A Through Wall Approach to Offsite Construction

Manufacturers are constantly bringing to the market new components to help contribute to modern methods of construction. With extensive experience in creating innovative façade options in this field, Wetherby Building Systems Ltd has teamed up with other industry leading manufacturers to introduce TotalWall. 

Wetherby, Frameclad, Kemwell Fire and ROCKWOOL have joined forces to offer this full through wall system for the building envelope, suitable for a variety of markets, including modular/offsite construction.

The collaboration offers a combination of expertise in external wall insulation systems, light gauge steel frame, passive fire protection building products and non-combustible insulation. The TotalWall system includes all components in one unique wall system, from the internal plasterboard to the decorative finish and everything in between.

The structural component of light gauge steel frame from Frameclad is manufactured to the highest standards of strength and durability, with the benefit of taking the clients plans and turning them into bespoke steel frames to create their own modular units.

The TotalWall system also incorporates non-combustible ROCKWOOL Stone Wool insulation and Kemwell WeatherKem Fibre Cement Board, then finished with a Wetherby Thin Coat Render System that can be applied on site to finish off the façade.

Wetherby Thin-Coat Render finishes are lightweight and flexible in nature, making them the ideal application onto off-site construction frames, where movement is likely. They also have a wide range of finishes and colour options available to achieve any design aspirations.

The system benefits from being the only ‘through wall’ system on the market to undergo a 2-hour fire test in both directions (from inside to out & outside to in), with temperatures in the furnace reaching over 1100°C. This thorough structural testing is approved to BS EN 1365-1:2012 offering piece of mind to the specifiers, clients and occupants.

The steel frame and external wall system is also approved by the 60-year BOPAS assurance scheme, which means the system has a minimum life expectancy of 60 years for durability and maintenance.

For further information on the new TotalWall system, or any other products from Wetherby Building Systems, visit the website or call
01942 717100.

www.wbs-ltd.co.uk

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Brick Slip systems and the elephant in the room

Brick slip systems offer a raft of advantages over traditional bricks for the modular manufacturer but there has long been an elephant in the room and that has been cost.

Modular manufacturers live in the realm of new solutions and are very used to adopting new ideas and embracing materials and processes that enable them to deliver their end product.  Indeed, the modular sector is one of the primary drivers of growth for the brick slip sector, but there has never really been a clear answer as to why it usually costs more to dress a building in brick slips rather than traditional bricks.
Pilgrim set out with the specific mission of developing brick slip systems from scratch that were designed to meet the needs of the modular construction sector. The criteria were that the systems had to be simple to deploy, flexible enough to be installed either in-factory or on-site and on a range of different substructures, and crucially the systems needed to offer a financial benefit.

A1 Fire Classification
The first of Pilgrim’s brick slip systems to hit the market in 2019 was the A1 fire rated system, BrickShield which utilises a simple fibre cement backing board with channels for the brick slips. This system can be fixed directly to the substrate or combined with a helping hand system to create a ventilated façade. It has already been adopted as a favourite system for modular projects across both public and residential sectors and is one of the few brick slip systems that can address the “elephant in the room” question; not only is it simpler and quicker than traditional bricks, it’s also cheaper.

Insulated Brick Slips
The second of Pilgrim’s brick slip systems to make an impact is ThermClad, a system built around XPS insulation boards with pre-cut brick slip channels and available in a range of thicknesses. The ThermClad system provides an insulated brick façade in one incredibly simple package and when compared to the cost of insulation plus traditional bricks, is significantly more cost effective.

Supply chain disruption?
Compared to traditional clay bricks, brick slips use less energy to manufacture and are less bulky to ship. This means they are less affected by the current dramatic price increases and supply chain problems that are playing out across Europe at the moment. Pilgrim’s core business is manufacturing brick slips, both hand-made heritage styles and modern klinker types which are distributed across Europe and used by several of the UK’s leading system suppliers.  There is currently no shortage in supply and none foreseen for the coming year.

Contact Pilgrim Bricks & Tiles on info@pilgrimbricksandtiles.com, 01634 757191 or CLICK HERE to visit the website.

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CLT solutions – A. Proctor Group

CLT (Cross laminated timber) is growing in popularity and can offer many advantages, as a sustainable energy efficient building method.
It has been used in many construction projects, predominantly within the commercial sector such as schools and hospitals.

CLT is an engineered timber product, produced in a controlled factory environment from sustainably sourced timber.  It is formed of kiln-dried spruce or pine boards which are laid on top of each other at 90° (three, five, seven or nine layers depending on structural requirements), and then coated with a layer of adhesive and subjected to immense hydraulic pressure to create large, stiff, dimensionally stable panels.  Often referred to as ‘Super Plywood’, CLT offers high strength and the structural simplicity needed for cost-effective buildings, as well as a lighter environmental footprint than concrete or steel. It also provides numerous other benefits, including quicker installation, reduced waste, improved thermal performance and design versatility.

The STA have recognised this and produced a comprehensive document in March 2017 – The STA Advice Note 14, Robustness of CLT structures. This document provides good practice guidance for the design, detailing and installation of CLT building structures.  A critical element to their successful use is to ensure good moisture management, as whilst the system is robust, poor installation can let the design down.

Fig 1 (produced by STA) shows how a CLT structure is built up with the correct installation of insulation, on the outside of the frame.  The CLT should always be on the warm side of the insulation to avoid unnecessary moisture fluctuations, which also brings the added benefit of mitigating any potential cold bridging issues, as they are adequately catered for with the external envelope of continuous insulation. It is preferable for this insulation to be moisture open to allow the wall to breathe and reduce the risk of built-up moisture within the envelope. The cavity provides extra protection throughout the life of the building. The STA have produced further guidance in January this year (Laminate/Mass timber structures – Durability by Design Technical Note 23). This note concludes with some best practice advice which includes the following – Ensure the external wall make up allows for vapour diffusion from the interior to exterior vented spaces (BS5250 standard to be referenced and followed in a design).  Air leakage control membranes and sealants checked to avoid moisture vapour traps.  Thermal Insulation should be placed on the exterior side of the laminated mass timber panels.

BS 5250 gives good guidance in the moisture management of CLT structures. This advice incorporates many of the above principles and the placement of membranes to reduce the risk of damaging moisture issues.

The A. Proctor Group provide a self-adhered, vapour permeable, air tight “breather membrane” that can be installed either behind or in front of the insulation.  This decision can be made dependent upon the project location, and works programme for follow on trades. In some circumstances it may be appropriate to utilise the membrane in both locations. Once Wraptite® is applied to the CLT on the outside, the envelope is immediately protected from water ingress such as rain during the construction, which may be beneficial if the insulation is not to be installed immediately.  The unique properties of Wraptite also provide the airtight line on the external side of the CLT panels offering, long term protection, and less risk of damages to the airtight layer from internal finishes. The high vapour permeability of the Wraptite provides the “breathing wall” which will help reduce any potential moisture build up that may have happened during the build process and wet trades.

As Wraptite is vapour permeable, it is moisture neutral and protects the building from unwanted moisture build up once it is occupied, such as heating/everyday occupier activities.  It’s characteristics therefore keep the envelope free from the risks of interstitial condensation.

 

Once the insulation is installed, depending on its type , it may be advisable to install a second layer, this time on the cold face of (outside) the insulation, to avoid moisture pick up through the insulation and potential loss of thermal performance. This can include the use of a reflective material to further enhance the thermal performance of the structure, this time with APG vapour permeable Reflectashield® TF 0.81.

For any moisture concerns or questions, The A. Proctor Group have years of experience  across all areas of the building envelope, such as pitched roofs, walls and floors.  Our team of technical experts at Head Office and external Regional Technical Sales Managers are all very well educated in the companies HAMM (Heat Air Moisture Movement) principles to ensure an effective balance is reached, ensuring a healthy building envelope.

For more details visit our website where you can find details on all APG solutions along with links to our informative range of webinars.

www.proctorgroup.com

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Envirotile – the lightweight, sustainable roof tile

Envirotile is a revolutionary roof tile system with a unique fixing system which is fully compliant with BS 5534 and it can be installed to a minimum of 12.5° pitch.

It is significantly lighter than other tiles making Envirotile extremely suitable for use on modular and timber frame constructions. The lightweight tile aids the build by minimalising differential movement in such structures.
Plus due to the unique fitting system developed by roofers, installation is simple and easy, saving time compared to traditional tiles, and offers a complete dry fix system with no mess cutting.

The sustainable choice
Envirotile is manufactured from 75% recycled product and is fully recyclable at end of life.
It is backed by GreenSpec which is the foremost ‘Green Building’ resource in the UK. Independent of companies and trade bodies and launched in 2003 with government funding, GreenSpec promotes sustainable building products, materials and construction techniques.

Finishes
Envirotile is available in two finish effect options – our original tile with a textured finish and our latest addition of the slate-effect finish – both are aesthetically pleasing in all aspects.
The textured finish tile is available in Terracotta, Brown, Slate Grey and Anthracite Black, and the slate-effect tile in Terracotta, Brown, Slate Grey and Anthracite Grey.
Plus ridge, hip and end caps all available to ensure the roof is completed to the same green credentials.

Designed to perform
Envirotile has undertaken rigorous testing with many professional bodies so that we can ensure that it is more than fit-for-purpose and will withstand all the British weather will throw at it. So much so that we guarantee it for 40 years.
They are also fully guaranteed to perform against severe UK wind loads in any designated zonal area within the UK and we offer a free replacement service for dislodged roof tiles caused by gale force winds up to 65mph (subject to our Terms & Conditions).

• Cost saving, sustainable roof tile
• BBA certified
• Conforms to BS 5534:2014
•  Greenspec Endorsed
•  80% lighter than concrete tiles for easier handling and safety
•  Only 12 tiles per sq. m
•  Choice of standard and slate effect across 5 colours to match most roof types
•  No harmful dust created during the cutting process
•  Proven and tested at a low degree pitch of 12.5° against wind driven rain
• Weather tested to 147mph wind loads
• Improved grip surface
• Virtually unbreakable
• Anti-fungal properties
• Low maintenance
• UK manufactured
• Ridge products available

At less than 8 kilos per m², Envirotile is the lightest synthetic roof tile making it the ultimate choice within lightweight roofing, yet is virtually unbreakable.

www.eurocell.co.uk

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SPOTLIGHT ON  SIKAFLEX®

SPOTLIGHT ON  SIKAFLEX® -545 HIGH GRAB, LOW EMISSION ADHESIVE FOR FAST HANDLING

Global building product manufacturer, Sika, has seen the continued growth of the company in the modular construction sector, as Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) continues to move towards the heart of the construction industry in the UK. With a wide portfolio of products ideal for modular constructors, and a wealth of experience in many manufacturing applications, such as Automotive, Transportation, Marine, Appliances and Renewable Energy, Sika can help modular builders and specifiers choose the most suitable solutions for their needs.

The use of construction adhesives for structural and non-structural bonding on construction sites is gaining more importance due to new materials, new methods of building and increasing time pressure. Examples range from the simple bonding of wooden laths, plaster or insulation boards, to the bonding of facade elements and structural reinforcement.

A big advantage of bonding over traditional mechanical fixings with screws or nails is the larger fixing area, which consequently offers a far more homogeneous and uniform distribution of any stress caused in manufacture, movement to site, or in-life service. Sika can advise whether the substrates to be joined are suitable for a bonded solution.

Spotlight on Sikaflex® -545
Sikaflex®-545 is a one-component elastic assembly adhesive based on Sika Silane Terminated Polymer (STP) technology. It is a high initial grab adhesive and meets most demanding EHS standards, with very low emissions, as it is free of isocyanate, solvent, PVC and phthalate. It can be applied easily by a manual dispenser. Nevertheless, the high green strength of Sikaflex®-545 allows a powerful initial load capacity directly after application, outperforming most available silane modified products.

Sikaflex®-545 adheres well to a wide variety of substrates without the need for special pre-treatments. It can be used on substrates such as timber, glass, metals, metal primers and paint coatings (two-part systems), ceramic materials and plastics.

Sikaflex®-545 is already used by some modular constructors, due to its well-balanced formulation with respect to the initial green strength versus efficient material output in terms of extrudability.
Compared to mechanical fixing, elastic adhesives are the ideal solution and provide the best interface between the materials as it compensates for stress coming from thermal movement. In addition, sound dampening can be improved, and corrosion is no longer an issue.

“We have a comprehensive product portfolio of hybrid products for industrial sealing and bonding applications,” said Simon Griffiths, Head of Sales UK – Modular Construction. “Sika’s global expertise allows us to offer the right product for our customers’ specific needs – from silicones and polyurethanes to hybrid technology. We go beyond the supply of materials, and have the technical expertise to assist in the development, testing, and design, through to supporting implementation in production lines – often curating custom offerings. Our approach is to define ways to reduce build-time, simplify bill of materials, and increase quality as well as life expectancy, whether it be timber or steel framed construction”.

Sika has leveraged its huge product range to come up with some great solutions, to improve rigidity, reduce noise transfer, improve fire performance, reduce cycle time, lower costs, enhance sustainability, boost quality and provide a one-stop-shop from basement to roof.

 

Watch this video to view the impressive high initial grab capabilities:

CLICK HERE to view our dedicated webpage:

For more information contact: Simon Griffiths Mobile: +44 (0) 7803 667225 email griffiths.simon@uk.sika.com

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LOBSTER STRENGTH

Concrete 3D printed in patterns inspired by the internal structure of lobster shells.

 

Bio-inspired: How lobsters can help make stronger 3D printed concrete

New research shows that patterns inspired by lobster shells can make 3D printed concrete stronger, to support more complex and creative architectural structures.

Digital manufacturing technologies like 3D concrete printing (3DCP) have immense potential to save time, effort and material in construction.

They also promise to push the boundaries of architectural innovation, yet technical challenges remain in making 3D printed concrete strong enough for use in more free-form structures.

 

CLICK TO WATCH THE VIDEO

 

In a new experimental study, researchers at RMIT University looked to the natural strength of lobster shells to design special 3D printing patterns.

Their bio-mimicking spiral patterns improved the overall durability of the 3D printed concrete, as well as enabling the strength to be precisely directed for structural support where needed.

When the team combined the twisting patterns with a specialised concrete mix enhanced with steel fibres, the resulting material was stronger than traditionally-made concrete.

Lead researcher Dr Jonathan Tran said 3D printing and additive manufacturing opened up opportunities in construction for boosting both efficiency and creativity.

“3D concrete printing technology has real potential to revolutionise the construction industry, and our aim is to bring that transformation closer,” said Tran, a senior lecturer in structured materials and design at RMIT.

“Our study explores how different printing patterns affect the structural integrity of 3D printed concrete, and for the first time reveals the benefits of a bio-inspired approach in 3DCP.

“We know that natural materials like lobster exoskeletons have evolved into high-performance structures over millions of years, so by mimicking their key advantages we can follow where nature has already innovated.”

 

3D printing for construction

The automation of concrete construction is set to transform how we build, with construction the next frontier in the automation and data-driven revolution known as industry 4.0.

A 3D concrete printer builds houses or makes structural components by depositing the material layer-by-layer, unlike the traditional approach of casting concrete in a mould.

With the latest technology, a house can be 3D printed in just 24 hours for about half the cost, while construction on the world’s first 3D printed community began in 2019 in Mexico.

The emerging industry is already supporting architectural and engineering innovation, such as a 3D printed office building in Dubai, a nature-mimicking concrete bridge in Madrid and The Netherlands’ sail-shaped “Europe Building”.

The research team in RMIT’s School of Engineering focuses on 3D printing concrete, exploring ways to enhance the finished product through different combinations of printing pattern design, material choices, modelling, design optimisation and reinforcement options.

 

Patterns for printing

The most conventional pattern used in 3D printing is unidirectional, where layers are laid down on top of each other in parallel lines.

The new study published in a special issue of 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing investigated the effect of different printing patterns on the strength of steel fibre-enhanced concrete.

Previous research by the RMIT team found that including 1-2% steel fibres in the concrete mix reduces defects and porosity, increasing strength. The fibres also help the concrete harden early without deformation, enabling higher structures to be built.

The team tested the impact of printing the concrete in helicoidal patterns (inspired by the internal structure of lobster shells), cross-ply and quasi-isotropic patterns (similar to those used for laminated composite structures and layer-by-layer deposited composites) and standard unidirectional patterns.

 

Supporting complex structures

 

The results showed strength improvement from each of the patterns, compared with unidirectional printing, but Tran said the spiral patterns hold the most promise for supporting complex 3D printed concrete structures.

“As lobster shells are naturally strong and naturally curved, we know this could help us deliver stronger concrete shapes like arches and flowing or twisted structures,” he said.

“This work is in early stages so we need further research to test how the concrete performs on a wider range of parameters, but our initial experimental results show we are on the right track.”

Further studies will be supported through a new large-scale mobile concrete 3D printer recently acquired by RMIT – making it the first research institution in the southern hemisphere to commission a machine of this kind. The 5×5m robotic printer will be used by the team to research the 3D printing of houses, buildings and large structural components.

The team will also use the machine to explore the potential for 3D printing with concrete made with recycled waste materials such as soft plastic aggregate.

The work is connected to a new project with industry partners Replas and SR Engineering, focusing on sound-dampening walls made from post-consumer recycled soft plastics and concrete, which was recently supported with an Australian Government Innovations Connections grant.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Introducing our brand new 2021 Connectors for Light Gauge Steel catalogue

Simpson Strong-Tie are all set to provide the steel frame construction industry with performance tested connectors and fixings with the release of our brand new 2021 Connectors for Light Gauge Steel catalogue.

Created for suppliers, architects, engineers, erectors, and contractors alike, the new catalogue makes it easy to specify project-appropriate LGS connector solutions, with robust product pages including detailed features and benefits, technical data and installation advice, as well as associated fasteners and tools.
Light gauge steel (LGS) enables quick construction without the need for heavy tools or equipment. LGS systems offer a range of construction related benefits, with speed of construction, cost effectiveness and safety being the most notable.
Whether you are a manufacturer of LGS load-bearing structures or a manufacturer of light gauge steel facades, Simpson Strong-Tie can provide a suitable connection solution. From steel joist connectors to oversail movement connectors, bridge connectors and ties, to chemical and mechanical anchor systems, our comprehensive range of products will ensure you make the right connection, when you need it.

 

The new catalogue features the ever popular TJC Jack Truss and Rafter Connector, an on-site adjustable angle bracket for connecting angled LGS sections, and the HTT5 Tension Ties, as well as the heavy-duty Quik Drive collated fastening system. Also showcased are some brand new product innovations, including:
•  The LGSSC Splicing Clip, designed to connect the over–sail LGS studs to the primary structure in continuous walling installations.
•  The RCKW Parapet Wall Bracket, designed to resist an over-turning moment at the base of exterior knee-walls and parapets as well as interior partial height walls.
•  X1214 screws have a #3 drill point capable of drilling through 5mm steel and suitable for 450 grade hardened steel.
•  X1224 screws have #5 drill point capable of drilling through 12.5mm steel and suitable for fixing to hot rolled steel sections.
“Our range of ergonomically designed connectors can assist on-site installation and ensure projects are completed on time and to your specification. Whether you need products or design, solving your structural problems is our passion, and the 2021 LGS connectors catalogue makes it easy to find information and project solutions quickly.” Explains Sales Manager @MartinKeithLister.
“You also have the reassurance of knowing that you are specifying a tested product, whether it be a hold down, anchored to the foundation, or an adjustable angle bracket connecting to the light gauge steel, our dedicated technical support team are available daily to help you select your connector and the fixing solution.”
As the market grows for steel framing solutions and buildings built in an offsite environment, our research continues at head office into our upcoming range of Ready products that will revolutionise the future of light gauge steel.
To learn more about how Simpson Strong-Tie can help you develop your light gauge steel project call us on 01827 255 600.
The new catalogue is available now, or you can download the catalogue from the Literature Library on the website.

www.strongtie.co.uk

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BESPOKE AND VERSATILE: Sure-Rend panels

Keeping pace with the demands for faster installation

#constructionindustry #sustainable #architects #localauthorities #contractors #developers #innovation #buildingtechnology #mmc #onsiteinstallation #newconstructionproducts

 

Building construction requirements are changing and traditional methods are finding it hard to keep pace with the demands for faster installation without compromising quality and technical skills in order to deliver the necessary speed, conformity and cost.
To meet these needs without compromise Sure-Rend have developed a range of products.
Supplied in a range of finishes, Brick Slip, Render, Timber, Aluminum and Architectural Profiles can be manufactured and delivered ready for fast on-site installation.  Window bands, preformed corners and special features can all be built into the panel design at the manufacturing stage.
Timber or steel can be used in the design of the supporting framework and support rails or special adjustable fixing brackets used to mount the panels on to the frames.
Suitable for both new-build and re-fit projects the lightweight panels are designed to be hung on the structure or existing building rather than relying on extra foundations.
Sure-Rend’s quality product solutions have been successfully serving construction for some time.  The extraneous impact that the first half of 2020 has brought to bear on the sector has made the product quality and speed of turnaround that Sure-Rend can offer an even more vital component in helping designers and contractors as we enter the second half of 2020 and forge ahead with recovery.

www.sure-rend.com

 

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A RALLY CRY FOR CONSTRUCTION

The construction industry and our ability to Build Build Build is key to the UK’s economic recovery

 

#constructionindustry #sustainable #architects #localauthorities #contractors #developers #innovation #buildingtechnology #mmc #insulation #flat roofs #adhesives #retrofit @SFSintec

 

Innovative Fasteners & Heat Induction Technologies Enable Faster Flat Roofing Installations

The construction industry and our ability to ‘Build Build Build’ is key to the UK’s economic recovery. Martyn Holloway, Business Development Manager – Flat Roof at SFS (pictured), discusses how innovative fastening systems can lead to fast and reliable single ply flat roofing installations.

COVID-19 has put the world on pause – and the construction industry in particular has been hit hard, with 680,000 employees on furlough at one point.
Of course, the government recognises this cannot continue. The rhetoric is ‘Build Build Build’ to get the construction industry, and the UK economy, on the road to recovery. It is vital though that we can turn this rally cry into practical measures for those on the front line of construction – our contractors and installers.

Solving an age-old challenge – Speed of installation
Site productivity is one element that is more important than ever. This is needed specifically to help with offset delays following the introduction of site operating procedures as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, with autumn and winter coming, there are the more traditional delays such as extreme weather conditions to contend with.
Then there’s the challenge of the shortage of skilled labour, which has been exacerbated by a heavily furloughed workforce. This, combined with an ageing workforce, means there is a real need to train new site operatives.

Amendments to existing building regulations, guidance documents and operating procedures are adding complexity to the industry which in turn is increasing time pressure on site. Then, there’s the intricacies of installation itself that installers must deal with.

Tapered insulation challenges
One such example is ‘cut to fall’ insulation systems. Growing in popularity for new build projects, these can be particularly challenging for installers.
Also known as tapered roof insulation, the aim of this system is simply to provide drainage when the roof deck itself does not provide adequate falls. This is achieved by increasing the thickness of the insulation to provide the slope and run off for the rainwater.

However, when using a conventional mechanical fixing solution to install the insulation, there is typically a myriad of different fastener lengths needed to allow for the change in insulation thickness. In turn, this increases the complexity and time on the job for roofers.

Concrete deck challenges
If ‘cut to fall’ insulation is being secured to a concrete deck, this can also slow down installation. Using conventional flat roofing fasteners may require pilot holes up to 100mm deep in order to rationalise fastener lengths, significantly adding to the drilling time.

Adhesive system complications
One of the biggest challenges for installers is if they are using an adhesive system to secure the membrane and insulation layers. Weather conditions on the day can severely hamper progress, and the design is limited by a specified maximum wind load. Additional time is required to prime the deck and adhere each separate layer, including the Air and Vapour Control Layer (AVCL), insulation and membrane.

Adhesive systems also rely heavily on the skill of the installer to apply the correct weight of adhesive bonding agent per square metre for each of the AVCL, insulation, membrane and other layers required. If not secured correctly, the membrane will need to be reinstalled, adding unnecessary time onto the job.

Retrofit risks and difficulties
Another area where installers can hit snags is on retrofit roofing installations. Here, roofers will often face existing layers of membrane and insulation. These are typically overlaid with new membrane and insulation layers. However, using adhesive to attach these new layers and by not securing existing and aging layers, this risks potential faliure of the roof.
Additionally, new or existing cut to fall systems or existing tapered screed layers will lead to a variation in the build up at any single point. Installing traditional mechanical fastened systems therefore requires installers to use a variety of fastener lengths across the roof, adding significant time and complexity to the install.

Making Haste with Mechanical Fixings
These challenges can all be overcome with innovative mechanical fixings, which can securely fix every layer of the roof, provide reliable performance and long life warranties.
Compared with adhesive systems, mechanical fastening systems are less weather dependent, and can be used in all exposure zones. For refurbishment and new build concrete decks, pull out testing will assist in calculating the appropriate fastener design load. When used in conjunction with the project wind load calculation, the correct fixing pattern can be determined to ensure a safe and secure installation.

 

For tapered insulation challenges on concrete decks, installers can use the innovative TIA system from SFS. This height adjustable insulation fastener solution is specifically designed to self-adjust to the insulation thickness, as the fastener engages with the telescopic sleeve and the result is a considerably simplified install.
Drilling time is greatly reduced using the TIA system too, as it requires just 35mm deep pilot holes for all settings. When compared to the conventional practice of drilling up to 100mm deep pilot holes for tapered schemes on concrete decks, this typically equates to 60% less drilling.

When the heat is on, use heat induction
A final area where contractors can speed up jobs is by using heat induction welding technology, such as the patented isoweld® system from SFS, to install singly ply membranes. Since its launch, more than 15 million square metres of single ply membrane has been successfully installed.

This technique uses electric heat induction to weld the membrane to a specially coated metal stress plate located underneath. The result is an extremely secure fix without penetrating the waterproof layer.

Each plate only requires three seconds to weld, and the SFS isoweld® system is also easy to set up and calibrate. Suitable with both PIR, EPS and mineral wool insulation types, the heat induction technology can be used in conjunction with PVC, TPO and EPDM single ply membranes.

The membrane fasteners are installed in field fix patterns in comparison to the traditional lap fixing and therefore significantly fewer fasteners are required. Typically up to 50% fewer fasteners are required and the isoweld® field-fix system allows installers to use the widest membranes available which substantially reduces the extent of seam-welding required.

The TIA fastener system can be used in conjunction with isoweld® to offer a faster and more cost-efficient install for concrete decks.

A secure roof, a secure future
Embracing new innovation opportunities such as TIA and isoweld® is critical if we are to recover quickly. By incorporating new roofing technologies, site productivity increases, roofers can be more efficient, and profitability goes up.

SFS is doing all it can to help installers and contractors during these difficult times not just to secure roofs, but to secure futures as well. From the provision of office and site support, through to maintaining the supply of product from our factories, we will continue to go that extra mile and provide the industry with assistance where required, including efficiency savings through product innovation.

www.sfsintec.co.uk

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A very modern solution

(MMC) to play key role in helping construction adapt to the NEW NORMAL

#constructionindustry #sustainable #architects #localauthorities #contractors #developers #innovation #buildingtechnology #mmc #cladding #newnormal #offsite #VUCA @Aquarian_Cladd

With the coronavirus pandemic affecting almost every industry, modern methods of construction (MMC) will play a key role in helping construction adapt to the ‘new normal’. Paul Richards, MD of brick cladding systems supplier Aquarian Cladding Systems, has seen the rise of MMC first-hand and explains why it will become even more important as the industry gets to grips with the ‘new normal.’

VUCA times                                                                                                                                                                                                                         (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity)  

Technology and the use of data are hailed as the solution for most industry sectors to become safer, more predictable, and more profitable in increasingly volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) times.
It could be argued that the construction industry has always experienced degrees of VUCA, but this time the case for the use of MMC as a solution is more compelling than ever, as it addresses the increasing number of challenges that we face.

Builders have always been under pressure to reduce construction costs and complete buildings on time. They must also consider the use of sustainable and thermally efficient materials. Having greater control over the construction process is vital and the controlled environment of offsite manufacturing or design and assembly of fewer components on site ticks most boxes.

MMC is not a ‘one size fits all’ solution and options vary from full turnkey, volumetric solutions to panellised or factory-assembled components – designed using the very latest visualisation and scheduling software technology. Key to the use of MMC is its ability not to compromise the appearance or performance of a building.

As brick facades seem more popular than ever in British architecture, so brick cladding systems are increasingly being used to give a building its traditional appearance and robust protection, with the advantage of being a modern method of construction.
We are experiencing greater demand than ever for our cladding solutions, as they offer all the benefits of an offsite solution but with the hybrid flexibility to be adapted on site too. Speed of delivery and installation, reduced build programmes and reduced prelim costs, including replacing scaffolding with mechanical access, are all major benefits of MMC.

Our brick cladding systems come in a wide choice of natural colours and finishes. Using brick slips formed from fired clay and pointed with natural mortar, a building will therefore still have a familiar, traditional appearance. Even tired looking buildings can benefit from a new lease of life, with negligible extra load and overall wall thickness.

 

 

Brick cladding systems are lightweight and versatile and therefore suitable for application either offsite or onsite. The reduced weight and support requirements mean reduced line loads, framing and foundations, with greater productivity and cost efficiency.
They are also more sustainable and will therefore reduce the environmental impact of conventional brickwork, due to the use of thin brick slips and less mortar. There is less material and embodied energy in production, fewer deliveries to site, reduced movement and storage on site, and less waste disposal.

Pedigree
Despite being classed as a modern method of construction, brick cladding systems are not quite as modern as many might think.
Our Gebrik system is a factory-produced, panelised alternative to conventional brickwork and is supplied in a kit of parts, including all components needed to create a brick façade. It has been produced since 1982 and so used across Europe for almost 40 years. Here in the UK, it has been used on buildings exposed to most extreme UK conditions including height, coastal conditions, and high pedestrian access.

Gebrik is fully tried, tested, and certified, and has been used on many award-winning projects throughout the UK and Europe. It’s BBA certified for application to most common substrates and has been successfully tested to CWCT test methods for weathertightness. It has also been fire tested on a number of occasions with different interfaces to BS8414 and on each occasion successfully met the BR135 ‘Pass’ criteria.

An ability to adapt
With Building Regulations changing across the UK, the only route to compliance for residential buildings above 18m is for the use of non-combustible, or limited combustible, i.e. A1 or A2, materials.

Our Mechslip and NaturAL-X brick cladding systems use brick ‘tiles’ with unique profiles to enable them to each be mechanically secured onto metal cladding support rails and subsequently pointed. Both systems have been tested to CWCT test methods for weathertightness and under EN13501, are classified as A1 so are suitable for use on buildings in excess of 18m (as well as those below).
For those wanting to minimise the risks associated with traditional construction, modern methods of construction such as brick cladding systems simply can’t be ignored.

Gebrik, Mechslip, NaturAL-X or Terreal have been used on many award-winning buildings across a wide range of sectors. Working with architects, contractors, developers and installation specialists, Aquarian’s team of cladding experts will provide the right solution, whatever the project.

www.aquariancladding.co.uk

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