The remediation of multi-storey multi-occupancy buildings is a complex and challenging task, but it is one that is essential to ensure the safety of residents. The Hackitt Report, which was published in 2018, identified a number of failings in the current system of building regulations and fire safety, and called for urgent action to be taken to make buildings safer.

This case study will explore the process of successfully remediating all balconies and terrace decks at Ashby’s Point in Tonbridge, Kent. It will discuss the benefits of aluminium decking and how it was used to create a compliant and futureproof environment for decades to come, in line with the latest building and fire-safety regulations outlined in BS 8579:2020.

Equans are currently supporting the cladding and fire safety works being undertaken at this relatively modern apartment building, on behalf of Town and Country Housing. The proactive decision was taken to ensure risks of potential fire from spreading across the external envelope were significantly and effectively reduced.

Wrightweld Fabrications are responsible for the removal and installation of the pre-existing decking materials used on-site across the balconies and terrace decks. They have over 16 years of experience in the welding & fabrication industry, securing and managing structural steel projects.

The remedial work will see the pre-existing balcony decking materials removed from the steel sub-frame and directly replaced with our highly popular AliDeck System 4, which utilises our Junior Flat Decking Board, Lite Joist, and Custom Pedestal Brackets. The necessary build-up height was also achieved using 40 x 40mm Box Section where required.

The terrace areas require the use of our aluminium spreader plates to support the use of our components on the concrete. This method requires no fixings into the concrete, offering fast and hassle-free installation for this floating system, as seen below.

The installation of the aluminium decking boards on the complex-shaped terraces required precise angle cuts to create a flush finish. Fortunately, aluminium is a lightweight and highly versatile metal that can be treated much like its timber counterparts. This means aluminium decking can be precision cut to length, width, angles, or to a required radius.

This ensures that each board is maximised to suit the shape of the building or structure, resulting in a high-quality finish that is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally sound.

Aluminium is a Class A-Rated material under the EuroClass guidelines, a system introduced to harmonise the standards across the EU. Our aluminium decking boards and balcony components are fire-rated to A2-s1, d0 and A2fl-s1 standards when powder-coated, with the boards for this project finished in our most popular standard colour, Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016).

The results offer a cost effective and fire-safe solution to support the futureproof environment Equans are striving to achieve. Residents will not only benefit from this additional peace of mind, and feeling safe in their homes, but also the low maintenance requirements our systems require outside of regular cleaning to maintain the aesthetically pleasing finish.

With project success built-in to all that we do, we’re dedicated to supporting many more successful balcony projects across the UK & Ireland. Would you like more information about this balcony remediation project in Tonbridge, Kent?

Would you like to discuss how we can best support and help you achieve compliant and fire-safe balconies for an upcoming remediation or new build project? We’d love to talk to you.

Call now on 01622 235 672, email info@alideck.co.uk or use the contact form to discuss how AliDeck can help support your project success.