PROJECT INSIGHT

The Sky Is The Limit For The Riverside Museum, Glasgow, With The Help Of Bilco UK

Housing the Glasgow Museum of Transport, one of the UK’s foremost transport and technology collections, the Riverside Museum reflects Glasgow’s historic role as a centre of shipbuilding, train manufacturing and engineering. Previously located in a former tram depot on the Glasgow South Side, the Transport Museum’s exhibits have moved to The Riverside Museum, designed by renowned architect, Zaha Hadid.

The museum’s iconic and beautiful design dominates its riverside location, whilst paying homage to the heritage of its surroundings. Crucial to the museum’s flowing design is its roof, which curves and undulates and continues around the east and west sides of the building to constitute the majority of the external structure. Silver-grey zinc panels complete the effect, placing the building firmly in the context of the River Clyde.

As part of the roof construction, Bilco UK was commissioned to manufacture and supply a E-50TB Roof Access Hatch, in addition to two ESW-50REM Smoke Vents, to meet strict requirements for convenient access and building safety regulations. Both the roof access hatch and smoke vents were custom-designed to unique specifications by Bilco UK’s in house team and clad in zinc to create a seamless, aesthetic finish with the museum’s distinctive roof. Expertly engineered to meet the requirements of Manual Handling Regulations, the E-50TB Roof Access Hatch allows for regular and convenient maintenance by facilitating easy one-handed operation.

The Access Hatch will enable engineers with small tools to safely access the roof to conduct essential maintenance, whilst its overlapping cover design, fully welded corners and insulated cover ensure both weather tightness and energy efficiency to deliver the highest standards of longevity for the museum.

Specified to ensure strict adherence with relevant fire safety regulations, the two ESW-50REM Smoke Vents open to 140 degrees in the event of a fire within 60 seconds, guaranteeing the highest standards in fire safety and allowing for the venting of smoke, heat and noxious gases in the event of a fire. Open to Glasgow to the North and the Clyde to the South, the museum’s interior is complex, inviting visitors to snake their way around the various exhibits. www.bilcouk.co.uk

CUT-TO-FALLS MULTIBOARD HELPS DRAIN TOP FLOOR BALCONY

An experienced builder and roofing contractor has made use of some 300 standard and tapered Marmox Multiboards to complete a complex refurbishment of a large, top floor balcony on an apartment building in North London. Lightwood Construction carries out work for mainly residential clients right across the capital and has used Marmox Multiboards on many occasions in the past for both interior and exterior applications.

In this instance, long term exposure to the weather and ponding had caused the original waterproofing system to deteriorate, and leaks to occur. Having stripped off all of the rotten felt and boarding, Lightwood Construction’s operatives installed 90 sheets of 20mm thick standard Multiboards, along with 200 of the cutto-falls variant enabling subtle gradients to be created in draining the balcony to multiple outlets.

Equally suitable for wet room applications, Marmox’s Sloping Boards are made from the same waterproofing products as Multiboard - thermally insulating XPS sandwiched between two layers of Marmox’s patented polymer-concrete. The boards have undergone rigorous tests to ensure they are suitable for external use so can be used on the most exposed balconies, as well as inside a wet room. The board is produced in just one size, 1200 x 1200mm, with the edge thickness tapering from 33mm down to 10mm at the opposite side. They can be combined with layers of 20mm thick Marmox Multiboard to extend the slope indefinitely. www.marmox.co.uk

WRAPTITE® CHOSEN FOR ZERO CARBON HOMES OFFSITE DEVELOPMENT

The Wraptite external air barrier system from A. Proctor Group has been chosen for an exciting low energy homes offsite project for developer Osco Homes. Commissioned by Kirklees Council, the site will demonstrate how high quality, energy-efficient housing can be achieved using offsite construction. The bungalows are designed to be light, spacious, and desirable but must also mitigate fuel poverty and provide a safe and healthy environment where residents can live.

The superior airtightness performance of the Wraptite membrane from the A. Proctor Group is the perfect solution, delivering significant benefits to the combination of infactory manufacture and on-site housing construction.

The Wraptite air barrier system offers a safer and simplified membrane system. It provides a fully self-adhered vapour permeable air barrier certified by the BBA and combines the critical properties of vapour permeability and airtightness in one self-adhering membrane.

The self-adhesive membrane is easily applied in the factory, bonded externally to the substrate, and ensures that the membrane is held firmly in place, even during transportation, maintaining the quality of the system from installation to build and completion. www.proctorgroup.com

Educational Nordic Copper

The architectural clarity of a new teaching facility at Gresham’s School in Norfolk – incorporating panels of Nordic Brown Light pre-oxidised copper alongside full-height glazing – typifies an innovative approach to education. Enabled by Sir James Dyson, a former pupil at the school, the centre for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) education is a state-of-the-art structure at the heart of the School campus. WilkinsonEyre’s design develops and refines the evolving STEAM building typology, and follows a modern aesthetic integrating industrial components with landscaping and low energy systems.

Opaque & Perforated Panels - The two-storey exposed steel frame envelopes a mixture of large panels: some glass and others Nordic Brown Light pre-oxidised copper – either opaque or with square perforations adding transparency whilst screening glazing behind. Some of the panels are set back within the structure, introducing landscaped open areas which can be used for outside teaching. Integrated planting blurs the boundaries between outside and in. The thoroughly modern building remains sympathetic to its historic context and its scale reflects that of the 1916 school chapel across the lawn. Meanwhile, the patterns in the Nordic Brown Light copper panels mirror decorative flint details on the chapel elevation.

Building as a Teaching Tool - Yasmin Al-Ani Spence, Director at WilkinsonEyre, said: “This building will provide contemporary teaching spaces for the investigation of the sciences and the arts simultaneously, enhancing critical thinking and promoting innovation. The building itself – through the clarity and honesty of design and construction - becomes a teaching tool in its own right.”

With an area totalling 4000m², teaching spaces are generous and filled with light. They include classrooms, laboratories, workshops, an auditorium and open-plan common spaces able to host a variety of teaching and learning uses. An inviting and interactive internal courtyard, doubling up as circulation, features an arts hub, seating area, and IT point and facilities, further reinforcing the integration of art, design, and science.

Photos: Peter Landers The building is equipped with the latest technology to ensure the highest levels of teaching, from robotics and Artificial Intelligence to programming and machine learning. The building will also provide greatly improved opportunities for the outreach programme which Gresham’s runs with local schools.

Performance & Appearance Naturally - Nordic Brown copper provides the same oxidised brown surface that otherwise develops over time in the environment. The thickness of the oxide layer determines the colour of the surface finish with dark or the lighter ‘Nordic Brown Light’ shades of brown. Nordic Brown is part of an extensive range of architectural copper surfaces and alloys with an unrivalled lifespan, no maintenance and full recyclability. With a melting point of 1083˚C and ‘A1 (non-combustible material)’ fire classification to EN 13501-1, copper is suitable for cladding tall buildings, using appropriate constructions.

Living Copper Surfaces - Apart from Nordic Brown, and also Nordic Standard ‘mill finish’ copper, Nordic Blue, Nordic Green and Nordic Turquoise pre-patinated surfaces have been developed with properties and colours based on the same brochantite mineralogy found in natural

patinas all over the world. As well as the solid patina colours, ‘Living’ surfaces are available for each colour with other intensities of patina flecks revealing some of the dark oxidised background material. Copper alloys are growing in popularity as well, including Nordic Bronze and Nordic Brass – which can also be supplied pre-weathered. The innovative Nordic Royal is an alloy of copper with aluminium and zinc, giving it a rich golden through-colour and making it very stable. A wide choice of Nordic Decor mechanically applied surface treatments is also available for various surfaces and alloys, particularly suited to interior applications. A growing series of on-line ‘copper stories’ exemplify the best in contemporary architecture and showcase the diversity of surfaces, forms and applications available with Nordic Copper today. www.nordiccopper.com or email: NordicCopper@aurubis.com

Sto Provides The External Wall Insulation System And Façade Finish For Striking New Galway Hotel

A portfolio of Sto products has been used to provide outstanding thermal performance for a prestigious new hotel in Ireland. The company’s StoTherm Mineral M system, Sto-Rotofix mechanical fixings, Stolit render and StoColor Dryonic X-Black façade paint have all been used on the impressive new Dean Hotel which has been built in Galway.

“This was a complex project and we worked very closely with the architect to develop the ideal insulation solution for the hotel,” explains Sto Account Manager Gareth Hastings. “Dean Hotels each have a very unique appearance, and Dublinbased Architects, Lawrence and Long wanted to continue that approach and create a striking chessboard-influenced design which included various changes of planes and surfaces."

"Our StoTherm Mineral external wall insulation system was ideal for this, especially when combined with our StoColor Dryonic X-Black façade paint which allowed them to use a very dark coloured render. This wouldn’t have been possible with many other insulation and render combinations.”

The StoTherm Mineral M system is based on durable mineral-fibre insulation boards which combine excellent thermal performance with unrivalled fire protection and a high degree of sound insulation. They can also be installed without the need for additional expansion joints, which greatly enhanced the hotel’s chessboard design.

The insulation boards were installed onto both the lightweight steel frame and cement particle board substrates that were used in the construction of the hotel. The installation was completed using Sto’s unique Sto-Rotofix mechanical fixings to create a drained cavity, and a façade finish that could withstand the high wind loadings imposed by the hotel’s coastal location. These fixings enable the insulation boards to be adjusted after installation to accommodate any surface irregularities, and this contributed greatly to the smooth and uninterrupted external surfaces which were essential to the hotel’s design.

The project was completed with the addition of Stolit K1.5 render, which offers extremely low water absorption, plus a high elasticity characteristic that ensures exceptional resistance to mechanical movement.

The surface was then coated with StoColor Dryonic X-Black – a specialist façade paint, with a microtextured surface that encourages any moisture that falls onto the façade to run off rapidly. This prevents the growth of the micro-organisms that cause unsightly stains by ensuring that the façade dries quickly.

The paint also incorporates Sto’s innovative X-Black technology which uses special near-infrared black pigments to reflect much of the solar energy in the near-infrared spectrum. This prevents the buildup of the solar heat which might otherwise cause cracking of the render below, and permits the use of the dark-coloured render which was an essential element of this Dean Hotel design. www.sto.co.uk

New Schöck Sconnex For Major Passivhaus Social Housing Scheme

Minimising thermal bridging at the wall connection to the floor, or floor slab, is an ongoing problem with reinforced concrete construction, However, a dedicated new solution – the Sconnex type W – has been developed by Schöck and is being installed in what is currently the largest Passivhaus accredited social housing scheme in the North of England.

The ‘Greenhaus’ nine-storey development of 96 affordable homes in Chapel Street, Salford, is part of the 50- acre Salford Central regeneration and the result of a collaboration between The English Cities Fund (ECF) – a national development partnership between Muse, Legal & General and Homes England – contractor Eric Wright Construction and Salix Homes.

The scheme focuses on sustainability and is designed to reduce the energy consumption of the building. With Passivhaus, energy savings can be as much as 90% compared with the average building stock and more than 75% compared to average new builds.

Thermal losses are greatly reduced - The unique Schöck Sconnex type W makes a major contribution to achieving this initiative and is a product based on derivative technology from Schöck. Sconnex utilises the company’s long-standing expertise in structural thermal breaks for balconies and other cantilever constructions and applies it to reinforced concrete wall and support applications.

By installing the Sconnex product in Chapel Street, thermal losses are greatly reduced and the surface temperature in the rooms increases to considerably more than the critical dew point temperature. Heating costs are lower, a pleasant room climate is created and the linear thermal transmittance (Psi) of the connected reinforced concrete wall is reduced by as much as 80%. This outstanding insulation performance is combined with an excellent load-bearing capacity.

It transmits very high pressure, tensile and shear forces, in the longitudinal and transverse direction, made possible by the use of a pressure buffer consisting of ultra-high performance fibre reinforced concrete. Compressive strength levels in excess of 175 N/mm2 are achieved, with extremely good flexural strength. A further important benefit is the significant cost reduction involved when compared to installing insulation beneath the floor slab.

Eric Wright and Salix have key roles - Greenhaus forms part of ECF’s wider £1bn, 50-acre, Salford Central masterplan transforming former surface car parks and derelict buildings into a vibrant and diverse community. John Hartnett, managing director at Eric Wright Construction, comments: “We are proud to be supporting not only a green future for Salford, with the delivery of high efficiency buildings built to Passivhaus standards, but also supporting Eric Wright’s own journey to net zero carbon. These new homes will deliver valuable social housing in partnership with Salix Homes.“

Sue Sutton, chief executive at Salix Homes, also adds: “Chapel Street enjoys an incredibly rich history and the innovative Greenhaus development marks the next exciting chapter for this historic part of Salford. At a time when affordable housing is in such short supply, we’re very proud to work alongside our partners to deliver these high quality, sustainable, eco-homes of the future, and we look forward to seeing this ambitious development take shape on the Salford skyline.”

For further information on the new Sconnex type W product contact Schöck on 01865 290 890; or download the brochure at www.schoeck.com

Cupaclad Provides The Natural Solution For New Coastal Home

CUPA PIZARRAS’ CUPACLAD 101 Logic was recently installed as part of a striking new-build project, located in Aberystwyth, Wales. The natural slate cladding was chosen because it could complement the coastal surroundings as well as provide outstanding resistance to the harsh weather conditions. The site was purchased by homeowners, David and Shirley Harries who looked to extend the pre-existing bungalow but after finding significant issues with its structure, opted instead to erect a new build on the same plot.

“We really wanted a home that utilised a range of materials to create a modern look as opposed to building a glass palace that could look too ostentatious in the rugged seafront location,” said David. The couple approached Arwyn George from George + Tomos Architects who put together a design, which included CUPA PIZARRAS’ natural slate cladding system, CUPACLAD 101.

“The CUPACLAD system allowed the new home to blend into the surrounding cliffs beautifully,” said Arwyn. “In addition, I had to consider the high winds that the project would be exposed to and select something that would have the appropriate durability.” High quality natural slate is a very resistant material – its deterioration is unnoticeable to the human eye, meaning its colour does not change across its 100 year lifespan, even in the coldest environments.

Natural slate also has a permanent sheen, unlike other roofing materials which can decrease up to eight times superior. “We really loved the proposal,” the couple commented. “The slate would blend seamlessly with the local landscape – both the cliffs behind the property as well as some of the other houses in the area, which also utilise natural slate. What’s more, the material is sympathetic to its environment.”

CUPACLAD is constructed using specially selected slates, which are dark in colour, creating a bold and dramatic look, particularly when utilised alongside lighter materials such as glass, timber and render. CUPACLAD 101 Logic is made up of 40x20cm slates installed horizontally using fixing systems that are completely invisible once installed to avoid impacting the design.

As with the rest of the CUPACLAD 101 series, it is BBA certified, verifying that it has an incredibly low level of water absorption, test results show a value between 0.16 and 0.17%. This ensures that the material is not susceptible to frosting or hypothermal ageing.

Furthermore, the BBA certificate demonstrates the slate is very resistant to high winds, fire and impacts. Rhys Ben Wright from RBW Carpentry was then selected to install the slate system. A process made easier, thanks to the quality of the slate, with pre-drilled holes and self-drilling fixings.

What’s more, natural slate has a number of environmental benefits. According to research carried out by the University of Glasgow, it produces a limited amount of atmospheric carbon (1KgCO2/metre2 over its lifetime) and has a low water and energy consumption rate. Furthermore, by sourcing natural slate from CUPA PIZARRAS, a carbon neutral company, David and Shirley’s cladding solution is verifiably sustainable.

Once the project was completed, David and Shirley were over the moon with their new home: “The cladding fits the landscape seamlessly, which is due to the properties of the slate, as well as Arwyn’s design. He was able to shape the building in such a way that it really fits with the outlines of the hilly surroundings.

“We were concerned that some of the slates would be lost in recent strong winds; however, the cladding remained completely intact. We would definitely recommend CUPACLAD.” CUPA PIZARRAS’ slate is exclusively distributed by Taylor Maxwell to the UK market. www.cupapizarras.com/uk/rainscreen-cladding

Sto Render System Specified For New Passivhaus Development

Sto’s StoRend Flex render system was specified for use on a high-profile development of luxurious and sustainable homes built in Norfolk. Located five miles from Norwich city centre, the six new Octagon Park homes are designed to meet the requirements of the Passivhaus Plus standard, while delivering outstanding quality and a high level of sustainability.

“In order to minimise energy consumption, the Passivhaus Plus standard sets out very specific criteria for construction, insulation and ventilation systems,” explains Sto’s head of sales, Ashley Wainwright. “This meant that the materials specified had to satisfy extremely demanding performance standards, and the StoRend Flex render system was certainly able to achieve this.”

The Octagon Park development was created by JR Cozens Wiley Ltd, and the properties feature a timber-frame construction, which had a direct bearing on the specification of the StoRend Flex system. “An alternative render system was originally considered for the project,” adds Ashley.

“However, this would have required the inclusion of many vertical and horizontal movement joints at every door and window aperture. Fortunately, these weren’t necessary with the Sto system, so it was ideal for this purpose as it helped simplify both the design and construction processes while still

delivering the performance and high level of finish required.”

The StoRend Flex synthetic render system provides a highly flexible, rugged and crack-resistant exterior render finish which was in-keeping with the highquality nature of the Octagon Park development. The render itself was applied to Sto’s own StoVentec render carrier boards, which were fixed to the timber frames of the buildings.

Being made from recycled glass granulate, the StoVentec render carrier boards are dimensionally stable, so thermal movement is minimized and the need for movement joints can be reduced, and often eliminated completely.

Widely regarded as an industry benchmark solution, StoVentec board has been specifically developed for use with Sto render products. “The boards can be installed quickly and easily and can be cut without the need for power tools,” comments Sebastian Slomkowski of Passivhausapproved S.I.R.S. Ltd of Norwich who installed the Sto materials.

“They can also weigh up to 50% less than other render boards which makes them easy to handle and install.” The addition of StoArmat Classic Plus, a cement-free, acrylic resin-based reinforcing coat – which is up to 15 times more flexible than traditional cement-based reinforcing coats when embedded with Sto Glass Fibre strengthening mesh - provided exceptional levels of crack resistance.

The system was then finished with a stippled StoSilco render and StoColor Dryonic façade paint that promotes fast and efficient drainage of water, allowing the surface to dry rapidly and greatly inhibiting the appearance of algae, fungus and unsightly marks. www.sto.co.uk

CURVED MARMOX MULTIBOARDS FACILITATE CYLINDRICAL FAÇADE FOR KENT PROPERTY

The developer building a private property in the beautiful Kent town of Westerham, near Sevenoaks, has made full use of the flexible version from the Marmox Multiboard range in creating a two storey, drum-shaped elevation that is being finished using a proprietary render system.

While standard Marmox Multiboards are formed from rigid sheets of extruded polystyrene (XPS) faced on both sides with a layer of polymer modified concrete encapsulating glass fibre reinforcement, the Curved version features 2mm wide slices through 75% of their depth, at 20 mm intervals.

This enables the 1250 x 600mm boards to be bent down to radii as tight as 200mm if fixed

so that the slices close together. Even tighter radii can be achieved by folding the boards so that the ‘teeth’ open up.

They can either be fixed against a blockwork of other solid surface using a continuous coating of tile cement or secured to timber battens at 300mm centres using screws and the special Marmox washers. This flexibility makes Curved Multiboards ideal for creating archways, curving partitions and cubicles or even moulded tiled seats. www.marmox.co.uk

STO ACOUSTIC SYSTEM HELPS RESTORE HISTORIC LONDON ART GALLERY

The acoustic performance of a major London landmark building was upgraded using the StoSilent Distance acoustic system. Hayward Gallery at London’s Southbank Centre underwent a complete refurbishment, and the StoSilent Distance system helped create a new and dramatically improved acoustic environment for this worldrenowned art gallery.

The 66 pyramid-shaped skylights which originally featured on the building had become damaged over time, while internally, a series of impractical sound-absorbing baffles and a translucent suspended ceiling had been used below them. The aim was to remove the suspended ceiling, reclaim the original height of the gallery spaces, and allow more natural light to enter. The pyramid roof lights were reconstructed using modern materials, and this meant that reliable acoustic treatment needed to be fitted into the coffer spaces below them in order to create the required acoustic environment.

Unlike conventional acoustic treatments which use exposed grid and tile systems and offer limited design possibilities, the StoSilent Distance solution allows the creation of modern, clean, monolithic and seamless solutions, and can accommodate unusual design features such as the gallery ceiling and its pyramid-shaped skylights. StoSilent Distance was installed in the deep acoustic coffers which sit below each of the pyramid skylights. www.sto.co.uk

MAGPLY BOARDS SHEATH STRUCTURE TO STRATFORD’S SUGAR HOUSE ISLAND SCHOOL

The new Sugar House Island Primary School in Stratford, East London, is making full use of the strength and stability to Magply MgO boards which carry a full set of internationally recognised accreditations, including BDA certification and which are widely specified for their excellent fire performance. Magply offers a fire-safe and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional plywood or OSB products.

Additionally, the unique production process keeps the chloride content to just 0.01%, enhancing both stability and long-term durability. The different thickness of panels is also widely used as a substrate board for the direct application of proprietary render systems, as well as for flooring and flat or pitched roof build-ups. www.magply.co.uk

AFFORDABLE HOUSING GIVEN SUPERIOR VAPOUR BARRIER AND AIRTIGHTNESS SOLUTION

A series of 10 newly built affordable Council houses in Montrose, Scotland has been fitted with a highperforming variable-permeability vapour control layer from the A. Proctor Group. Procheck® Adapt is designed to protect the building fabric from the potential risks of condensation and act as an effective airtight barrier.

Contractor, Andrew Shepherd Construction, proposed the use of the Procheck Adapt available from the A. Proctor Group. Thanks to its unique design, the Procheck Adapt membrane offers variable permeability which adapts to changes in humidity levels and allows the structure to dry out in the summer and in sunny days during spring and autumn while protecting it from moisture overload in the winter. This is possible because the membrane adapts its vapour resistance to the environment i.e., vapour tight in the winter and more vapour open in the summer.

This ensures that the building fabric is protected from damaging moisture levels during cold, wet winter months, and allows the fabric to dry out effectively in warmer, drier months. Procheck Adapt has a translucent structure which eases fixing to structural frames and in combination with its integral tape allows for a fast installation time. Procheck Adapt is suitable for a variety of commercial and residential applications and provides airtightness to the structure as well as vapour control. www.proctorgroup.com

ROOFSHIELD® PROTECTION FOR LISTED BUILDING IN PAISLEY

A prominent town centre historic building in Paisley town centre which had fallen into disrepair is in the process of being restored with the help of Renfrewshire Council’s Townscape Heritage Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme. The property dates back to 1840 and is a grade B-listed stone-faced terraced building at 3 County Place with a slated roof and situated in a prominent location opposite Paisley Gilmour Street train station.

As part of the roof works, protection for the roof will include a new roofing membrane, new leadwork and the re-use of the original slates. All existing slates to the front elevation will be kept and used to maintain the appearance of the surrounding buildings with CUPA H3 slate fitted to the rear. All existing sarking to the roof will be replaced. In selecting a suitable membrane, Architect John Martin explains, “I chose Roofshield for the roof underlay because it is both air and vapour permeable and requires no additional ventilation to the roof. Roofshield is my preferred roofing membrane. It is strong and robust and meets all of the key criteria.”

The incorporation of Roofshield into a project can lead to savings in both labour and material costs due to no additional VCL being required. The high-performance air permeability of Roofshield means that the roof space will have similar air changes to that of a roof using traditional eaves/ ridge ventilation. The high performance of Roofshield, backed by two BBA Certificates, has been successfully used in preserving and protecting the fabric of a wide range of historic and listed buildings for 25 years. www.proctorgroup.com

FIREFLY™ APOLLO LITE CREATING HALF HOUR FIRE BARRIERS IN NEW RESEARCH BUILDING

A specialist contractor undertaking all of the fireproofing within a new medical research building in Surrey has been making use of two well proven, flexible fire barrier products from the TBA’s FIREFLY™ range, to provide 30 minutes protection within the majority of the ceiling voids throughout the four-storey structure. CLM Fireproofing has established a reputation as a leader in the fields of both passive fire protection and fire-stopping. CLM is employing Apollo Lite and the Collaroll product in tandem to protect the ceiling voids. The spaces which typically house pipework, power cables and air conditioning units above the suspended ceiling grid, are provided with 30 minutes integrity and insulation through the installation of the flexible Apollo Lite barrier.

The Apollo Lite 30/30 has been developed for use in vertical separation or compartmentation situations, offering both 30 minutes integrity and insulation, thereby exceeding the minimum requirements of the Building Regulations. It is widely specified to form fire barriers within roof voids in many different property types.The flexible woven material is easy to cut and fix and is chemically treated to improve its cooling properties, and therefore prevent temperatures rising in adjoining areas. The system has been fully tested to BS 476 Parts 6.7, 20 & 22 and is third party certified by IFCC. www.tbafirefly.com

Howe Green On The Right Track With Crossrail Contractor, DMC Contracts

As Europe’s largest current infrastructure project, spanning over 60 miles via 41 different stations, the Elizabeth line will transform rail transport for London, with annual expected passenger levels reaching 200 million. The landmark project has seen the construction of 42km of new tunnels and the development of 10 new stations, with 31 existing stations also undergoing extensive upgrades.

As part of the formation of the central line, which spans from Westbourne Park to Plumstead and Pudding Mill Lane, official Crossrail contractor and one of the UK’s leading fit-out contractors, DMC Contracts, has installed over 1,500 Howe Green Floor Access Covers throughout seven stations. This includes Whitechapel, Farringdon, Paddington, Bond Street, West Ealing, Ealing Broadway and Acton Mainline, where over the last five years DMC Contract’s team of engineers have also installed over 30,000 square metres of Terrazzo and Granazzo floor tiles.

Howe Green’s 7500 Series stainless steel Floor Access Covers have been installed throughout the ticket halls, walkways and main concourses of each station to provide engineers with secure and concealed access to under-floor services, whilst the tamper proof construction also prevents unauthorised access. This is due to the cover’s unique design, which features unobtrusive barrel cover lifting points that can only be accessed with specific lifting and securing keys. As only the securing bolt and barrel edge are visible, the covers provide the highest standards of security, without impacting on the overall design scheme or presenting a potential trip hazard.

Manufactured to BS 476: Part 22, the 7500 Series provides resistance to fire and smoke for up to two hours, providing the highest standards in safety, performance and compliance throughout all seven stations. With each floor access cover withstanding up to five tonne pneumatic tyre wheel loads, the 7500 Series was also supplied in a range of configurations, including singles, multiparts and ducts, to provide unobstructed access to rodding points and winch systems and electrical pits throughout all areas of the stations.

As the lifting blocks are anchored to the inner frame, the floor access covers can be handled easily and safely by contractors, reducing any potential disruption to passenger’s travel as the maintenance can be conducted quickly and safely. www.howegreen.com

Sto Provides Attractive Brick Slip Facade Solution To New Riverside Buildings In Canterbury

Sto’s ability to provide a bespoke package of external wall insulation, brick slips and render has been highlighted by a new £115 million mixed-use development in Kent. The company’s StoTherm Mineral M insulation system, StoCleyer B brick slips and StoSilco external render have been installed on five buildings which make up the latest phases of the Riverside development in Canterbury.

The BBA-certified StoTherm Mineral external wall insulation system uses durable mineral-fibre insulation boards, classified A1 reaction to fire, to provide outstanding thermal and fire performance. Some of the new buildings feature the BBA-certified StoCleyer B mineral brick slips in a multi-blend red colour, chosen to create a striking contrast with the various façade finishes used elsewhere on the commercial units. StoCleyer B brick slips are manufactured from tough synthetic render with 90% mineral content, and feature an attractive individual pattern and texture to give a natural brick appearance. Compatible with all Sto façade systems, with both standard and bespoke size and colour options available, they allow architects to match buildings to their surroundings, or design a genuinely bespoke finish, without compromising on external wall insulation.

Other sections of the development were finished with StoSilco external render, enabling the architects for this project to extend their colour-palette and create a striking contrast to the areas finished with the StoCleyer B brick slips. www.sto.co.uk

Hauraton Channels Drain Blue Badge Scheme Parking Bays At RHS Wisley

The first phase of The Welcome Building and surrounding landscape at Royal Horticultural Society gardens, Wisley, Surrey has transformed the experience for visitors to the gardens with buildings including a spacious arrivals hall, café, shop, plant centre and a 100 seat restaurant. There are now three large car/coach parks including Blue Badge scheme easy access bays for visitors in park two.

One hundred metres of Hauraton RECYFIX® PRO 100 channel system, fitted with FIBRETEC® C250, 9mm HEELSAFE slot gratings, was used by groundwork subcontractor GPB Construction Ltd to drain the asphalted Blue Badge parking bays for visitors. The channels were installed between the bays and the path leading to the entrance of the new arrivals hall.

The material, PA-GF used to make the FIBRETEC® grating, was especially developed by Hauraton; the tough, UV resistant, fibre reinforced moulding offers high stability and huge strength for its weight. Complying with loading category Class C250 (BSEN 1433) the grating can easily take the weight of cars and commercial delivery vehicles.

The design is a real innovation as its non-corrosive material provides a visually appealing surface finish that retains its black colour. The FIBRETEC® C250 HEELSAFE slot grating was specifically designed by Hauraton R&D engineers to enhance the flow of water into the channel. The slots are super smooth, elliptical openings with the moulded bars having slightly raised triangular bosses along their outside edges.

As well as providing an elegant appearance, the feature ensures surface water is directed into the slots. This configuration also helps eliminate any cross-flow over the grating.

The RECYFIX® PRO 100 channel component is made from 100% recycled polypropylene (PP). The six sizes offered are 160mm wide and range in height from 75mm to 250mm with the FIBRETEC® grating factory fitted on all models. As the largest unit is only 5.8kg, the channelling is easily handled and quickly installed on site. www.drainage-projects.co.uk

High Praise For SureSet Walkways At Chapel Riverside

Located on the River Itchen, sits Chapel Riverside, where a new housing development started in 2017. There are six phases to include 457 new homes which will be built near to the Ocean Cruise terminal. The project was approved by Southampton City Council and is now into the third phase comprising of 132 apartments, all with allocated parking and premium specifications that run alongside the Solent Sea Wall.

Southampton City Council had a clear vision of what they wanted to achieve and were determined to have the whole walkway paved in the most economic, cost effective, durable and aesthetically pleasing product possible. They appointed multi award–winning specialist housebuilder and brownfield developer Inland Homes as main contractor. SureSet were contacted by Kain Dear, the Senior Site Manager from Inland Homes, to attend a pre contract meeting. SureSet were able to provide the requested large resin bound sample panels with various colour options so they could view the paving against the Sea Wall and determine the best appearance.

The SureSet team was also able to discuss the benefits of the products, installation methods and advise on the suitability that the resin bound paving would offer to the walkways. One of the seven key areas in this project was to re-shape the landscapes of the city.

To achieve a consistent aesthetic across the phases of Chapel Riverside Developments, the same materials were to be used throughout.

The colour chosen was 6mm Butterscotch, a permeable resin bound paving material from SureSet's Natural Aggregate range, installed at an 18mm depth. This product was laid to create a desirable waterfront, and due to the smooth nature of the compacted surface, it is suitable for the moderate to high foot traffic and accessible pathways. The area was built above ground level for the apartments and accompanying landscapes to improve ground floor access and create new walkways around the buildings to ensure everyone can enjoy the views.

The work Inland Homes have achieved will further promote investment in Southampton. The 360m2 resin bound paving installation was completed over two days, the asphalt and concrete areas were quality checked and dip tested prior to installation. SureSet ensure that their bases are prepared to safeguard longevity. These pathways were no exception and using a primer and crack reduction membrane over the concrete areas will minimise movement cracks.

A sleek stainless steel edging, supplied by Dural Ltd, was carefully secured to the areas as advised on the plans provided. SureSet's installation comprised various methods. The first was to level out the resin bound material by batch - this was efficiently compacted by using mechanical power floating, and the edges were finished by more traditional hand floating. The SureSet paving looks clean and smooth having the added benefits being low maintenance and permeable. Chapel Riverside has a mix of building types and has been transformed with a new public piazza with cafes, restaurants and shops as well as spaces for retained and enhanced marine industry and activities.

The resin bound walkways are surrounded by green lawns, and seating areas to soak up the views. The 300m stretch of river flood defences, and the reconstruction of a new underground surface water storage tank for Southern Water also makes for an economical build.

Chapel Riverside in Southampton is already a home for many residents and is seen to be a new destination for modern waterside living, and an integral grand plan for economic growth and development within Southampton City. For more information on SureSet's commercial installations, please email sales@sureset.co.uk

MARMOX THERMOBLOCKS CUTTING CARBON FOR SOCIAL HOUSING RESIDENTS

Work is well underway on the first phase of an affordable housing project for Somerset West and Taunton Council, where the use of Marmox Thermoblocks was put forward by specialist developer, Equans Regeneration which is leading the work on the site in Taunton. Phase A of North Taunton Woolaway Project will see the construction of 47 new one, two and three bedroom properties with energy saving and the reduction of environmental impact both being given full consideration.

The issue of thermal bridging, in particular, is being addressed through the decision to utilise the highly insulating Thermoblocks around the perimeter of the ground floor slabs. With over 200 homes to be built in the next few years, the total number of Thermoblocks required will run into the thousands. Each length of Thermoblock is comprised of ultra-high performance XPS insulation, encapsulating miniature epoxy concrete columns, while the top and bottom are covered by alkali resistant glass-fibre mesh, retaining a surface of fibre reinforced polymer concrete to facilitate bonding.

The concrete columns have a very low conductivity, so do not present thermal bridges themselves and when coupled with the highly insulating XPS insulation core, a combined thermal conductivity of 0.47W/mK is achieved. Crucially, being able to employ a defined, very low thermal transmittance – derived by thermal modelling or measurement – offers a far more advantageous result than adopting the ‘default’ figure offered in SAP, which can often result in non-compliance under Part L. www.marmox.co.uk

FIREFLY™ APOLLO LITE CREATING HALF HOUR FIRE BARRIERS IN NEW RESEARCH BUILDING

A specialist contractor undertaking all of the fireproofing within a new medical research building in Surrey has been making use of two well proven, flexible fire barrier products from the TBA’s FIREFLY™ range, to provide 30 minutes protection within the majority of the ceiling voids throughout the four-storey structure. CLM Fireproofing has established a reputation as a leader in the fields of both passive fire protection and fire-stopping. CLM is employing Apollo Lite and the Collaroll product in tandem to protect the ceiling voids. The spaces which typically house pipework, power cables and air conditioning units above the suspended ceiling grid, are provided with 30 minutes integrity and insulation through the installation of the flexible Apollo Lite barrier.

The Apollo Lite 30/30 has been developed for use in vertical separation or compartmentation situations, offering both 30 minutes integrity and insulation, thereby exceeding the minimum requirements of the Building Regulations. It is widely specified to form fire barriers within roof voids in many different property types.The flexible woven material is easy to cut and fix and is chemically treated to improve its cooling properties, and therefore prevent temperatures rising in adjoining areas. The system has been fully tested to BS 476 Parts 6.7, 20 & 22 and is third party certified by IFCC. www.tbafirefly.com

Yeoman Rainguard Crowning Glory On High End Development

Property developers Golden Eye Group, augmented their latest residential development with a high-end exterior finish incorporating a rainwater system from Yeoman Rainguard. With a mantra of “a quality finish that will stand the test of time” Golden Eye ensured that quality was reflected not only internally but for all parts of the external building envelope too.

As part of the function and design criteria of the house façade, Yeoman Rainguard were able to provide a sophisticated, quality rainwater system to fulfil technical and aesthetic requirements. To dovetail into the contemporary look, Yeoman Rainguard SL Aluminium gutters and downpipes were chosen. The 75 x 75 mm flush-fit SL Aluminium downpipes provided a modern clean line coupled with 125 x 100 mm MOG gutter. Aluminium Fascia and Soffits from Yeoman Rainguard’s new Squareline range were fitted to complement the sleek lines.

All were finished in a smooth RAL 7022 Grey colour to perfectly match the shade of the windows and doors. The aluminium products give a hardwearing, maintenance free lifecycle of 30 years or more, making this recyclable material both an ecologically and economically sound choice. The rainwater system was installed by Yeoman Rainguard’s experienced installer, ensuring the perfect finish. www.rainguard.co.uk

Crittall Windows – I’ll Drink To That!

A Cornish brewery has moved into renovated premises that give visitors a whole new experience of watching the creation of their favourite beers with Crittall Windows playing a crucial role in the new concept.

Verdant Brewery took over a rundown warehouse on a Penryn industrial estate and, in addition to installing the brewing vats, created 400 sq. metres for staff offices and a space for public use, dubbed the Taproom.

The new interior was created around a steelframed installation with Crittall Corporate W20 windows providing a light and contemporary area where visitors can have a beer and something to eat while enjoying views through to the working brewery, a paramount consideration of the client.

In addition, The Taproom provides a mezzanine balcony overlooking an area that can also be used for entertainment from a DJ or with live music. The design was produced by locallybased architects Zelah Studio.

Said architect James Collins; “We used the W20 system as it allowed great flexibility and a quality industrial look that the client wanted. Large expanses of the glazing allowed us to create views of the brewery from all spaces.” www.crittall-windows.co.uk

Desirable New Build Reflects Quality With The Choice Of Rainwater System

When it came to self-building a dream home, a couple from Yorkshire wanted the finish to the exterior of their home to convey both modern style and quality with a nod to traditional building materials.

The plot of land was bought with an original property standing on it which was demolished to make way for the tasteful 4-bedroom family residence. Their new home was designed to be in keeping with the more mature properties in the surrounding area but also to include elements that offered a greener more modern way of living with consideration given to energy efficient, durable and ecologically sound building materials. When looking at a rainwater system they wanted all these elements to be reflected together in the choice of gutters and downpipes.

After receiving samples from Yeoman Rainguard they choose the XL Aluminium range which, being manufactured from 3 mm thick extruded aluminium, gave the confidence of a robust and long-lasting system.

Style is also exuded from the XL aluminium range with the 125 x 100 mm MOG XL gutters being installed along side the 75 x 75 mm square downpipes. Finished in an attractive black powder coating which not offers a stunning heritage look but gives the gutters and downpipes protection against the elements leading to 30 years plus, maintenance free, lifecycle.

Yeoman Rainguard manufacturing facilities helped to offer additional benefits to the build by being able to specially design external angles and stop end units in one piece. The units reduce the amount of jointing required therefore limiting the possibility of points of leakage in the gutter run.

A bespoke aluminium Fascia/Soffit was also designed for the new build again adding to the immaculate finish and maintenance free advantages of the property’s exterior. For more information on Yeoman Rainguards rainwater systems for new build or renovation projects get in touch on 0113 279 5854 or go to www.rainguard.co.uk

Sto Creates Protective Shell For Olympia London’s New Energy Centre

A new energy centre in the heart of west London has been given a dramatic and eye-catching appearance thanks to the use of a portfolio of façade products provided by Sto. The company’s StoVentec R rainscreen system, with StoVentec A render carrier boards and bespoke 3-dimensional StoDeco profiles have been used to focus attention on the new Olympia London’s Energy Centre, which forms part of a major urban regeneration project in the capital.

Designed by SPPARC, the Olympia London’s Energy Centre building sits on a central London site. “It’s also an industrial building, and the architectural design needed to reflect both this, and the location, yet still deliver a striking appearance which made a strong statement,” comments Sto account manager, Jo Ebel.

The StoVentec stainless steel and aluminium subconstruction was installed onto the substrate of the new multi-storey building by specialist contractor, Craft Interior Ltd, before some 1400 2 m of StoVentec A render carrier boards were fixed to this sub-construction. StoVentec render carrier boards are ideally suited to rainscreen applications and consisting of 96% recycled glass, provide an environmentally-friendly solution.

Stolit K1.5 acrylic render was then applied to the boards to provide a rugged and resilient exterior finish. To complete the façade design, custom-made StoDeco profiles were fixed to the StoVentec system to create a unique, 3-dimensional shell-motif pattern for the elevation of the new energy centre.

Some sections of the building incorporate ventilation louvres, and the shell-shaped profiles had to extend over these areas to maintain the façade design. Said Jo Ebel, “We couldn’t obstruct the air flow through the louvres by installing the StoVentec boards over them, so we worked closely with the louvre manufacturer to design a series of aluminium plates which replicate the shell shapes.”

Available in both standard and individual designs, StoDeco profiles are manufactured from Verolith – a unique, lightweight and easily workable, natural material which is then machined to create custom shapes or decorative panels. They allow the architect to exercise their creativity by adding individual detailing to a façade. Because they are lightweight, this makes them easy to handle on-site, and they have excellent resistance to damage and the effects of weathering.

A final surface coat of StoColor Maxicryl façade paint was applied to the render finish and StoDeco profiles in a dark StoColor 37100. This acrylate paint combines a high covering power and reliable colour-fastness, ensuring that the building will retain its attractive appearance well into the future. www.sto.co.uk

A Historic Slate Installation Fit For Leaders Of The World At The G7 Summit

CUPA PIZARRAS has been specified across a major development and refurbishment at Tregenna Castle. The company’s products were selected for their ability to endure extreme local weather and provide an exceptionally long lifespan. Delivering spectacular views of the St Ives coastline, the Castle Approach Estate is a new collection of lodges built in the grounds of the historic Tregenna Castle Resort.

Looking to complete the exclusive lodges, roofing contractor, Summit Roofing Solutions utilised a number of CUPA PIZARRAS’ products. Likewise, the project team also chose to use the company’s natural slate to complete a renovation of Tregenna Castle’s original roof. The lodges and castle are subject to difficult coastal conditions, including extreme winds and sea spray.

As such, the project team needed access to roofing solutions that could deliver long-lasting, durable performance. Likewise, given Tregenna Castle’s status as a Grade II listed property, the team had to ensure that any selected products were able to deliver a traditional aesthetic, whilst still providing modern performance. Fortunately, CUPA PIZARRAS natural slate was able to meet all the desired criteria.

Therefore, roofs on the lodges at Tregenna Estate exclusively used CUPA PIZARRAS’ 400mm x 200mm CUPA 12 natural slates, fixed using 100mm stainless steel hooks that were also produced and supplied by CUPA PIZARRAS.

Notably, Summit Roofing Solutions was able to install the natural slate as a closed mitred hip system. In doing so, the project team ensured that all slates lined up perfectly with one another, which is only possible on account of the products’ uniform size and quality.

This was particularly important on the lodges, where sections of roof were stepped down in certain locations and visible from ground level. Speaking on the project at Tregenna Estate, Adam Palmer, Company Owner of Summit Roofing Solutions commented: “Upon receiving the brief, we recognized that CUPA PIZARRAS’ solutions could help us to meet all key project goals. What’s more, the company helped us to overcome logistical challenges.”

Following project completion, the Tregenna Estate played host to key stakeholders attending the G7 Summit in Cornwall, including the Prime Minister and US President Joe Biden. In anticipation of the event, enhanced security provisions were put in place on the site, which made the logistical side of the project more difficult.

Thankfully, through its extensive distribution network, CUPA PIZARRAS was able to devise a well-considered delivery and logistics plan to ensure that supplies could reach the project team at critical times. CUPA 12 was chosen for this prestigious project as it is a high quality dark grey slate with a smooth finish.

With a life span of more than one hundred years and very little maintenance required, natural slate is a durable, weatherproof product, un-matched by artificial alternatives. CUPA 12 has also received approval from Snowdonia National Park as a Welsh Slate alternative and has been certified by BRE Global as A+ for its quality, transparency, and sustainability credentials. www.cupapizarras.com/uk/