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Pilkington Pyrostop Sheds Light on Residential Applications

Glazeguard S.W. Ltd has used its Triple-Lite Firefloor system incorporating Pilkington Pyrostop in a residential application in southwest London.

Glazeguard S.W. Ltd worked in conjunction with main contractor, Jeremy Fisher Building, which was completely renovating the three-storey terraced house in Fulham, London. The refurbishment project included the renovation of a basement living area incorporating a kitchen and living room, which desperately needed natural light due to lack of windows. The main consideration was that a single panel should be fitted without further supports, thus reducing light transmission.

Glazeguard specified the Triple-Lite Firefloor as it is an insulated single layer glass-to-glass butt-jointed system suitable for both domestic and commercial glass floor applications. It was particularly suitable for this residential project as it provides all the aesthetic qualities associated with glass floors, allowing natural light transmission and bright, airy spaces, while from a practical point of view it is robust,
strong and provides safe and secure environments.

The installation of the fire floor in this residential project involved bracing the existing timber floor of the conservatory with 'I' section steels at 1460mm centres. It was calculated that if the length of the panels were reduced, the width could be increased incorporating the existing steel within the structural fire resistant support package without further work to the existing beams.

Chris Davies of Glazeguard said of the project: 'Using the Triple-Lite Firefloor, we were able to meet the key specifications of the project, which were to create a safe, fire-resistant, transparent floor, allowing for maximum light exposure whilst being aesthetically pleasing to the client. The client also specified a sandblast design to the upper surface of the fire floor to provide slip resistance and privacy to the room below, which was incorporated into the design.'

The installation was successfully completed within two days, with final cladding and decoration by the main contractor.

At 1m x 3m for a standard single panel, the Triple-Lite Firefloor is the largest fire-resistant floor that has been tested and approved to current British and new European standards. It offers incredible strength and durability and provides protection for over one hour for both integrity and insulation. It allows crucial time for the safe evacuation of people and prolongs protection to the building fabric.

To obtain more information on the Triple-Lite Firefloor system e-mail chris@glazeguard.com or telephone the Technical Helpline on 01744 692000.

Newbuild 'Haven' for Regent Windows

Regent Windows (South Wales) Ltd recently supplied and fitted Halo windows, entrance and patio doors for the first phase of an 80-home estate at Milford Haven, West Wales.

Having considerable experience in supplying the newbuild market, Regent Windows was chosen by developers South Haven Construction to manage the fabrication, delivery and final installation of PVC-U windows and doors in the three and four bed properties at Westhill.

Manufactured from the WHS Halo Eclipse 70mm system, the white casement windows feature high security hardware and all the company's products carry a full comprehensive ten-year guarantee. A total of over 1,000 windows and doors will be required by completion sometime during 2006.

From its Haverfordwest premises, Regent has the flexibility to meet local housebuilders' tight deadlines to ensure properties are made watertight as dictated by on-going build schedules. The company specialises in offering a complete support package, from initial advice and surveying to project management, installation and aftercare, to all customers whether they are trade, self-builders or housebuilders.

‘Our experience in working with housebuilders from concept to completion meant we were able to satisfy South Haven Construction's requirements for a reliable supplier who could project manage the fenestration supply chain to ensure the whole project ran smoothly,’ comments Simon Apps, Regent's Sales and Marketing Manager.

‘In addition to supplying and fitting the doors and windows, we are also in direct contact with owners as they move into their new homes so any queries or advice about their use can be handled by us directly,’ he adds.

Contact Simon Apps at Regent Windows (South Wales) Ltd on 01437 891831 or visit the website at http://www.regentwindows.co.uk.

Everest Chooses Celuform to Refurbish HQ

Taking a cue from the company slogan ‘Fit the best’, Everest had no hesitation specifying Celuform PVC-ue fascia, soffit and cladding for the refurbishment of the company’s headquarters at Cuffley, Potter’s Bar.

The front aspect of Everest House, a three-storey 1960s development, is being completely redone with Celuform’s 150mm shiplap cladding, as well as special fascia and soffit.

‘There is no question that we would even think of specifying any cellular plastic products other than Celuform’s,’ comments Grant Matthews, Everest’s Head of Product Development.

‘The company’s UK head office obviously must be a showcase for the products that our installers use. We recommend to our customers that they use the best and we do not hesitate to do the same.’

Celuform shiplap cladding is a traditionally shaped, tongue-and-groove jointed system available in Warm White and Ice White colours. A comprehensive range of edge, corner and joint trims ensures a neat and complete finish.

The fascia is a bull-nosed flat-backed board that allows direct fixing of rainwater systems without any additional timber support. Grooved versions are available to support horizontal soffit boards. Inclined grooves can be incorporated as a special version if the design requires the soffit to be pitched and fixed direct to the rafter.

For more information about Celuform PVC-ue products call 01622 719199, fax 01622 882258 or go to http://www.celuform.co.uk

Conservatories Go Sky High for Bloor

Sheerframe windowmaker Coalville Glass has created conservatories at rooftop level on a new Bloor Homes development of upmarket homes in the West Midlands.

Bloor's eightplusseven development of 15 luxury two bed apartments close to the centre of Acocks Green village near Birmingham is on the site of a former hotel.

The two new build blocks are of timber frame construction with bay windows - also made and installed by Coalville Glass - on all floors.

In the initial designs, the upper floors were to feature open balconies but, working with Sheerframe systems company L.B. Plastics Ltd., Coalville was able to demonstrate how additional living space could be created via the construction of the unusual conservatory structures.

Now the balconies feature dwarf walls in brick with square and splayed bays surmounted by angled roofs using the new Sheerlite roof system and Sheerframe 6000 profile.

All windows on the two apartment blocks feature Georgian glazing bars on casement opening lights.

Coalville Glass recently completed work on a Bloor Homes flagship development at Burntwood near Lichfield and is currently working on a number of Bloor sites across the region including a three-year partnering arrangement to supply and install Sheerframe windows at Herringshaw Gardens, one of Bloor's major developments in Bilston, near Wolverhampton.

Grey Windows for Yorkshire Mill Development

Oats Royd Mill is situated in the picturesque Luddenden valley, close to Halifax. Originally built in 1887, it was a prosperous steam powered spinning mill employing 2,000 people and producing high quality worsted cloth. However, the late 20th century saw a decline in demand for locally produced textiles and the mill was closed as a weaving operation in 1982. After attempts to regenerate the mill as a business centre, the whole structure was abandoned after a fire destroyed the six storey central section.

The site has now been purchased by specialist developer Lowry Renaissance. The company has devised an innovative method of converting all the traditional north light sheds on the site to residential units with roofed car parking and leisure areas, which is believed to be the first scheme of this type in England.

Window Systems Ltd of Lancashire, has been chosen as the approved installer for windows and doors. The company is a customer of Indigo Products Ltd. The brief has been to supply approximately 250 windows and doors in Spectus' Sightline 70 system. All of the windows and doors have been supplied in Grey in order to complement the original Yorkshire stone.

The project commenced in October 2004 and is due for completion in late 2006. Dave Smith, Managing Director of Window Systems Ltd said: ‘we have worked with Indigo Products for the past three years and have developed an extremely good working relationship over that time. As most of the windows are tilt and turn we decided to opt for foiled frames rather than painted. The site is exposed to the elements as it is on the side of a hill so we needed to be sure that our supplier was capable of manufacturing to the highest standards. In that respect, Indigo Products has certainly passed the test.’

Dave Stearman, National Sales Manager of Indigo Products comments: ‘Oats Royd Mill is a very prestigious project and we are delighted to be working in partnership with Window Systems Ltd. Our modern factory and our 20 years of experience have meant that we can supply and support Window Systems with complete confidence.’

Tel: 01922 743202

Glass Canopy Brings Order to Mayhem

Glass and glazing and architectural metalwork specialist Firman Glass has manufactured and installed a glass canopy for Southend-on-Sea's latest clubbing venue 'Mayhem', using the AL-Sky® canopy fixing system from SFS intec.

Measuring 4.7m wide by 3.0m deep, the glass canopy provides cover for the main entrance to the major new nightclub in Southend town centre. It has been designed for maximum aesthetic impact and a major factor in achieving this has been the minimal use of glass fixings.

By using AL-Sky® from SFS intec, Firman's design team was able to create a large single canopy weighing 1128kg with just eight fixing points. In addition, the AL-Sky® system enabled Firman's installation team of eight to complete the installation of the canopy in just four hours.

Peter Cordell of Firman Glass says: 'This is the first time we have used the AL-Sky® fixing system from SFS intec and we are delighted with the end result. Whilst by no means the largest glass canopy we have produced, it has certainly helped us to create an attractive and sizeable canopy in a prominent position where aesthetics are extremely important.'

The AL-Sky® canopy system is part of SFS intec's range of glass fixings which is increasingly enabling architects and designers to expand their use of frameless glass in all types of application. It is an easy-to-use system which comes in three standard packages for small, medium or large canopies, and SFS intec's technical team also works with designers to create bespoke solutions.

For further information on the AL-Sky® canopy system from SFS intec, telephone 0113 208 5500 or visit http://www.sfsintec.biz/uk.  Full details about Firman Glass can be found at http://www.firmanglass.com.

Caption: The newly installed glass canopy at the Mayhem nightclub in Southend-on-Sea, manufactured and installed by Firman Glass using the AL-Sky® canopy fixing system from SFS intec. .

System 10 Helps London Borough to Blossom

A range of System 10 PVC-U windows and doors, including the company's Vertical Sliding Window, have been installed in a 1940s and 50s housing estate, as part of a major refurbishment programme being delivered by the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham.

Working in partnership with the main contractor, Makers UK Ltd, System 10 has supplied and fabricated over 400 windows and nearly 80 balcony doors for installation in 60 flats within the Flora Gardens development.

Over two-thirds of the windows installed were System 10 Vertical Sliders; a PVC-U sash window developed specifically for older properties and those located in conservation-sensitive areas, where a traditional authentic appearance is so important.

Mike Stevenson, Sales and Marketing Director Public Sector for WHS Halo System 10, commented: ‘The Council was in search of a window that could deliver all the practical benefits of PVC-U, like durability and low maintenance requirements, combined with traditional aesthetics that would complement the design and architecture of the properties.

‘Our Vertical Slider has been developed with these exact requirements in mind. What's more, we were happy to adapt the design of the window to meet an unusual requirement that was unique to these properties.

Complicated bay details on the rear elevation meant that we installed a pivot to ensure a seamless fit, a great example of System10's willingness to go the extra mile when it comes to satisfying the demands of individual projects.’

The project forms part of Hammersmith and Fulham Council's ongoing programme to upgrade its housing stock in order to improve the quality of life for residents in the borough.

Dave McGhee, Senior Site Manager, Makers UK Ltd, adds: ‘We have developed a good working relationship with System 10 on this project and have been impressed with the company’s service levels and understanding of this market. We are hoping to work with System 10 on more refurbishment projects in the very near future.’

System 10 Vertical Sliders feature traditional front to back profile dimensions to match existing box sash arrangements together with traditional astragal Georgian bar arrangements and hardware design. Weights and pulleys are replaced by high performance spring and spiral balances, and a tilt facility enables the safe cleaning of sashes from the inside.

A bespoke version of System 10's Vertical Slider is available specifically for use in conservation areas. Key features include putty-line aesthetics on sashes and authentic Georgian bars, 'Mortice and Tenon' appearance in key joints and traditional travel stops and 'straight-through' horn detail.

For further information on the Vertical Slider or the full System 10 range, please contact WHS Halo's Commercial Development Managers on 0121 749 3000. Alternatively, please visit http://www.system10.co.uk or http://www.publicsectornewsline.co.uk for further information.

Changing Rooms

Assured Fire Protection for Fitzwilliam Museum

As part of a project to provide 3,000 square metres of new and renovated space, the Fitzwilliam Museum, which houses the renowned art collection of the University of Cambridge, has incorporated a number of specialised floors that make use of specialist fire-resistant glass from Pilkington Building Products – UK.

Undertaken as part of a £12 million expansion programme, which has improved facilities at the museum, the bespoke fire-resistant glass floors, constructed using Pilkington Pyrostop™ and Pilkington Optifloat™ are located throughout the museum and have been specified to protect the building’s stairwells, raised walkways and communal areas in the event of fire.

Constructed by specialist fabricator T & W Ide Fire Products Ltd, the multi-laminated fire-resistant glass floors consist of a bottom layer of 23mm Pilkington Pyrostop™ and two layers of 25mm Pilkington Optifloat™ sandwiched either side of two resin interlayers, forming a single glass construction.

Specified for its excellent fire resistant qualities by architect, John Miller & Partners, Pilkington Pyrostop™ is ideally suited for fire-resistant glass floor applications while its transparency can add to the overall aesthetic feel of buildings in terms of light and space.

Mary Commerford, from John Miller & Partners, commented: 'The correct specification of the right products for inclusion in the numerous fire-resistant glass floors throughout the museum was vital. We wanted a translucent glass that would aid in meeting the current legislative requirements governing natural daylight within the building, creating a seamless visual appearance – while complying fully with the stringent fire-resistant and loadbearing requirements. The combination of 23mm Pilkington Pyrostop™ and Pilkington Optifloat™ met these requirements exactly.'

Tested in sizes up to 1300mm x 1300mm for this application, 23mm Pilkington Pyrostop™ is a clear, laminated, fully insulating fire and safety glass that offers the highest levels of fire protection. It provides both the integrity requirement of a barrier to both flames and hot gases as well as ensuring effective insulation from the radiant heat of a blaze for a time period of up to 60 minutes.

Complying with the exacting temperature criteria defined in British, European and International test standards, it has special interlayers which react to heat by foaming to provide an opaque barrier, minimising the effect of panic and acting as a pointer for fire services to indicate the presence of a fire on the other side.
Furthermore, 23mm Pilkington Pyrostop™, has achieved a Class A impact safety rating in accordance with BS 6206.

For details of Pilkington Pyrostop™, Pilkington Optifloat™ or any other Pilkington products please see the Pilkington website at http://www.pilkington.com, or contact the Helpline on 01744 692000 or email pilkington@respond.uk.com.

ClearShield Glass still Shining in Iceland

Ritec's ClearShield glass protection and renovation system is continuing to tackle the problem of silica contamination at two very different locations in Iceland.

More than ten years after the geothermal power plant at Svartsengi had over 1,000m2 of glass pre-treated with ClearShield installed, harsh silica build-up on the glass surface has been minimal.

ClearShield kept the glass looking like new and prevented the need for very expensive glass replacement which the power plant had previously experienced. Indeed, the solution at the plant has proved to be so successful and long lasting that much of the glass in the nearby Blue Lagoon spa resort also had ClearShield treatment.

The power plant, run by the geothermal power company Hitaveita Su_urnesja, provides part of Iceland's electricity and heating requirements by extracting geothermal energy from natural steam, hot water and hot dry rocks below the earth's surface.

For many years, the ordinary, unprotected glass at the plant suffered corrosion and staining by silica in the atmosphere, which bonded to the glass and caused it to look opaque. Despite frequent cleaning with harsh chemicals, the glass would soon become contaminated again.

The introduction of ISO 9001 at the power plant meant an effective solution had to be found to ensure compliance with the required quality standards. In 1994, the unprotected exterior glass was replaced by glass pre-treated with ClearShield.

Now, more than ten years on, the treated glass is still resisting corrosion, making it easier to clean and keep clean, with any silica contamination removed with the minimum of effort. As a result, no further replacement of glass has been necessary, proving that ClearShield is significantly easier to maintain than ordinary glass and also reduces costs.

Iceland's popular tourist resort, the Blue Lagoon, was created by excess geothermally heated water from the nearby Svartsengi power plant, which is perfectly clean and rich in minerals.

Also faced with silica contamination on glass doors and other glass surfaces in resort buildings, the Blue Lagoon had some 700m2 of the worst affected glass fully renovated onsite using the ClearShield System. The glass surface was then protected with ClearShield.

The treatment is based on a special polymeric resin, which provides the surface protection. Applied as a liquid, ClearShield reacts with the glass and becomes an integral part of the surface by forming a protective treatment that is chemically bonded to the surface and measures less than a micron in thickness.

Both applications were carried out by Ritec's Icelandic applicator Verkmenn, based in Keflavik. The General Manager of Verkmenn, Gumundur Helgi Önundarson, believes silica contamination is a major problem in Iceland:

‘ClearShield is ideal for this type of harsh environment, converting high maintenance, unprotected glass into Low-M (Low Maintenance) Glass®. Now workers at the power plant and visitors to the Blue Lagoon can enjoy a cleaner environment and the glass there requires just minimal maintenance to keep it looking pristine.’

Tel: 020 8344 8210
Web: http://www.ritec.co.uk

Italian Job for Fireswiss Foam

CGI's new fully insulated Fireswiss Foam fire glass has been used in a bespoke fire rated panelling system in the £1 million plus refurbishment of Biagio Café Ristorante in London's Piccadilly. The interior fit out of the four-storey building specified the extensive use of glass, including balustrades and partitions, to create a light and airy atmosphere for diners. CGI worked closely with the Biagio Restaurant Group's own building company, New Horizons, to develop a safe and cost-effective solution that satisfied the project's aesthetic demands and stringent fire regulations.

The refurbishment design created the need for a number of fire separation walls to comply with Building Control rules. However, initial quotes for a complete fire screen system proved prohibitive. ‘Then we contacted CGI,’ explains Biagio Caroleo, ‘and they were willing to work with our building team to devise a bespoke fire rated panelling system incorporating glasses from their range. This meant we could achieve the look we wanted for significantly less than a proprietary solution - and the result actually exceeds the fire rating standard required!’

The custom-built system consists of steel tubes in timber and plasterboard, with the fire glass framed within the decorated plasterboard screens to create the effect of windows rather than standard partially glazed partitions.

The use of both CGI's Paraflam glass units and 23mm Fireswiss Foam fire glass, both offering 60 minute fire and heat protection, allows the optimum amount of light to flood in, compared with using solid fire resistant panels. In addition, the fire-glazed stairwells and designated escape routes provide customers with protection from heat and flames in the event of a fire.

Fireswiss Foam is sold exclusively in the UK by CGI in a joint venture with the product's Swiss manufacturer. It is designed for applications where insulation from both heat transfer and fire spread are required, such as in escape corridors and fire lobbies in multi-occupancy dwellings and public buildings. The glass is manufactured from layers of float glass with silicate laminates and is available in two basic versions: 15mm thickness for 30 minutes integrity and insulation (30/30), and 23mm thickness for 60 minutes integrity and insulation (60/60). It is fire resistance tested to European Standard (EN) 1363 and British Standard (BS) 476 and has undergone safety impact tests to EN 12600 - class 1.

Tel: 020 7078 6660
Web: http://www.cgii.co.uk

Comar Supplies Aluminium Profiles for Ormskirk School

Comar Architectural Aluminium Systems recently supplied aluminium profiles for the largest educational project Lancashire County Council had undertaken so far – new build Ormskirk School. Alcoplan Ltd, a Comar approved fabricator, completed the installation in just over six weeks.

Four hundred and thirty three Comar 5P.i. top-hung windows were installed direct into brick reveals and, to provide opening vents to the curtain wall, were also integrated directly into Comar 6 curtain walling. Comar 5P.i. is a polyamide insulated system which provides an exceptional thermal efficiency and offers a dual colour option. In this projects the dual colour option was taken - the profiles were polyester powder coated to a blue RAL colour on the outside and to a red RAL colour on the inside.

To create a feature over The East Entrance, Comar 6 curtain walling was fitted with slim cover caps and transoms spaced at different dimensions, which brings animation to an imposing façade. The facetted effect was achieved with Comar 6 high spun corner mullions which can be adjusted from 15° to 145°.

Comar’s inherent integration allows the glazing-in of a multitude of design options into the same façade; this is evidenced in the striking West Entrance. Comar 6 curtain walling is polyester powder coated in red, which provides a contrast to the blue roof. A further feature is achieved through the integration of black mirror tinted panels with fixed and opening Comar 5P.i lights which, again, are dual colour into the Comar 6 façade. The composite of glass and panel is achieved with the variety of beads and gaskets.

Comar 7 swing doors, with anti-finger trap stiles, were hung direct onto Comar 6. Because all Comar systems are completely integrated, the same slim sight lines were maintained throughout the façade.

Contractor Birse Construction
Fabricator Alcoplan
Project Value £400,000
Location Lancashire
Architect Lawry Partnership
Systems Used Comar 5P.i, 6 and 7

Beaufort Meets School's Special Needs

Beaufort aluminium doors and windows are complementing the striking design of a west London school for children with special educational needs. Harlow-based Temple Windows has fabricated and fitted aluminium doors and windows for the £3m project to relocate the Jack Tizard School from Fulham to purpose-built premises in Shepherd's Bush.

The new two-storey building, designed by London architects Sprunt, incorporates a variety of innovative design ideas, including a mosaic artwork façade, which creates an ever-changing reflective surface. All materials used for the project were carefully selected to ensure they met the school's exacting functional requirements and provided visual stimulation for pupils and passers-by. The high performance Beaufort system satisfied all these demands, combining durability with elegant styling and slim sightlines.

Temple Windows' Managing Director and founder, Ray Dennis, comments, ‘The fact that we'd worked with both the building contractors and the architects on previous projects placed us in a strong position during tendering, as did Beaufort's technical and pre-contract support. Our input at the design stage plus a competitive quote and 10-year guarantee also helped us secure this prestigious and challenging contract.’

Temple's experienced team manufactured and installed 71 windows and screens plus 21 single and double doors in a brilliant white finish. Beaufort's tough, polyester powder paint coating is guaranteed to resist pollution, dirt and grime - making it a good choice given the school's urban location.

Temple fabricated the externally glazed windows using Beaufort's 70mm Classic deep direct fix outer frame, incorporating a Flat Vent with high security shoot bolt locking. The specification of toughened Low E glass and laminated sealed units ensures full compliance with thermal efficiency standards. Temple has also supplied standard and low threshold aluminium doors using the same frame system, which feature lever handles with key locking from the outside.

Ray continues: ‘Good technical back-up from Beaufort and the company’s usual reliable service enabled us to complete the contract on schedule and to the client's complete satisfaction.

‘Temple Windows has over 25 years' experience in aluminium manufacture. Since the company started fabricating the Beaufort aluminium system approximately four years ago, it has noted a dramatic increase in sales which it attributes to Beaufort's superior product range and superb support.’

Tel: 01633 29 40 40
Web: http://www.beaufortsecure.co.uk

Leeds Apartments Feature Rehau Windows in Colour

A seven-storey Leeds apartment block has been refurbished with Rehau windows coloured using the company’s Acryl II PVC-U colouring system.

Trade and commercial fabricator Northern Trade Windows (Pennines) Ltd fabricated and installed more than 1000 casement and tilt and turn windows using profile coloured in blue and grey.

The Acryl II system uses technology developed for the automotive industry to apply colour so that it becomes an integral part of the PVC-U and will not scratch or fade. White PVC-U windows can be coloured in any one of 150 RAL colours after they have been fabricated or, as in this case, Rehau can supply customers with bar lengths of profile pre-coated in the colour required.

The 108 apartments in the privately owned 1960s block have been refurbished by Cedar Property Developments with extensive changes to the external facades.

Cedar boarding and coloured metal cladding are being used on the exterior to upgrade and enhance the appearance of the block and the windows were chosen to complement this.

Architects on the project Dryden Wilkinson Perkis used PVC-U to replace the aluminium windows which were in place previously because they wanted a low maintenance option to satisfy the requirements of the tenants’ management committee but chose the Rehau colouring system because they wanted the windows to blend with the modern overall look of the project.

Northern Trade Windows demonstrated its technical expertise throughout the project - fabricating windows 5.7m wide x 1.8m high using a combination of separate frames joined together.

Casement windows in the Rehau S706 70mm system have been installed throughout the ground floor and glazed corridors on the project and tilt and turn windows have been used from the first floor upwards for ease of cleaning.

Based in Pudsey, Leeds, Northern Trade Windows (Pennines) Ltd has built a reputation as both a trade supplier and a commercial fabricator with particular expertise in the private sector.

Tel: 01989 762600

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