SCF Stone Cladding Facades Ltd.
The Belvedere Estate, Cambridge
Residents Remarks
"SCF was in charge of replacing ACM cladding on our building which was a major undertaking and took about 18 months. I was very impressed by the way the works were carried out, and especially with the professionalism of the Foreman Paul Chiritoi who went over and above to sort out any problems. The workmen were respectful, kind and mindful of the inevitable noise and disruption to the residents' lives.
Not only was the cladding replaced but also some of the original defects left by the previous builders have been remedied. The building looks very nice and we are so grateful to all those who worked so hard and for the end product which will keep us safe from fire in the future."
Ms L Parry, Resident
The Belvedere Estate, Cambridge
Strip and Re-install of HPL Cladding
SCF were approached through the Chartered Building Surveyors for the Clients to look at carrying out additional works to the High Pressure Laminate penthouse and roof pod areas on the basis of the Belvedere Tower works.
Our initial scope was to prepare design drawings which would provide as existing elevational and through wall information. We were to propose a suitable A1 rated solid flat panel which would replicate the size and finish of the existing panels.
The next stage of the works was to carry out an intrusive survey on the building to determine the full scope of works required, ensuring that the existing construction was replicated from the tower.
The intrusive survey allowed us to determine the substructure was a bracket and rail system fixed back to blockwork external walls on a concrete floor slab. It allowed us to assess that there were fire barriers installed to the perimeter of openings but no cavity barriers were in place throughout the construction. The building had been suffering leaks since completion, it became obvious upon inspection that there was no vapour control layer within the construction and that perimeter openings had no seals to ensure the building envelope was complete.
The outcome of the Survey was our ability to prepare a more accurate Cost Plan for the Project providing a breakdown of necessary Components, Data Sheets, Fire Classification Requirements and Suggested Additional Repair Points which were consistent with the previous works carried out to the Tower. We provided a package of tender information, information as above as well as a package of drawing information identifying panels and indicative detail requirements, to permit the project to be put to competitive tender in order to secure funding from Homes England. Homes England are an executive non-departmental public body, sponsored by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government. Homes England hold the funding for re-cladding works to ensure these dangerous building projects are carried out in a timely manner safeguarding the inhabitants. Fortunately the funding for these works was granted and the residents can now feel safe in their new surroundings.
