Remediation of non-ACM cladding systems.
Since the tragedy of the Grenfell Tower fire in June 2017, the construction industry has been formulating
a considered response in the form of guidance for both existing and new buildings. Duty holders of buildings will understandably be concerned as to whether they have inherent risks within the construction of their facades, and in particular regards to ACM cladding
and combustible panels.
The requirements for facades under Building Regulations Approved Document B Volume 2- Buildings other than dwelling houses are subject to misinterpretation simply because the document does not specifically address the design and construction of modern façade systems, including ACM cladding.
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ACM cladding has been widely used in the UK in various forms for the past 40 years and established guidance for this form of construction has been available for the last 20 years. ACM cladding has proved a popular and effective choice of wall construction; however, as its performance relies heavily upon a well-managed and co-ordinated design along with appropriate site workmanship, this type of façade is prone to a number of issues including water leakage, detachment of components and fire safety.
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Water leakage and detachment of components, although potentially severe, do usually manifest themselves in an obvious way, allowing the building owner/occupier to take the appropriate course of action in a timely manner. With fire safety however, it is only in tragic circumstances, such as that witnessed at the Grenfell Tower, that the real-life performance of the façade becomes apparent.
Qualitas Inspection Services Ltd have been involved on a number of cladding new build and replacement projects for which we pride ourselves on providing a no nonsense zero defect policy.
Our technical monitoring on site team oversees the clients building contractors by providing support, guidance and management during the cladding removal and replacement process. We conduct
regular briefings, log and record all work, issue a weekly progress report which includes all matters raised, health and safety issues, photographic documentation, monitoring of the building programme schedule together with attending
the clients team progress meetings.
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We work closely with the contractors and the local authority building control, clients design team
and various consultants involved in the project.
Most projects are carried out on properties that
are currently occupied so minimal disturbance is key to the process especially during inclement weather.
Our on site team will scrutinise the fitting of all
fire stopping, fire breaks, fire barriers and fire socks together with all service and drainage penetrations. All commissioning, warranties, snagging, stage and final sign offs will be in
place prior to the handover to the client.
Should you require our services our façade consultant team is available for site visit’s
and advice during regular working hours.