roofing

With ‘once in a generation’ weather events becoming more frequent and the increase in outdoor space on tall buildings, it’s no wonder that many of the major housing providers are concerned about the potential for unsecured paving to cause damage.

Consequently, there is a growing focus in the construction industry on how to protect vulnerable structures such as balconies and roof terraces from wind uplift to ensure their safety and durability.

So, what can you do to protect against wind uplift and provide safe, secure environments? First, let’s understand the cause. 

In the wake of the Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017, stringent regulations have been put in place to ensure the safety of outdoor areas, particularly in relation to fire.  

While the requirement for the use of non-combustible components on specified attachments such as balconies is clear and unequivocal, areas that fall in the category of flat roof systems represent a different challenge.

Unlike balconies, the requirements for roof systems leave room for interpretation that can potentially lead to the installation of non-compliant build-ups.  To avoid falling on the wrong side of compliance, specifiers often resort to non-combustible options which can have a negative impact on their budget.

The new Government is committed to delivering 1.5 million homes (during this Parliament) including the biggest increase in social and affordable housing in a generation, therefore speed of construction is a priority.

That makes a revolutionary new roof tile, from pioneering manufacturer Russell Roof Tiles perfect, as the tile is 33 per cent quicker to install than other thinner leading-edge interlocking tiles. 

Marley’s SolarTile® range has achieved accreditation under the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) scheme, further demonstrating the company’s commitment to the transparency and delivery of detailed, accurate product information.

Marley’s SolarTile® range, which can be installed as part of an integrated roofing solution, joins Marley’s JB Red battens in passing the standard set by the CCPI, having undergone a full assessment process as set down by the Code.

Following on from his seminar presentation at this year’s Fire Safety Event, held in April at Birmingham’s NEC, Dr. Karthick Govarthanam, General Manager for FIREFLY®, explores some of the issues surrounding fire risk in roof voids.

Finding suitable roosting spots in urban areas has become increasingly difficult for bats in recent years due to improved building practices and materials that reduce defects. However, the innovative Manthorpe Bat Ridge Roost™ provides a solution by offering these important pollinators a new home among the rooftops.

Housing associations are increasingly looking to deliver low carbon, energy efficient housing for tenants. As such, the refurbishment, retrofit or new build landscape for housing associations requires continual evaluation.

A combination of government net zero targets and the cost-of-living crisis, fuelled by high energy prices, means the pressure is on for social housing providers to find solutions to the growth of people living in fuel poverty. Yet, in doing so, the sector also needs to remain compliant with the changing legislation demands, which are designed to create a low carbon housing future for all.