The fire performance of cladding systems has understandably come under intense scrutiny. By sharing publicly our personal experience, we hope to provide reassurance to users of our non-combustible aluminium rainscreen system regarding its fire safety.

One of our earliest projects circa 1990 was the overcladding of the once derelict Hyde Park Flats, Sheffield, – Block A (renamed Castle Court). Overcladding was a relatively new concept at that time. Sheffield Building Control initially rejected our designs because of concerns regarding fire spread. We employed Arup Fire Engineers to process a DOT Determination and subsequently obtained statutory approval for the design. Several years after completion in circa 1997, a severe fire broke out on one of the deck access ways.

We were called back to investigate the fire along with Arup, the Fire Officer and Building Control. The reports concluded that the fire was severe, was fully contained, did not spread beyond its ‘compartment’ and that the cladding performed in accordance with approved Document B.

This d+b product is supplied as part of our ‘Design Build’ service wherein we are singularly responsible for the end product being ‘fit for purpose’. By this mechanism and reference to our extensive portfolio of successful past projects: Residential / HEFE spanning +25 years, consistently providing high quality, long lasting products that were all delivered safely, on time, on budget with minimum
disruption to occupants, our customers have certainty of project outcome and will achieve truly sustainable regeneration that will meet the needs of generations to come.

Only by reference to the oldest comparables can the industry avoid failures and be guaranteed success.
Assuring you of a quality service and product – d+b facades.