Annotations
A-10-01 - Aluminium Balustrade System. The aluminium balustrade system is designed to provide safety and aesthetic appeal for balconies, terraces, and staircases. Made from high-strength aluminium, this system ensures long-term durability and resistance to corrosion, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. The balustrade system typically includes handrails, posts, and infill panels, which can be made from glass, metal, or other materials to suit the design requirements.
For safety, the minimum height of the balustrade from the floor level to the top of the handrail should be 1100mm for external balconies and terraces. This height helps to prevent accidental falls and ensures compliance with building regulations. The aluminium components can be powder-coated or anodised in various colours and finishes to match the architectural design of the building.
The system is designed for easy installation and minimal maintenance, with components that are prefabricated and assembled on-site. This allows for precise construction and quick installation, reducing overall project time. The aluminium balustrade system not only enhances the safety and functionality of the building but also contributes to its modern and sleek appearance.
B-01-02 - Wood-aluminium window system (Outward opening side-hung window). The wood-aluminium window system is designed to combine the natural aesthetic of wood with the durability and low maintenance of aluminium. This outward opening side-hung window offers excellent thermal and acoustic insulation, contributing to the overall energy efficiency and comfort of the building. The exterior aluminium cladding protects the wood from environmental factors, ensuring long-lasting performance and resistance to weathering, while the interior wooden frame adds warmth and elegance to the interior design.
The window system features high-quality hardware for smooth and reliable operation, ensuring secure and stable performance. The combination of wood and aluminium provides a versatile solution suitable for both traditional and modern architectural designs, enhancing the visual appeal and functionality of the building. Proper installation of the wood-aluminium window system is essential to achieve optimal performance and durability.
C-11-05 - Movement Joint. The movement joint is a critical component in render systems, designed to accommodate the natural expansion and contraction of building materials due to temperature changes and other environmental factors. This joint consists of a gap filled with a compressible filler and sealed with a weatherproof sealant, allowing the render to move without cracking or causing damage to the structure. Proper placement and installation of movement joints are essential to maintain the integrity and appearance of the render system
E-01-01 - Stainless steel anchor bolt. The stainless steel anchor bolt is a critical component used in various construction applications to provide secure and stable anchorage. These bolts are designed to offer exceptional strength and durability, ensuring reliable performance even under heavy loads. Made from high-quality stainless steel, they are highly resistant to corrosion and environmental factors, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Stainless steel anchor bolts are often used in conjunction with other structural elements to enhance the overall stability and integrity of the construction. Their versatility allows them to be utilized in a wide range of projects, from building facades to heavy machinery installations.
E-09-01 - Approved Mechanical Fixing (Plastic Mushroom Fixing for Insulation Slabs).
The approved plastic mushroom fixing is a lightweight and durable solution for securing insulation slabs to the building structure. Made from high-strength, corrosion-resistant plastic, these fixings are designed to provide a reliable hold while minimising thermal bridging. The plastic mushroom fixing is particularly suitable for use with lightweight insulation materials, such as EPS or mineral wool, where a non-metallic solution is preferred.
The fixing is installed by inserting it through the insulation slab and into the substrate (e.g., concrete, masonry, or metal). Once in place, the mushroom-shaped head expands to securely anchor the insulation, preventing movement or detachment over time. The number and spacing of fixings are calculated based on the insulation type, thickness, and specific project requirements. These fixings are essential for maintaining the integrity of the insulation layer, ensuring optimal thermal performance and long-term stability of the façade system. They are widely used in both new construction and retrofit projects, offering a cost-effective and efficient solution for insulation attachment.
E-09-02 - Approved Mechanical Fixing (Stainless Steel Mushroom Fixing for Insulation Slabs).
The approved stainless steel mushroom fixing is a robust and corrosion-resistant solution for securely attaching insulation slabs to the building structure. Made from high-quality stainless steel, these fixings are engineered to provide exceptional strength and durability, making them ideal for demanding applications or environments where exposure to moisture or harsh weather conditions is a concern.
The fixing is installed by drilling through the insulation slab and into the substrate (e.g., concrete, masonry, or metal). The stainless steel pin is then inserted and expanded or screwed into place, creating a secure and long-lasting attachment. The mushroom-shaped head ensures even pressure distribution, preventing damage to the insulation and maintaining its performance over time. The number and placement of fixings are determined by factors such as insulation type, thickness, and wind load requirements.
These fixings are particularly suitable for heavy-duty applications, such as high-rise buildings or façades exposed to extreme weather conditions. They provide a reliable solution for maintaining the integrity of the insulation layer, ensuring effective thermal performance and compliance with building regulations.
F-06-01 - Stainless steel anchor with nylon plug. The stainless steel anchor with nylon plug is designed for secure fastening in various construction applications. This anchor features a combination of a durable stainless steel body and a high-quality nylon plug, providing excellent resistance to corrosion and environmental factors. The nylon plug expands when the screw is inserted, ensuring a tight and secure fit in the drilled hole. This combination offers reliable performance and long-lasting stability, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
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-02-05 - 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-04-05 - Rigid insulation (for wall). The rigid insulation is designed for use in wall applications, providing excellent thermal and acoustic insulation. This insulation material must meet specific fire performance ratings, ensuring it is safe and effective for use in buildings. However, it is important to note that this rigid insulation cannot achieve the fire resistance requirements for buildings over 18 meters in height. For such high-rise buildings, the insulation must achieve a fire rating of A2-s1, d0 or better, which this product does not meet.
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.
H-02-01 - Double glazed unit (DGU-1). The double glazed unit is designed to provide enhanced thermal and acoustic insulation, improving the energy efficiency and comfort of the building. It consists of two panes of glass, separated by an air or gas-filled space. The overall thickness of the unit can vary, 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 double glazed unit can achieve a U-value significantly lower than single glazing, reducing heat loss and improving energy efficiency. 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 double 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-05-01 – Brick. Typical clay brick size: 215x102.5x65 mm. 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.
I-10-01 - Render Decorative Finish. The render decorative finish is applied to the exterior of buildings to provide a visually appealing and weather-resistant surface. This finish is typically made from a mixture of cement, sand, lime, and water, which can be coloured and textured to match the architectural design of the building. The render is applied in multiple layers, starting with a base coat to ensure adhesion and stability, followed by one or more top coats to achieve the desired appearance. The final layer can be smooth, textured, or patterned, depending on the aesthetic requirements. In addition to enhancing the building's appearance, the render finish also protects the underlying structure from environmental elements such as rain, wind, and UV radiation. For buildings over 18 metres in height, the render system must comply with fire safety regulations, ensuring that it does not contribute to the spread of fire. Proper application and maintenance of the render finish are essential to ensure its longevity and performance.
I-10-02 - Composite Mortar. Composite mortar is a versatile and durable material used in various construction applications, including rendering, masonry, and repair work. It is composed of a blend of cement, lime, sand, and additional additives to enhance its performance characteristics. This mortar offers excellent workability, adhesion, and strength, making it suitable for both structural and decorative purposes. The inclusion of lime improves flexibility and reduces the risk of cracking, while the additives can provide benefits such as increased water resistance and faster setting times. Composite mortar is ideal for creating smooth, even surfaces and can be coloured or textured to match the design requirements of the project. For buildings over 18 metres in height, the mortar must comply with fire safety regulations, ensuring it does not contribute to the spread of fire. Proper mixing and application are essential to achieve the desired performance and longevity of the composite mortar.
I-10-03 - Scrim Reinforcement. Scrim reinforcement is a crucial component used in rendering and plastering applications to enhance the strength and durability of the finish. It consists of a lightweight, open-weave fabric made from materials such as fibreglass or polyester. The scrim is embedded within the base coat of the render or plaster, providing additional tensile strength and preventing cracking. This reinforcement is particularly important in areas prone to movement or stress, such as around windows, doors, and other openings. Scrim reinforcement helps to distribute loads evenly across the surface, ensuring a smooth and stable finish. For buildings over 18 metres in height, the scrim must comply with fire safety regulations, ensuring it does not contribute to the spread of fire. Proper installation involves embedding the scrim into the wet base coat, ensuring it is fully covered and integrated into the render or plaster system.
I-10-04 - Corner Bead. The corner bead is an essential component used in rendering and plastering to create clean, sharp edges at the corners of walls and other surfaces. Made from materials such as galvanized steel, aluminium, or PVC, the corner bead provides durability and resistance to impact, ensuring long-lasting protection for the corners. It is installed at the junctions of two surfaces, such as the external corners of walls, to reinforce and protect these vulnerable areas from damage. The corner bead is embedded into the base coat of the render or plaster, ensuring it is securely fixed and fully covered. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the corners but also contributes to the overall structural integrity of the finish. For buildings over 18 metres in height, the corner bead must comply with fire safety regulations, ensuring it does not contribute to the spread of fire. Proper installation involves aligning the bead accurately and embedding it into the wet base coat, followed by the application of additional layers to achieve a smooth and seamless finish.
I-10-06 - Insulation adhesive (render system). The insulation adhesive is a crucial component in render systems, serving as the bonding layer between the wall (substrate) and the insulation material. This adhesive ensures a secure and stable attachment, preventing delamination and enhancing the overall performance of the insulation system. Made from high-quality materials, the adhesive provides excellent adhesion and durability, ensuring long-lasting performance even in challenging environmental conditions. Proper application of the insulation adhesive is essential to achieve an effective and reliable insulation layer, contributing to the building's energy efficiency and structural integrity.
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-04-01 - Aluminium coping. The aluminium coping is an essential element used to cap the tops of walls, parapets, and other vertical structures, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits. Made from high-quality aluminium, the coping is lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion and environmental factors. It serves to protect the underlying masonry or concrete from water ingress, thereby preventing potential damage and ensuring the longevity of the structure. Aluminium coping is available in various profiles and finishes, allowing for customization to match the architectural design of the building. Proper installation is key to ensuring that the coping effectively seals and protects the structure, while also enhancing its visual 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-01-03 - Ceiling build up. The ceiling build up refers to the layered construction of the ceiling system, designed to provide structural support, acoustic insulation, and aesthetic appeal. This build up typically includes various components such as structural framing, insulation materials, acoustic panels, and finishing layers. The specific configuration can vary depending on the performance requirements and design specifications of the building. The ceiling build up ensures that the ceiling system meets the necessary standards for safety, comfort, and visual integration with the overall interior design.
L-03-01 - Roof build up. The roof build-up refers to the layered construction of the roofing system, designed to provide structural support, thermal and acoustic insulation, and weather protection. This build-up typically includes several components such as the roof deck, vapor control layer, insulation materials, waterproof membrane, and finishing layer. Each layer plays a crucial role in ensuring the overall performance and durability of the roof.
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-03-05 - Balcony Floor Build Up. The balcony floor build up is designed to provide a durable, stable, and aesthetically pleasing surface for outdoor spaces. This build up typically includes multiple layers, each serving a specific function to ensure the overall performance and longevity of the balcony floor. The layers generally consist of a structural substrate, such as a concrete slab or steel decking, which provides the primary support and load-bearing capacity. On top of this substrate, a waterproofing membrane is applied to prevent water ingress and protect the underlying structure from moisture damage.
Above the waterproofing layer, insulation may be added to enhance thermal performance and improve comfort. The final layer is the surface finish, which can be made from various materials such as tiles, stone, or composite decking, chosen to match the design and aesthetic preferences. For buildings over 18 metres in height, the materials used in the balcony floor build up must comply with fire safety regulations, ensuring they do not contribute to the spread of fire. Proper installation and alignment of each layer are crucial to ensure the balcony floor's durability, safety, and visual appeal.
L-03-07 - Insect mesh. The insect mesh is an essential component designed to prevent insects and small pests from entering buildings while allowing for ventilation. Made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or fiberglass, the mesh is durable, corrosion-resistant, and can withstand various environmental conditions. The fine mesh weave ensures that even the smallest insects are kept out, contributing to a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment. In addition to its use in windows and doors, the insect mesh is also installed to prevent insects from penetrating the ventilated cavity of ventilated facades, ensuring the overall integrity and functionality of the building system. Proper installation is key to ensuring the mesh remains secure and functional over time.
L-04-02 - External wall finish (non-facade). The external wall finish refers to the treatment applied to walls that are not part of the primary facade, such as the interior side of a building's parapet. This finish is designed to enhance the appearance and protect the structural elements from environmental factors. Made from high-quality materials, the finish provides durability and resistance to weathering, ensuring long-lasting performance. The finish can include various techniques such as plastering, painting, or cladding, depending on the design requirements and aesthetic preferences. Proper application of the external wall finish is crucial to maintaining the integrity and appearance of the wall, contributing to the overall stability and protection of the structure.
N-01-01 - Silicone Sealant (for External Use). The silicone sealant for external use is a versatile and durable material designed to provide a flexible and watertight seal in various construction applications. This sealant is ideal for sealing joints, gaps, and seams on the building's exterior, such as around windows, doors, and façade elements. Made from high-quality silicone, it offers excellent adhesion to a wide range of substrates, including glass, metal, ceramic, and plastic. The silicone sealant is resistant to weathering, UV radiation, and extreme temperatures, ensuring long-lasting performance in outdoor environments. It remains flexible over time, accommodating movement and preventing cracks or leaks. Proper application involves cleaning and preparing the surfaces, applying the sealant evenly, and smoothing it to achieve a neat and effective seal.
N-02-01 - Polyethylene Foam Backing. The polyethylene foam backing is designed to be used in conjunction with silicone sealant, providing a reliable and flexible backing material for sealing joints and gaps. This foam backing, often referred to as a backer rod, helps to control the depth of the sealant, ensuring optimal performance and durability. Made from high-quality polyethylene, it is easy to install, providing a smooth and consistent surface for the application of silicone sealant. Proper use of polyethylene foam backing enhances the effectiveness of the sealant, ensuring a long-lasting and watertight seal in various construction applications.
N-03-01 - Flush Mortar. Flush mortar is used to create a smooth and even finish between masonry units, such as bricks or stones, in construction. This type of mortar is applied flush with the surface of the masonry, providing a clean and uniform appearance. Made from a mixture of cement, sand, and water, flush mortar offers good adhesion and durability. It is commonly used in both interior and exterior applications to enhance the aesthetic appeal and structural integrity of masonry work. Proper application involves ensuring the joints are fully filled and the surface is smoothed to achieve a neat and consistent finish.
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.
Z-01-02 - Concrete Column. The concrete column is a fundamental structural element used to support vertical loads in buildings and other structures. It provides a solid, durable support that transfers loads from the structure above to the foundation below. The column is typically reinforced with steel rebar or mesh to enhance its strength and prevent cracking. The dimensions of the column can vary depending on the specific requirements of the project, but it generally ranges from 300mm to 600mm in diameter or width. Proper formwork is essential during the pouring and curing process to maintain the column'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 column.
Z-01-03 - Concrete upstand. The concrete upstand is a key structural element used in various construction applications, providing a raised platform or barrier typically found at the edges of floors or roofs. It is designed to offer additional support and stability, preventing the lateral movement of materials and providing a defined boundary. Made from high-quality concrete, the upstand is reinforced with steel rebar or mesh to enhance its strength and durability. The dimensions and shape of the upstand can be tailored to meet specific project requirements, ensuring a precise fit and reliable performance.
Z-02-05 Steel Wind Post. The steel wind post is a structural element designed to provide additional support to non-load-bearing wall infill panels, ensuring they can withstand wind loads and other lateral forces. Made from high-strength steel, the wind post is securely anchored to the primary building structure, typically connecting to floor slabs or other load-bearing elements.
The primary function of the steel wind post is to transfer wind loads from the non-load-bearing wall panels to the main structural frame, preventing deformation or failure of the façade system. It is particularly important in areas with high wind exposure or for buildings with large, uninterrupted wall surfaces. The wind post is engineered to meet specific load-bearing requirements, with its size, thickness, and spacing determined by structural calculations based on wind load analysis and building regulations.
Installation involves precise alignment and secure fixing to the structural frame, ensuring stability and durability. The steel wind post is often integrated with the façade system during construction, providing a seamless and efficient solution for enhancing the structural integrity of the building envelope. Its robust design and corrosion-resistant properties ensure long-term performance, even in challenging environmental conditions.