help influence the design of swimming centres today and in the future.
The feature includes 16 trends compiled by the International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities. These cover everything from economics and digital features to new uses and products which influence the architecture of pools and their construction.
Pools can be used for different purposes and by quite different groups of people. This places demand on designers and developers to provide perfect layouts and solutions to create the best atmosphere.
One of the most important aspects, and one universally agreed across all types of user, is the control of noise. For example, absorption of the loud sounds from splashing, shouting and playing is essential. This is why Troldtekt’s acoustic wood-wool panels are often specified, because of their durability and appearance. They are also naturally breathable, meaning they will absorb and release moisture making them perfect for wet area installations.
Founded on the Cradle to Cradle design concept, the natural and inherently sustainable panels are available in a variety of different surfaces and colours, and contribute to a building’s BREEAM, DGNB and LEED ratings. In addition to their high sound absorption and tactile surface, they offer high durability and low-cost lifecycle performance. Available in various sizes and in four grades from extreme to coarse, the panels can be left untreated or painted in virtually any RAL colour.
ILLUMINATING NORDIC COPPER
A bespoke perforated solar screen, formed from Nordic Blue Living 3 pre-patinated copper, defines the new Senior Learning Centre building at Ravenswood School for Girls in Gordon on Sydney’s North Shore, creating a fresh landmark along the Pacific Highway.
AURUBIS
Architect firm BVN’s design for the multifunctional senior learning centre optimises a 6.5m-level difference across the site, with extensive glazing to the lower two floors opening out onto terraces, a garden and other external space. The upper two floors are differentiated by Nordic Blue Living 3 copper screens, creating a transparent skin enwrapping the building and jettied out over the lower levels. Upper-level gabled facades reflect the roof form, inspired by residential houses previously on the site and still found throughout Ravenswood campus. Large window openings with deep, copper-clad reveals ‘punch’ through the copper screen to break up the elevations, enable clear, uninterrupted views across the grounds and introduce coloured light via glass bricks.
Striking Nordic Blue
During the design stages, different facade materials were assessed via a series of in-context visualisations and samples of natural copper, various pre-aged copper surfaces and other metals reviewed. BVN Senior Associate, Phillip Rowden, commented: “Nordic Blue Living 3 prepatinated copper was selected for the perforated screens because of its striking colour contrast with the predominantly masonry surroundings on campus. Our material palette required high proportions of recycled content and low embodied energy. High-quality materials, such as copper, were selected for the exterior with longevity a key consideration – materials that are robust, beautiful and will stand the test of time.”
To create the perforated screens, a distinctive repeat pattern – inspired by the shape of gum tree seedlings found on site – were laser-cut into the prepatinated copper sheets by supplier/ fabricator CASA Systems. Installer ARC Roofing then worked closely with the architects on complete facade detailing, also taking on the sub-framing, required to be as light and unobtrusive as possible. Detailed layouts of the 500 or so panels were created to ensure continuity of the pattern and panel alignment – which ARC mastered with enthusiasm – followed by 95% offsite manufacture. The exceptional quality of installation, attention to detail and execution of the project pays testament to ARC’s expertise in architectural copper.
Mediating heat and light
Being set in front of the thermal envelope of the building, the copper screens mediate light and thermal penetration, reducing cooling load whilst allowing the interiors to feel light and airy. The resulting combination of colours from framed areas of amber and blue glass bricks, vignettes of clear open views and areas with filtered light from the perforated copper screen give each space a unique feel and view. Phillip Rowden added: “When you’re in the classrooms, the perforated screen throws dappled light on surfaces and shadows onto the white walls, creating an ever-changing canvas. The light falls on surfaces in very different ways, making it a living element, changing throughout the day. But at night, the building undergoes a transformation, acting as a lantern illuminating outwards to the community.”
Nordic Blue is a factory-applied patina developed with properties and colours based on the same brochantite mineralogy found in natural patinas all over the world. In marine climates, the natural copper
patina contains some copper chloride giving it a blue-green colour, and this is emulated with Nordic Blue using 100 % brochantite. Another range, Nordic Green, is produced with a hint of iron sulphate yellow, replicating greener natural patinas.
Living surfaces
With both ranges, the process can be accurately controlled so that, as well as the solid patina colours, other intensities of patina flecks can be created, revealing some of the dark oxidised background material. These products are easily bent and formed, and there are no limitations on the length of copper sheet or strip because whole coils are treated on the production line, not just limited size panels.
Other architectural copper surfaces include Nordic Standard ‘mill finish’, as well as Nordic Brown pre-oxidised copper giving either light or dark brown oxidisation that otherwise takes time to develop in the environment. Copper alloys are also available for architectural applications, such as Nordic Bronze, Nordic Brass – which is also available pre-weathered – and the innovative Nordic Royal, an alloy with a long-lasting golden colour. The Nordic Copper range of architectural copper products is available from Aurubis, part of the world’s leading integrated copper group and largest copper recycler. All images: ©Tom Ferguson
UNIFOLD GUTTER SYSTEM SPECIFIED FOR WELSH DISTRIBUTION CENTRE PROJECT
AMPTEAM
Over 130m of the Unifold Gutter system was recently installed on a project for a distribution centre in Talbot Green, south Wales. The gutter capacity has been increased, and the lining system, as always, was completely engineered with this particular solution – which contained 32 siphonic outlets. All fabricated items are designed by Ampteam and made in-house, reducing the need for complicated site work and leaving operatives on site with only the double-sealed joint to complete.
STO EXTERNAL WALL INSULATION SYSTEM CHOSEN TO HELP MEET BREEAM TARGET
STO
An external wall insulation system from Sto has been used to help a new care home building achieve an impressive BREEAM rating. The company’s StoTherm Mineral system was specified for the Figbury Lodge Care Home in Poole, for its outstanding thermal insulation performance. The StoTherm Mineral system was installed onto a lightweight steel frame using Sto’s innovative Sto-Rotofix Plus fixings. These unique spiral fixings allow the insulation boards to be installed quickly and easily while retaining a high degree of flexibility. The boards can be adjusted by the spiral fixings to accommodate any unevenness in the substrate and so create a perfectly level surface ready for the render finish.
www.sto.co.uk 0141 892 8000 info.uk@sto.com
PREMIER MODULAR AWARDED £9.8M PROJECT FOR NEW UNIT AT ST PETER’S HOSPITAL
PREMIER MODULAR
Premier Modular, one of the UK’s leading offsite construction specialists, has been awarded a £9.8m project for Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to build a 62-bed priority assessment unit at St Peter’s Hospital in Chertsey. Main contractor Premier will be supported by strategic delivery partner Claritas Group. Due for completion by summer 2021, this fast-track building project will reduce the programme by up to nine months compared to in-situ construction. The speed of offsite manufacturing and fittingout will allow earlier occupation to support the increased demand for emergency care. Designed by BDP and delivery architect firm P+HS, the two-storey scheme will provide a new priority assessment unit.
ROCKWOOL LAUNCHES FLAT ROOF ZONING TOOL TO SUPPORT DESIGN AND SPECIFICATION
ROCKWOOL
ROCKWOOL has unveiled a new flat roof zoning tool designed to help specifiers and roofing contractors balance performance criteria, regulation compliance and design targets when choosing insulation. Hosted on the ROCKWOOL website, the tool has been created in recognition of the increasing prominence of flat roofs in contemporary building design. The new tool simplifies and optimises insulation design by zoning flat roofs according to how each area will be used. Users start by drawing a plan outline of the roof, then create zones before setting properties for each area. Via the tool, users can incorporate details including rain noise performance (BB93), airborne noise reduction, thermal performance and product mechanical strength. Once inputted, the tool recommends the best ROCKWOOL non-combustible stone wool insulation for each roof zone. With time-saving at its heart, the ROCKWOOL Flat Roof Zoning Tool allows results to be easily exported for integration into wider design and specification plans.
CROWN PAINTS ANNOUNCES COLOUR TRENDS SET TO SHAPE SPRING/SUMMER 2021
CROWN PAINTS
Crown Paints has named its three latest key colour trends, which will shape interior design and architecture for spring/summer 2021 and beyond. This year, Crown Paints’ panel of colour experts sought inspiration from the world around us. The result is three considered colour trends for 2021. The three trends each have a distinct identity, and the panel highlights both hero shades and complementary colours within each. The panel has identified the trends for spring/summer as ‘Witty’, ‘Foresight’ and ‘Cocoon’. ‘Witty’ is upbeat and quirky – a real celebration of colour. The second colour trend is ‘Foresight’. Although it’s primarily about looking to the future, this trend is inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement. Taking a different approach is the final colour trend ‘Cocoon’. This trend is centred around the desire to create a place of sanctuary and quiet calm, using soft neutral tones and muted shades to soothe and comfort.
GET SPRING-READY
DR. SCHUTZ
Now that the days and evenings are becoming brighter, brown patios, green fencing and grubby outdoor furniture are just some of the sights we’re beginning to see. To aid the dreaded task of exterior cleaning and maintenance, Dr. Schutz brings you three of its most popular products perfect for transforming your outdoors. Restore the natural colour of your outdoor wood with an intensive cleaning agent for all wood surfaces which have turned grey with Dr. Schutz Wood Refresher. Stone Care is a concentrated cleaner for the removal of dirt, grime, grease and other micro-organisms on stone and tile floors. This product benefits from a high coverage of 1000m2/litre. Intensive Cleaner is a thoroughly-effective and powerful deep cleaner for the removal of dirt, grime, algae, moss, grease and micro-organisms from any outdoor surface. Garden furniture, decking, fencing, stonework, brick walls, garden ornaments, steps, driveways, paths, patios and concrete are just some of the surfaces which can benefit from using this cleaner.
www.drschutz.co.uk 01296 437827
A WELL-EXECUTED WELLNESS HUB
HELMSMAN LOCKERS AND CUBICLES
A new £5m refurbishment and extension to the Blyth Sports Centre in Sunderland has been completed by Brims Construction. Designed as a ‘wellness hub’, the facility includes a new stateof-the-art gym and spa together with a modernised pool and changing areas. For the scheme by JDDK Architects, Helmsman Lockers and Cubicles designed, supplied and installed a range of lockers and seating in both the spa and dry areas of the centre. To keep the look uniform across the project, high-pressure laminate was used for both seating and lockers. The spa area features ‘wet spec’ bespoke bench seating topped with an Abet laminate in a teak finish and complemented with matching two-compartment leisure lockers. The woodgrain effect exudes an air of luxury throughout the space, and the clever use of extending it to the bench seating and adding a floor in complementary tones creates a stunning overall effect.
TAKING A BOLD STEP
PREMIER LOFT LADDERS
Loft ladders do not come any bolder than this stunning Elite concertina loft ladder from Premier Loft Ladders. Two identical ladders were ordered for export to the USA. The heavy-duty Elite is supplied without a hatch, making it ideal for a wide range of applications. Furthermore, the advanced counterbalance system makes it very easy to operate. For this project, safety was the main priority, so the Elite loft ladders were finished in a durable ‘sulphur yellow’ powder coat and fitted with two telescopic handrails. Visit Premier Loft Ladders’ website to read the full case study.
FIRE PROTECTION UPGRADE FOR WEST LOTHIAN COMMERCIAL PROPERTY
TBA FIREFLY
Scotland’s biggest building services contractor has just completed upgrading the fire compartmentation within an existing West Lothian warehouse building. The property is making use of products from the range of TBA Firefly, including APOLLO 30/30 membrane to create new fire barriers, together with TBA’s expert advice and installer training. Stirling-based FES Group’s fire-stopping division carried out the installation of the APOLLO 30/30 fire barriers as part of a far-reaching update of the property’s mechanical and electrical services, on behalf of the owner who will also operate the storage facility. The APOLLO Lite 30/30 has been developed for use in vertical separation or compartmentation situations, offering 30 minutes’ integrity and insulation, thereby exceeding the minimum requirements of the Building Regulations.
KNIGHTSBRIDGE PLAYS ITS SMART HAND
KNIGHTSBRIDGE
In a move to offer contractors and its customers the benefits of smart home technology, Knightsbridge is launching a comprehensive range of intelligent wiring accessories and lighting products that can be controlled by its very own app, SmartKnight. At the heart of the range are the two 13A, two-gang, smart switched sockets, manufactured to match the designs of its existing square and curvededge range of moulded switches and sockets. These feature a power monitoring function so that the homeowner can see live power usage on the socket in kWh, and a green indicator on the socket shows if the relevant gang is on. Appliances attached to the socket will be controllable remotely or by voice.
IMPROVE YOUR UNDERSTANDING OF BS 8629 WITH ADVANCED
ADVANCED CO
Fire protection solutions manufacturer Advanced has launched two new courses to aid understanding of the BS 8629 Code of Practice recommendations and the EvacGo system designed to meet them. ‘A Guide to Meeting BS 8629’ is a continuing professional development course, approved by the FIA and the CPD Certification Service, suitable for all those responsible for fire safety in tall residential buildings. Delivered online by the Advanced evacuation alert team – Ken Bullock, Advanced’s Business Development Manager, and Shaun Scott, Applications Engineer for Evacuation Alert Systems – the one-hour session covers a range of essential BS 8629 facts, from key clauses, evacuation alert zones and siting of devices, to evacuation alert control and indicating equipment, its commissioning and handover. As well as the accredited CPD course, Advanced has also launched a new training programme for its EvacGo evacuation alert system. Aimed primarily at installers and engineers, the training course covers practical content, including panel and software configuration guidance.
INTRODUCING KOMFORT WASHROOMS
KOMFORT WASHROOMS
Following the pandemic, there have been huge advances made in washroom design. As part of Komfort’s ongoing commitment to meet the needs of the modernday commercial space and using its extensive product knowledge, the brand has introduced its Komfort Washrooms collection. Partnering with innovative product and interior designers, this washroom range reflects Komfort’s reputation for quality and product design. The Komfort Washroom collection brings together the latest trends in bathroom design, materials and colour with the eco and technological credentials demanded of future washrooms. The range focuses on creating efficient spaces with plenty of contemporary style and a sense of comfort, luxury and practicality. Choice is key with this collection – the offer includes a variety of full-height, individual and glass cubicle systems along with complementary bespoke vanity units, sanitaryware and brassware. The collection includes every element needed to create stylish and individual contemporary washrooms. With a carefully-selected range of completely interchangeable key finishes, colours and shapes, there is a unique solution for every project.
Weatherproof your gutters at a cost you can afford.
ECO-LINER from Ampteam. Another clever but cost effective product designed to last. Ampteam have created a family of innovative products that combat the ever increasing deluge of bad weather we have in the UK.
Unrivalled excellence in gutter lining technology. gutter lining technology. www.gutterliners.com
SIKA ENHANCES PERFORMANCE OF ITS LIQUID-APPLIED WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS
Staying true to its culture of innovation, Sika has launched Sikalastic-625N, an upgraded version of one of its most popular liquid-applied single-component polyurethane waterproofing membranes, Sikalastic-625.
SIKA
www.sika.co.uk/roofing 01707 394444
This versatile, durable cold-applied membrane is used up and down the UK in a range of flat roof applications, from industrial and commercial roofs to balconies and walkways. The new and improved Sikalastic-625N incorporates Sika’s patented i-Cure Technology, an enhanced chemistry that gives the product greater temperature stability, extended shelf life and improved workability.
Thanks to these benefits, the waterproofing membrane is capable of curing in a wide range of conditions, making it ideal for use in the unpredictable UK climate. Application is quick, easy and will not be delayed by adverse weather, which is a huge benefit for the specifier, contractor and client.
Gavin White, Marketing and Product Manager at Sika Roofing, said: “We’re excited to be able to offer our customers the benefits of our exclusive new i-Cure Technology with the launch of Sikalastic-625N. It delivers a whole host of performance enhancements while maintaining the trusted weather-resistant waterproofing properties of its predecessor.
“Sika has been manufacturing high-performance protection and waterproofing systems for over 50 years, and we’re proud of that expertise. Our aim isn’t just to pioneer new market-leading technologies, but also to continually improve existing ones – especially those that are already loved by our customers.”
The high quality and durability achieved by this membrane is evidenced by its BBA and ETA accreditations. Sikalastic-625N is a direct replacement and upgrade to the existing Sikalastic-625 formulation and will be available in the same colour range and tin sizes. Coverage rates and guarantees – 10, 15 and 20 years – also remain the same.
enquiries@uk.sika.com
47 IS THE NEW 50 – HAVE YOU SWITCHED YET?
SIMPSON STRONG-TIE
Building safer, stronger structures requires more than just topquality joist hangers; equally important is choosing the correctsized joist hanger. Regularised timber is now the UK standard, which means 50mm hangers are yesterday’s news. Unlike rough sawn timber, where the width of a joist can be anything up to 50mm, regularised timber is planed down and the edges rounded for consistency, so regularised timber is always 45mm. At Simpson Strong-Tie, the company knows that size matters. Regulated hanger sizes have long been offered across its hanger ranges. National Builder’s Merchant Sales Manager, Steve Allen, explains: “Our 47mm range provides the correct, secure fit. Using 50mm-wide hangers leaves a gap between the hanger and the joist, which not only requires structural packing in order to meet regulations, but can still result in twisting timber and squeaky floors. The wider the hanger, the more important it is to use regularised sizing – and Simpson offer it as standard.”
ISO-CHEMIE HAS NEW CAPITAL WINDOWS INSTALLATION SEALED
ISO-CHEMIE
Improved levels of acoustic and energy insulation will be provided following the specification of Iso-Chemie’s advanced sealing tape for windows at a new mixed-used development in Central London. More than 1000m of ISO BLOCO 600 tape and 300m of BLOCO ONE tape has been installed to support the conversion of unused office space to a high-class entertainment venue at 6 Grafton Street in Mayfair, providing long-term protection against wind-blown rain ingress as well as an effective acoustic and thermal seal. The self-adhesive BLOCO ONE, which uses ‘smart’ foam technology impregnated with different substances to create a measurable U-value as low as 0.6w/m2k, can offer excellent thermal insulation and can contribute to acoustic sound reduction by 63 dB. Specified to meet stringent project sealing and quality requirements, the sealant tape is part of a fenestration installation package, which includes Schüco Jansen windows, completed by architectural metalwork engineer, Martec Engineering.
ROCKWOOL SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2020: USE LESS, GREEN THE REST
ROCKWOOL
Trucost, part of S&P Global, has classified all ROCKWOOL Group products as having a positive impact on the UN Sustainable Development Goals, while the company has met or exceeded two of its six sustainability targets ahead of time. As Governments and societies continue grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, greening the economic recovery takes on even greater significance. ROCKWOOL Group’s Sustainability Report 2020 details the contribution the company’s product makes toward this goal, including updates on operational improvements and progress on supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Reducing energy and resource consumption is essential to addressing the global climate challenge, and ROCKWOOL products play a key role.
OSMO UK
Country Colour from Osmo UK offers an opaque, satin wood finish for exterior wood. Available in 19 standard colours, 186 RAL Classic and 1950 NCS colours, it is the ideal finish to renew previously stained, weathered or discoloured wood surfaces and provide a standout colour feature to your property. The range promises premium durability and a rich colour, hiding the natural colour and grain of the wood whilst enhancing its natural texture. The finish not only rejuvenates the wood, but leaves it protected against the unpredictable British weather for many years to come. Country Colour can be applied to a range of wood species, including oily and exotic materials.
www.osmouk.com 01296 481220 sales@osmouk.com
SAPPHIRE MEETS DELIVERY CHALLENGE AT GREENWICH MILLENIUM VILLAGE
SAPPHIRE
Sapphire’s industry-leading balcony design and offsite manufacturing capabilities were integral to success when the programme for Greenwich Millennium Village (GMV) phase 5 was shortened so the development could be completed ahead of schedule. Balconies for 71 homes had to be delivered quickly and efficiently, without compromising on precision and quality control. The principal challenge was the delivery time. Sapphire’s offsite modular balcony system, featuring its Glide-On technology, provided the perfect solution. Sapphire was able to manufacture, prepare and store balconies for the project at its offsite location, saving the client storage space on site. The balconies, including Crystal frameless, structural glass balustrades, decking and soffits, could then be delivered as needed.
DEANESTOR DELIVERS £1M CONTRACT TO FIT-OUT THE LARGEST NEW SCHOOL PROJECT IN SCOTLAND
DEANESTOR
Deanestor has completed a contract worth over £1m for Morrison Construction for the manufacture and installation of fixed furniture for The Barony Campus in Cumnock, East Ayrshire – the most innovative, ambitious and inclusive learning facility in Scotland. Deanestor fitted-out 324 rooms across the 23,000m2 campus, helping to create an outstanding learning environment. This has included the manufacture and installation of bespoke furniture such as 117 primary and secondary learning walls, 1800 storage cabinets, 1500m of linear worktops, lockers, benching for the sports facilities and kitchens for three food technology laboratories. Height-adjustable tables throughout the campus were designed to meet DDA requirements, and there is a kitchen for the life skills room.
WILLMOTT DIXON AWARDS £3.5M BATHROOM POD CONTRACTS TO OFFSITE SOLUTIONS
OFFSITE SOLUTIONS
Willmott Dixon has awarded two contracts totalling £3.5m to Offsite Solutions to supply bathroom pods for a £78m regeneration scheme in Birmingham. This use of offsite manufacturing will increase time efficiency by 30% as well as maximise the cost, quality and sustainability benefits. Offsite Solutions is manufacturing 692 steel-framed bathroom and en-suite shower pods for two apartment buildings. Each pod features contemporary grey floor and wall tiles, a wall-mounted D-shaped hand basin and heated towel rail. The bath has a hand-held shower on a sliding rail. The shower rooms are fitted-out with a hand-held rain shower, a large shower tray and sliding glass door. There is also a single-bar towel rail adjacent to the shower or bath.
IDS EXCLUSIVE UK DISTRIBUTOR FOR SWISS KRONO BE.SAFE ANTIVIRAL SURFACE PROTECTION
INTERNATIONAL DECORATIVE SURFACES (IDS)
Global decorative panel manufacturer Swiss Krono has launched BE.SAFE, a pioneering anti-viral treatment that offers triple protection from viruses, bacteria and fungi. The innovative new BE.SAFE surface technology can be specified across the entire Swiss Krono One World range, on any of the 128 decors and any material combination in melamine-faced chipboard, MF MDF and compact density fibreboard (CDF), which are widely used in furniture manufacturing in the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom sector, as well as in commercial, leisure and hospitality applications. The BE.SAFE One World products will be exclusively available for nationwide delivery through IDS, with whom Swiss Krono has a long-established exclusive distribution partnership.
