N.S. Engineering Services provide amazing feedback following the successful installation of AliDeck Lite Board at the Macquarie Quay project in Eastbourne, East Sussex

The requirement for combustible materials to be removed and replaced with fire-safe alternatives has been a pressing issue within the industry over recent years. Not only are traditional materials a risk of fire but also the effects of mother nature in coastal areas where the moist and salty air can accelerate the wear and tear of exposed material. Fortunately, aluminium provides a far greater life expectancy among many benefits.

AliDeck is extremely pleased to have such great feedback from first-time customer N.S Engineering, who recently completed work on the Macquarie Quay remediation project in Eastbourne, East Sussex, following a recommendation from a recent EWS1 survey that specified non-combustible materials should be used when renewing the balcony decking.

N.S. Engineering was tasked with the remediation project and therefore replacing the existing timber decking for a range of coastal apartment balconies that overlook the scenic bay area. The timber was beginning to split and absorb the moisture in the area and rainfall. Working with us for the first time, it’s great to hear that we could tick all the boxes.

AliDeck were chosen by N.S. Engineering as we were able to provide them with all they needed to ensure a successful outcome for this project. In addition to being highly durable, aluminium also offers exemplary longevity, with a minimum life expectancy of 60 years, which is up to six times longer than timber, despite the apartments being located on the waterfront.

“Research was carried out to establish why AliDeck materials should be used over another supplier. Our findings highlighted the following: Greater material thickness, durable non-slip surface, paint finish and thickness, style, water channels, availability in 4 metre lengths, ease of installation and minimal waste (1 carrier bag for 14 metres of balcony) were all positive contributing factors to our procurement process.” – Noel Saunders, N.S. Engineering Services

Due to the project being extremely cost driven, we supplied 14 metres of our AliDeck Lite Board to aid with the value engineering of this project. Having a resident as a connection of Noel Saunders, Managing Director of N.S. Engineering Services, Noel’s team were entrusted with the job and the process of finding the most cost-effective supplier began.

The most challenging part of the process was removing the wooden boards because coastal corrosion had taken its toll on many fixings. The simple quick-fix solution was supported by an install guide to ensure a smooth, hassle-free installation. Once the existing timber decking was removed from the steel framework, the AliDeck Lite Board created a 20mm build-up height when placed upon the steel.

Colour-matched angle trims were added to the perimeter edges to complete to contemporary look across the modern apartments. Aluminium is an A-Rated material and due to the boards being finished in one of our standard RAL powder coat colours, RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey, they are fire-rated to A2-s1, d0 and A2fl-s1 standards, well within current regulations.

The robust decking has an imperforate layer which will protect the balconies below from hot spillages and excess rainwater to be channelled away towards the edge of the balconies. It will also create a level of privacy the previous decking was unable to provide. This is regarded as an additional safety feature protecting residents and other users of lower apartment balconies. It has also been written into the mandatory specifications for future projects on-site.

All stakeholders were thoroughly pleased with the outcome, and the images provided showcase a successful result in tone with the surrounding environment and current regulations. With risks highlighted through the EWS1 survey resolved, plans to remediate further balconies across the area have already begun.

Would you like more information about this balcony remediation project in Eastbourne, East Sussex?

Would you like to discuss further how we can best support and help you achieve compliant and fire-safe balconies for an upcoming remediation project?

We’d love to talk to you. Simply contact us via 01622 534 038 or email info@alideck.co.uk.

Visit our aluminium balcony decking page for more information or contact us now to discuss your projects.