Annotations
B-04-07 - PUR-aluminium window system (Fixed window)
Type: Fixed window
Materials: Rigid polyurethane (PUR) and aluminium
Opening: Non-opening (fixed)
Frame: Composite frame combining rigid polyurethane for insulation and aluminium for durability
Features: High thermal insulation, weather resistance, and low maintenance
Usage: Ideal for providing natural light while maintaining energy efficiency and structural integrity
B-09-02 - Wood-PUR-aluminium external door system (Outward opening side-hung door)
Type: Composite door system
Materials: Timber, rigid polyurethane (PUR), and aluminium
Opening: Outward opening, side-hung
Frame: Composite frame combining timber and rigid polyurethane for enhanced strength and insulation
Filling: Aluminium elements for durability and weather resistance
Features: High strength, excellent thermal insulation, and long-lasting performance
Popularity: Commonly used in England for its robust and efficient design
C-07-01 - The stainless steel support bracket is used to support masonry system. These brackets provide support to ensure the masonry system remains securely in place. Made from high-strength stainless steel, they are designed to bear significant loads and distribute the weight evenly. Proper installation of stainless steel support brackets is essential to maintain the structural integrity of the masonry system and prevent any potential sagging or displacement over time.
C-07-04 – Stainless steel ties are used to support masonry system and ensure stability. According to UK building regulations, metal ties should be made of stainless steel or non-ferrous materials and be embedded a minimum of 50mm into each leaf of the wall. The maximum horizontal spacing is 900mm, and the maximum vertical spacing is 450mm. Around openings, ties should be placed within 225mm of the opening and spaced no more than 300mm apart.
D-06-01 - Stainless Steel Support Bracket for Window System. The stainless steel support bracket is designed to securely hold the window within the opening, ensuring stability and structural integrity. Made from high-grade stainless steel, the bracket is resistant to corrosion and provides long-term durability. The design of the bracket and its fasteners must be verified by calculation to ensure they can withstand the loads imposed by the window and external forces such as wind pressure. Proper installation is crucial to maintain the alignment and functionality of the window system. The bracket should be fixed to the structural frame using appropriate anchors and screws, ensuring a secure and stable connection.
F-08-01 - Stainless steel screw anchor. The stainless steel screw anchor is a critical component used to secure various elements to the building's structure. Made from high-strength stainless steel, the anchor provides excellent resistance to corrosion and ensures long-term durability, even in harsh environmental conditions. The screw anchor must be verified by calculation to confirm it can handle the specific loads and stresses it will encounter, including shear and tensile forces. Proper installation involves drilling a precise hole in the substrate, inserting the anchor, and tightening it to the specified torque. This ensures a secure and reliable connection, maintaining the structural integrity and safety of the building.
G-02-01 – Window membrane around the windows and any connection of sheathing board to primary framework to be sealed with EPDM membrane. The window membrane is a crucial element for ensuring the airtight and watertight integrity of the building envelope around windows. This membrane, made from EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), is used to seal the connections between the window frame and the sheathing board, as well as any other junctions with the primary framework. For buildings over 18 metres high, the membrane must be a certified product achieving a minimum fire performance class of B-s3, d0, ensuring it meets stringent fire safety standards. For buildings below 18 metres, this classification is not regulated. The installation requires a minimum overlap of 75mm between the sheathing boards to ensure a continuous barrier against moisture and air infiltration. Additionally, a non-flammable primer should be applied to the surfaces before attaching the membrane to enhance adhesion and durability. Proper installation of the window membrane is essential to maintain the building's energy efficiency and protect against environmental elements.
G-02-02 - Breather membrane. The breather membrane is an essential component in the building envelope, designed to allow moisture to escape from the structure while preventing water ingress. This membrane must be installed with a minimum overlap of 100mm on horizontal joints and 150mm on vertical joints to ensure continuous protection. For buildings over 18 metres in height, the membrane must be a certified product achieving a minimum fire performance class of B-s3, d0, ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations. For buildings below 18 metres, this classification is not regulated. The breather membrane should be made from durable, weather-resistant materials to withstand environmental conditions and maintain its performance over time. Proper installation is crucial to ensure the membrane functions effectively, providing a breathable yet waterproof barrier that enhances the building's overall durability and energy efficiency.
G-02-03 - Vapour control layer membrane. The vapour control layer (VCL) membrane is a critical component in managing moisture within the building envelope. It is designed to prevent the passage of water vapour from the interior of the building into the wall and roof assemblies, thereby reducing the risk of condensation and associated damage. The membrane should have a minimum thickness of 500 gauge (125 microns) to ensure its effectiveness and durability. For buildings over 18 metres in height, the VCL must be a certified product achieving a minimum fire performance class of B-s3, d0, ensuring compliance with fire safety standards. For buildings below 18 metres, this classification is not regulated. Proper installation of the VCL involves sealing all joints and penetrations to create a continuous barrier, which is essential for maintaining the building's thermal efficiency and protecting the structural components from moisture-related issues.
G-02-04 - Cavity tray, lapped with a minimum 100mm overlap. The non-combustible cavity tray is a crucial component in building construction, designed to capture and redirect moisture that penetrates the outer face of the wall, preventing dampness from affecting the inner structure. These trays are typically made from materials that do not burn, such as stainless steel or other non-combustible composites, ensuring they meet fire safety standards. Proper installation of non-combustible cavity trays is essential for maintaining the integrity of the building, providing both moisture protection and enhanced fire safety.
G-02-05 - The waterproofing membrane is installed beneath the roofing sheets to provide an additional layer of protection against water infiltration. Made from high-quality, durable materials, this membrane ensures that any water penetrating the roofing sheets is effectively diverted away from the underlying structure. This enhances the overall waterproofing of the roof, contributing to the longevity and durability of the building. Proper installation of the waterproofing membrane is essential for maintaining the integrity of the roof and preventing water-related damage. For buildings over 18 metres in height, the waterproofing membrane must achieve a minimum fire performance classification of B-s3, d0 according to the European standard EN 13501-1. This classification ensures that the membrane has limited contribution to fire and produces no significant smoke or flaming droplets. For buildings below 18 metres, this specific fire performance classification is not regulated
G-04-01 - Mineral Wool Insulation Slab for External Cavity Application. The mineral wool insulation slab is designed for use in external cavity applications, providing excellent thermal and acoustic insulation. This certified product must achieve a fire rating of A2-s1, d0 or better for buildings over 18 metres in height, ensuring it has limited combustibility, produces minimal smoke, and no flaming droplets. For buildings below 18 metres, this specific fire performance classification is not regulated. The insulation slab should be tailored to fit the specified cavity dimensions, ensuring a snug and effective installation. It is recommended to use a product with a thermal conductivity (k-value) of ≤ 0.035 W/mK to ensure high thermal performance, contributing to the building's energy efficiency. Proper installation of the mineral wool insulation slab is crucial for maintaining the building's thermal envelope and enhancing overall comfort and safety.
G-05-01 - Blockwork system. The blockwork system is a fundamental component of the building's structural and thermal performance. It consists of concrete or clay blocks that are laid in a staggered pattern to form the walls. These blocks provide excellent load-bearing capacity and thermal mass, contributing to the building's stability and energy efficiency. For buildings over 18 metres in height, the blockwork system must comply with fire safety regulations, ensuring that the materials used have appropriate fire resistance ratings. The blocks should be laid with mortar joints, typically 10mm thick, to ensure a strong and durable bond. Additionally, the blockwork system should incorporate appropriate insulation and damp-proofing measures to prevent thermal bridging and moisture ingress. Proper installation and alignment of the blocks are crucial to maintaining the structural integrity and overall performance of the building.
G-06-01 - Rigid insulation for ground floor. The rigid insulation for the ground floor is designed to provide effective thermal insulation and enhance the energy efficiency of the building. This insulation is typically made from materials such as extruded polystyrene (XPS) or polyurethane (PUR), which offer high compressive strength and low thermal conductivity. The requirement for a minimum fire performance class of A2-s1, d0 does not apply to insulation and waterproofing materials used below ground level or up to 300mm above that level, allowing for the use of a wider range of materials in these areas. Proper installation of the rigid insulation involves placing the boards tightly together to minimize thermal bridging and ensure a continuous insulation layer. The insulation should be protected from moisture and mechanical damage during installation and throughout the building's lifespan. This helps maintain the building's thermal envelope and contributes to overall comfort and energy savings.
G-08-01 - Structural timber frame. The structural timber frame is constructed using factory-assembled panels, ensuring precision and quality control. The frame is made from sustainably sourced timber, treated to enhance durability and resistance to pests and decay. The main load-bearing elements include timber beams and studs. The dimensions of the timber studs typically range from 38mm x 89mm to 38mm x 140mm, depending on the structural requirements. The spacing between studs is generally 400mm to 600mm on center. The timber frame provides excellent structural integrity and is designed to meet UK building regulations for buildings under 18 metres in height.
G-08-02 - Structural sheathing board. The structural sheathing board is attached to the exterior of the timber frame, providing additional strength and rigidity. It also serves as a base for the external cladding. The sheathing board is typically made from oriented strand board (OSB) or plywood, with a minimum thickness of 9mm to 12mm, depending on the structural requirements. The boards are installed with a minimum overlap of 75mm at joints to ensure a continuous barrier against moisture and air infiltration. The sheathing board must comply with relevant fire safety standards, especially for buildings over 18 metres in height.
G-08-03 - Factory fitted service battens. Factory-fitted service battens are installed over the internal sheathing board at intervals not exceeding 600mm. These battens provide a space for running electrical wiring, plumbing, and other services without compromising the integrity of the insulation. The battens are typically made from timber, with dimensions ranging from 25mm x 50mm to 50mm x 50mm. Proper installation of service battens ensures that interior finishes can be easily applied and maintained, contributing to the overall efficiency and functionality of the building.
G-08-04 - Factory fitted cellulose insulation. The factory-fitted cellulose insulation is a certified product designed to provide excellent thermal performance and fire safety. It is fire-rated to A2-s1, d0 or better for buildings over 18 metres in height, ensuring limited combustibility, minimal smoke production, and no flaming droplets. The insulation is tailored to fit the specified cavity within the timber frame, enhancing the building's energy efficiency. The recommended thermal conductivity (k-value) is ≤ 0.040 W/mK, which ensures effective thermal insulation and contributes to the overall comfort and energy savings of the building. In addition to being factory-fitted, the cellulose insulation can also be installed on-site. This flexibility allows for adjustments and modifications during the construction process, ensuring that the insulation fits perfectly within the cavity and meets all performance requirements. On-site installation should follow the same standards and guidelines to maintain the insulation's effectiveness and safety.
H-01-01 - Triple glazed unit. The triple glazed unit is designed to provide superior thermal and acoustic insulation, enhancing the energy efficiency and comfort of the building. It consists of three panes of glass, typically with a thickness of 4mm each, separated by two air or gas-filled spaces. The overall thickness of the unit can vary, but common configurations include 28mm and 44mm units, depending on the specific performance requirements and framing system. The unit is sealed using a dual-seal system with silicone or other durable sealants to ensure long-term performance and prevent moisture ingress. The middle pane is often toughened to eliminate the risk of thermal breakage. The triple glazed unit can achieve a U-value as low as 0.5 W/m²K, significantly reducing heat loss compared to double glazing. Additionally, the unit can be filled with inert gases such as argon or krypton to further enhance its thermal performance. For buildings over 18 metres in height, the triple glazed unit must comply with fire safety regulations, achieving a minimum fire performance class of B-s3, d0. This ensures limited combustibility and minimal smoke production, contributing to the overall safety of the building.
I-01-01 – Aluminium panel (thickness 2mm). Rainscreen Cladding System. The aluminium panel, with a thickness of 2mm, is a key component of the rainscreen cladding system. This system is designed to provide an aesthetically pleasing and durable exterior finish while protecting the building from weather elements. The aluminium panels are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and offer excellent durability, making them ideal for both new constructions and refurbishments. The panels are typically installed with a ventilated cavity behind them, allowing air to circulate and moisture to escape, which helps prevent condensation and prolongs the lifespan of the building envelope. The aluminium panels are fixed to the building's structural frame using a system of brackets and rails, ensuring a secure and stable installation. For buildings over 18 metres in height, the aluminium panels and the entire rainscreen cladding system must comply with fire safety regulations, achieving a minimum fire performance class of A2-s1, d0. This ensures that the materials used have limited combustibility, produce minimal smoke, and do not generate flaming droplets, contributing to the overall safety of the building.
I-05-01 – Brick. Typical clay brick size: 215x102.5x65 mm. Types of brick bonding patterns: stretcher bond (this bonding pattern provides the most efficient spacing for brick ties). The lime cement mortar is flush with the brick, with a nominal joint thickness of 10 mm. Masonry clay brick is deadloaded at ground level.
J-02-01 - Aluminium sill (thickness 2mm). The aluminium window sill is designed to provide effective water runoff and protect the building facade. The sill is made from durable, powder-coated aluminium, ensuring resistance to weathering and corrosion. The minimum overhang from the external wall surface is 30mm or 40mm, depending on the wall material and applicable UK standards. This overhang helps to direct water away from the wall, preventing potential damage and maintaining the integrity of the building envelope.
J-03-01 - Aluminium reveal (thickness 2mm). The aluminium reveal is used to provide a clean and durable finish around window and door openings. When installed above windows, it must include drainage and ventilation holes with a diameter of at least 6 mm. These holes are essential for preventing moisture buildup and ensuring proper ventilation, which helps maintain the integrity of the structure and prevents potential water damage. Proper placement and sizing of these holes are crucial for effective moisture management.
K-01-04 – Extruded aluminium angle. The extruded aluminium angle is a versatile component used for securing façade elements in areas where standard system solutions are not applicable. Made from high-strength aluminium, this angle provides excellent durability and resistance to corrosion, ensuring long-term performance in various environmental conditions. The aluminium angle is typically used to create custom fixing points and support structures for cladding panels, trims, and other façade elements. The dimensions of the aluminium angle can vary depending on the specific requirements of the project, but common sizes include 25mm x 25mm, 50mm x 50mm, and 75mm x 75mm, with a thickness ranging from 2mm to 5mm. Proper installation involves securely fixing the angle to the building's structural frame using appropriate fasteners, ensuring a stable and reliable connection. The use of extruded aluminium angles allows for flexibility in design and installation, making it possible to address unique architectural details and ensure the integrity of the façade system.
K-03-02 – Folded aluminium angle. The folded aluminium angle is an essential component used to secure façade elements in areas where standard system solutions are not suitable. Fabricated from high-strength aluminium, this angle provides exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion, ensuring it performs well over time. It is typically utilized to create custom fixing points and support structures for cladding panels, trims, and other façade elements. The folding process allows for precise angles and custom shapes, making it ideal for unique architectural details. Proper installation involves securely attaching the folded aluminium angle to the building's structural frame with appropriate fasteners, ensuring a stable and reliable connection. The use of folded aluminium angles offers flexibility in design and installation, ensuring the façade system's integrity and aesthetic appeal.
L-01-01 - Internal wall finish. The internal finish involves using panels to create a smooth and even surface for the final decorative layer. Key considerations include moisture control, where a layer is installed to manage the amount of moist air passing through the building, reducing the risk of condensation and improving air tightness. Panels should be attached to the supporting structure using appropriate fasteners, ensuring all edges are properly supported, and installation should follow relevant standards. Joints between panels should be taped and filled to create a seamless finish, which can involve using tape for plastered finishes or specially designed edges for direct finishes. In areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, moisture-resistant panels should be used to prevent damage and ensure longevity. For buildings under 18 metres in height, standard panels are typically sufficient, as the stringent fire resistance requirements for taller buildings do not apply.
L-01-02 - Floor build up to architects' documentation. The floor build-up is designed to provide strength, stability, and comfort. The final floor finish can be hardwood, laminate, or carpet, depending on the design requirements and aesthetic preferences.
L-01-04 – Internal Sill. The internal sill, or windowsill, is an essential component installed at the base of a window opening. It provides a smooth and durable surface that enhances the aesthetic appeal of the interior while also serving functional purposes. The sill helps to protect the wall beneath the window from moisture and wear, and it can be used as a small shelf or ledge. Typically made from materials such as wood, stone, or composite, the internal sill should be securely fixed to the window frame and the surrounding wall structure. Proper installation ensures that the sill is level and well-integrated with the interior finishes, contributing to the overall appearance and functionality of the window area.
L-02-04 – Packers. Packers are essential components used to adjust and fill gaps during the installation of various building elements, such as windows, doors, and panels. These small, often plastic or metal, shims help ensure that the installed components are level, plumb, and securely positioned. By inserting packers into the gaps, installers can achieve precise alignment and support, preventing movement and ensuring a stable installation. Proper use of packers contributes to the overall integrity and performance of the building elements, ensuring they function correctly and maintain their intended appearance.
L-03-02 – Pavement build up to architects' documentation. The pavement is constructed using high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity. It is designed to withstand pedestrian and light vehicle traffic, providing a safe and stable surface. Specific requirements according to UK standards include:
Drainage: Proper drainage systems must be integrated to prevent water accumulation and potential damage. This includes ensuring that the pavement has adequate slope and drainage channels to direct water away from the surface.
Edge Restraints: The pavement must include edge restraints to maintain the integrity of the structure and prevent movement of the paving units.
L-03-04 – Rainwater Pipe (RWP). The vertical rainwater pipe (RWP) is installed to ensure efficient water drainage from the roof and other surfaces. Typically, the RWP is positioned in the area of the movement joint in the masonry to conceal the joint, enhancing the aesthetic appearance of the building. The RWP is made from durable materials, designed to withstand the external environment and provide long-lasting performance. Proper installation and positioning of the RWP are crucial for maintaining the structural integrity and visual appeal of the masonry facade.
L-03-09 – Canopy. A canopy is a covering or structure that provides shelter or decoration, often used over entrances, windows, or outdoor areas. In this specific project, the term refers to a brise soleil, which is an architectural feature designed to reduce heat gain within a building by deflecting sunlight. The brise soleil is typically made from horizontal or vertical slats and is positioned to block direct sunlight while allowing natural light to enter, enhancing both the energy efficiency and comfort of the building.
M-01-01 – Horizontal open state cavity fire barrier. To suit denoted cavity subject to fire engineer confirming the EI requirements
M-01-02 - Horizontal closed state cavity fire barrier. To suit denoted cavity subject to fire engineer confirming the EI requirements
M-02-01 – Vertical closed state cavity fire barrier. To suit denoted cavity subject to fire engineer confirming the EI requirements
M-03-01 - Support bracket for cavity fire barrier. The support bracket for the cavity fire barrier is a crucial component designed to securely hold the fire barrier in place within the cavity wall. This bracket ensures that the fire barrier remains properly positioned, providing effective compartmentalization and preventing the spread of fire and smoke. Made from durable, non-combustible materials, the support bracket is engineered to withstand high temperatures and maintain its structural integrity during a fire. Proper installation of the support bracket is essential to ensure the fire barrier functions as intended, contributing to the overall fire safety of the building.
N-03-01 - Lime cement mortar flush with the brick with a nominal thickness of 10mm. The mortar should be the correct mix and used within two hours, unless it is retarded mortar; it should not be re-tempered if it has started to set. The mortar should include sulfate-resisting cement where required and be compatible with masonry and other components. Bricks and blocks should have a solid mortar bedding and fully filled perpends to reduce the risk of rain penetration and dampness in the wall. Where the mortar is raked out about 5-10mm from the wall face, there are certain exposure conditions where this should not be used.
Y-01-01 - Holes for drainage and ventilation. The recommended minimum diameter of perforations or gaps at the bottom of the ventilated cavities is 6mm.
Y-01-02 - Weep holes are small openings in masonry walls that allow moisture to escape from within the wall cavity, preventing water buildup and potential damage. These holes are essential for maintaining the integrity and longevity of the structure by ensuring proper drainage and ventilation. Placement Rule: Metal weep holes should be installed at maximum 900mm horizontal centres and 450mm above openings, with a minimum of two weep holes per opening. Proper placement is crucial to ensure effective moisture management and prevent water-related issues.
Z-01-01 - Concrete slab. The concrete slab is a fundamental structural element used in both ground-supported and suspended applications. It provides a solid, durable surface that supports loads and distributes them evenly across the foundation or supporting structure. The slab is typically reinforced with steel rebar or mesh to enhance its strength and prevent cracking. The thickness of the slab can vary depending on the specific requirements of the project, but it generally ranges from 100mm to 250mm. For ground-supported slabs, proper preparation of the subgrade is essential to ensure stability and prevent settlement. This includes compacting the soil and adding a layer of gravel or sand for drainage. For suspended slabs, formwork and temporary supports are used during the pouring and curing process to maintain the slab's shape and position. The concrete mix should be designed to achieve the required strength and durability, taking into account factors such as load-bearing capacity, exposure conditions, and environmental factors. Proper curing of the concrete is crucial to achieve the desired performance and longevity of the slab.