2019 Scottish NRFC Finalist in the Single Ply Category
Main Contractor: Crannog Construction with EKJN Architects
Client: Crannog Construction
Situation on secluded site in central Linlithgow this eco new build is one of a kind. The material used on this unique roof was Icopal Monarplan Single Ply. The roof of this project threw up many challenges for the team, from the many penetrations through to the roof accommodating the solar photovoltaic and solar thermal panels and skylights through to the finishing touch of the faux lead rolls which were created by hand in our workshop adding a very pleasing aesthetic end result.
As this build was in a conservation area the vision the architect had could not be altered to ensure meeting all prior planning approvals, one of which was the lead roll appearance of the finished roof. As Icopal do not manufacture lead rolls, only a stand and seam finish we had to get our thinking caps on. Our solution was to manufacturer imitation rolls in our workshop using rounded timber roll which we cut to size, adhered and hot air welded the single ply membrane to, this was then hot air welded to the exterior of the roof, achieving the faux lead roll which aesthetically ticked the boxes for all involved.
It was a “busy” flat roof with most of the services cleverly hidden behind parapet walls to keep the seem less finish of the entire building. Within and around the parapets there was a fair amount of up stand detailing to be completed.
This was also complicated by the installation of the solar photovoltaic and solar thermal panels, we sourced the circular fixings, provided samples to the architect, it took a few weeks before these were given the go ahead and our recommendation was adopted.
There were various non standard detailing and solutions to be sought on this project. By fully understanding how single ply flat roofs should perform we were able to come up with an out of the box solution which would have no impact on the roof performance.
The main field area was pretty standard to install however meticulous attention had to be devoted to the faux lead rolls ensuring precise measurements and installation to achieve the rolls uniformity, and a fantastic end result which the meticulous architect was very impressed with.
The site on this project was tight and with many trades onsite at once communication was key. In advance of the site breaking ground we attended 3 meetings to go through the intended program of works and where we would slot in, we also had prior meetings with the solar thermal installers which was fantastic as we were able to give instruction on caring for the newly laid single ply to avoid any accidental penetrations given they had to work on top of it.
By providing full photographic and video diaries the clients could easily see the stages of progress and the problems uncovered. We operate our own in house system to deliver this. This is a full record of the job process from the first phone call to the last sweep of the brush and everything in between. This information is shared from the office to site staff and can be updated instantly at both ends with site staff using the IPADS available in every van. For this project this was an invaluable tool as the nominated client contact could share the information daily of the updated works with all others involved, raise any questions they had and monitor progress. Not only that it gives full peace of mind that the works are being carried out as they should. On this project this made ease of communication with Crannog Construction and the EKJN architects, keeping the job running as per the schedule. Any issues arising from the day before was communicated to our staff in our morning team brief so they were aware before arriving onsite.
All guarantees were approved by Icopal and the completion certificate signed off by the local authority and architect which was satisfying given it was not a run of the mill job.
