In this article, learn about SFS Group’s commitment to going beyond standard offerings, providing innovative cladding support systems that elevate building performance and user experience
Despite the prevalence of design-and-build contracts across many construction sectors, a high proportion of architectural practices and developer clients still seek to achieve excellence in project specification and delivery, whether to target greater energy efficiency, the upper levels of BREEAM, enhanced whole-life cost, or perhaps to meet site-specific challenges.
In any of these situations, the outer envelope, and in particular the cladding system, is likely to play a pivotal role. This presents an area where consultants will likely seek greater support from manufacturers to ensure aspirations are achieved.
Inevitably, a balance must be struck between aspiration and cost constraints, including pressures to switch specifications as the programme evolves.
SFS is an experienced specialist in rainscreen cladding support systems
As a highly experienced specialist in the design and development of rainscreen cladding support systems, as well as carbon and stainless-steel fastening solutions, SFS Group enjoys excellent working relationships with a number of leading architectural practices, leading to the manufacturer’s involvement with a long list of landmark projects.
Andy Stolworthy, the director of product and market development, SFS, observes: “Not only is it advantageous for us to be able to engage early in the design process, to offer a consultative approach and optimise the outcomes; but the later that contractors attempt to change the specification, the higher the cost implications are likely to be.
“Ideally, adhering to the approved design parameters will enable goals to be achieved, whether that is on sustainability or particularly thermal performance, where sub-contractors are often tempted to try and switch specifications without rechecking the calculations.
“For example, switching away from our extruded aluminium brackets to folded ones will not only mean more of the cheaper ones are required to carry the load, but the increased points of contact with the main structure negatively impact the thermal performance. Ultimately, the U-Value calculations are invalidated, while the labour element of the installation cost also rises.”
Specialised specifier team sets SFS apart from competitors
In contrast to most competitors, which do not have staff fully dedicated to specifiers, SFS has two managers covering the North and South of the UK, who not only look to identify projects where they can directly add value but also liaise with the 12 regional technical sales managers, along with other members of the technical team.
This enables them to work directly with the design teams, material manufacturers, OEMs, and key contractors.
Alluding to the crucial aspect of safety, Andy Stolworthy continues: “Some of the larger clients are keenly interested in their estates, and also the longevity of the properties they 2develop, but most prefer to deal with manufacturers solely through the design process.
This distancing can result in inappropriate fall protection systems being installed. Ensuring safety for those involved with long-term maintenance or later adaptations of a building is paramount, particularly with regard to specifying robust horizontal lifeline systems for fall protection. Our lifeline systems are integral to the secure and efficient maintenance as well as installation of building envelopes.”
Going above and beyond to create stand-out structures
From its unrivalled ConnectSuite® online design tools to the delivery of half a dozen RIBA-certified CPD seminars and other types of support strategically structured to provide added value, SFS is committed to going above and beyond to help create stand-out structures.
He concludes: “In order that occupants can enjoy buildings which are safe and comfortable to live in – where the fire-stopping and the rest of the detailing is right – where condensation does not form around all of the window openings or other issues occur – we have to ensure we engineer them correctly. Ultimately, we are here to help ensure the best outcome for any project we are involved on.”
For further information, call 0330 0555888 or visit https://uk.sfs.com/.
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