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As the problem with RAAC concrete being used in schools intensifies, what are the issues?

September 6, 2023/0 Comments/in Home Page news feed, News /by joannevickers

What is RAAC?

Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC), also known as Reinforced AAC, is a building material that combines the properties of Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) with reinforcement to enhance its structural strength. It is a lightweight, precast concrete alternative made from sand, cement, lime, and aluminum powder. The aluminum powder creates tiny bubbles in the concrete during a chemical reaction, resulting in a highly porous and lightweight material. AAC is known for its excellent thermal insulation properties, low density, and ease of construction.

In the context of RAAC, reinforcement typically refers to the addition of steel reinforcement, such as rebars (reinforcing bars), mesh, or other structural elements, within the AAC panels or blocks. Reinforcement is added to improve the material’s tensile strength and structural stability, making it suitable for a wider range of structural applications.

The combination of AAC and reinforcement offers several advantages:

Structural Strength: The inclusion of reinforcement enhances the material’s ability to withstand tensile and shear forces, making it suitable for load-bearing applications.
Lightweight: RAAC retains the lightweight properties of AAC, reducing the overall weight of the structure, which can be advantageous in construction.
Thermal Insulation: RAAC maintains the excellent thermal insulation properties of AAC, contributing to energy efficiency in buildings.
Fire Resistance: AAC, including RAAC, is known for its fire-resistant properties.
Sound Insulation: RAAC can offer good sound insulation capabilities.

Reinforced AAC is commonly used in structural applications where both strength and insulation properties are required. It can be used in residential, commercial, and industrial construction for walls, floors, and roofs. However, it’s important to follow proper design and construction practices to ensure the structural integrity of RAAC buildings. Engineers and architects typically design RAAC structures to meet local building codes and standards, taking into account the specific requirements of the project and the region’s climate and environmental conditions.

While reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) has many benefits, it also comes with certain potential risks and considerations:

Lack of Awareness: One of the primary risks associated with AAC is a lack of awareness or expertise among builders and contractors. Improper installation and construction techniques can lead to structural issues or reduced performance.
Reinforcement Corrosion: If not adequately protected, steel reinforcement within AAC can corrode over time, especially in environments with high humidity or exposure to salts. This can weaken the structure and compromise its durability.
Moisture Management: AAC is susceptible to moisture infiltration if not properly sealed or protected. Moisture can lead to mold growth, degradation of the AAC material, and reduced insulation properties.
Inadequate Design: In some cases, the design of reinforced AAC structures may not account for specific structural loads or environmental conditions, leading to potential weaknesses or safety hazards.
Fire Resistance: While AAC is generally fire-resistant, the presence of steel reinforcement can affect its fire resistance properties. If not designed and installed correctly, the reinforcement may become a heat bridge, reducing the overall fire resistance of the structure.

Why is it is the news?

Last week the Department of Education issued an alert to 156 schools, nurseries and colleges stating that the material is now life expired and could collapse with little to no notice. This left said schools scrambling to close and organise alternate arrangements the weekend before they go back. The Department also stated that they not fund emergency measures needed to keep teaching going, placing extra pressure on stretched school budgets. The Cabinet Office also confirmed that 34 other public buildings had also been found to feature RAAC. Investigations are continuing but so far these include 24 hospitals sites with RAAC plank construction in whole or a significant part of their estate. Seven of these need a full replacement and will be rebuilt before 2030.

The Government has been aware of public sector buildings that contain RAAC since 1994 and have been monitoring their condition since 2018. They say that they continually assess new information and research about RAAC to ensure the safety of schools and pupils. In 2022, the Department for Education sent a questionnaire to all responsible bodies, asking them to provide information to help understand the use of RAAC across the school estate and make sure the correct support is in place. Recent cases have now changed that assessment of the risk that RAAC poses to building safety. They are therefore taking immediate steps to ensure the safety of staff and pupils in line with this.

Sources: The Guardian / GOV.co.uk

Commercial Fire Safety During A Heatwave

August 1, 2023/0 Comments/in Home Page news feed, News /by Oliver Berry

Commercial fire safety during a heatwave is crucial to protect employees, customers, and property. Here are some important considerations to ensure fire safety in commercial settings during hot weather:

Fire Safety Systems: Ensure that your commercial building is equipped with functioning fire safety systems, including fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and fire extinguishers. Regularly inspect and maintain these systems to ensure they are in proper working condition.
HVAC Systems: Maintain and service your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems regularly, especially during a heatwave. Clean or replace filters as needed to prevent dust buildup and ensure proper airflow. Faulty HVAC systems can increase the risk of fire due to overheating.
Electrical Safety: Perform routine electrical inspections to identify any potential hazards, such as overloaded circuits, faulty wiring, or damaged electrical equipment. Encourage employees to report any electrical issues promptly. Avoid using extension cords for prolonged periods and ensure proper electrical load distribution.
Emergency Exits and Evacuation Routes: Clearly mark emergency exits and evacuation routes throughout the building. Keep them free from obstruction and ensure employees are familiar with the evacuation procedures. Conduct regular fire drills to practice evacuation protocols.
Fire Safety Training: Provide comprehensive fire safety training to all employees. This training should include fire prevention techniques, proper use of fire extinguishers, and evacuation procedures. Employees should be aware of emergency contacts and how to report fire incidents.
Flammable Materials: Store flammable materials in designated areas that are well-ventilated and away from potential ignition sources. Ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal of flammable substances. Follow all safety regulations and maintain updated Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for hazardous materials.
Smoking Policies: Implement and enforce strict smoking policies. Designate designated smoking areas away from the building and provide proper receptacles for extinguishing cigarettes. Discourage smoking near flammable materials or in areas susceptible to wildfires.
Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of the premises to identify potential fire hazards, such as blocked fire exits, malfunctioning equipment, or storage violations. Promptly address any issues that are discovered.
External Fire Hazards: Assess and mitigate external fire risks, especially during heatwaves. Clear dry vegetation, debris, and flammable materials from the building’s surroundings. Ensure that fire hydrants and firefighting equipment are accessible to emergency responders.
Stay Informed: Stay updated on weather forecasts, heatwave alerts, and any fire-related warnings or advisories issued by local authorities. Establish communication channels to receive and disseminate information effectively.

Contact us to ensure that your commercial building meets all necessary fire safety regulations and guidelines specific to your location and industry. By implementing proactive fire safety measures, you can minimise the risk of fires and protect your business, employees, and customers during a heatwave.

What is air sealing?

January 8, 2020/0 Comments/in Commercial, Home Page news feed, Interiors Fit Outs, News, Residential /by joannevickers

Air sealing is the process of restricting air movement through tiny cracks and gaps in your business or residential property. When you run heating or ventilation in your home this builds pressure. If leaks and gaps are present it can transfer conditioned air to the outside reducing efficiency. Air leakage can account for around 30% of heating costs. Air sealing prevents the loss of this conditioned air by filling in the tiny cracks and gaps.

A massive amount of energy is wasted due to the air leaking from cracks, holes and gaps at your property. This can cause several issues including increased risk of condensation and cause health risks caused by damp and drafts. Broadsword can work with you to inspect and plan the repair of these cracks and gaps to ensure your property is airtight. Doing so can also have a monetary savings on your heating bills as air sealing is proven to reduce energy costs.

How Air Leakage Affects your business or residential property?

Air leakage not only affects energy loss but also contributes to property deterioration. Obvious air leakages will be easy to spot and easily resolved; however, hidden air leakages are the root problem and can be harder to find and treat. Air that leaks must be replaced and is usually drawn in from the ground. If you don’t have an effective vapour barrier, moisture can be absorbed causing mould development, water damage or animal infestations. Moisture can enter your property using the tiniest gaps. This can aid in the damage of your properties foundations.

How to Air Seal your Home?

Here is a brief breakdown of how a home is air sealed:

Loft Air Sealing – Any hole made in your ceiling is called a thermal bypass or an air leak. This extends to lights, fans, plumbing stacks and chimneys. Most of these holes can have foam sprayed into them; however, items like chimneys and recessed lights require more specialist methods.
Plug Outlet Air Sealing – The simplest method of air sealing an outlet is to use foam backers behind outlet covers and child proof plugs to prevent air coming out the holes.
Basement and Crawlspace Air Sealing – There are a lot of possible leakage spots in the basement. When looking to air seal your business or residential property, the basement should be your priority. Rim joists and the sill plate that it sits on can be a major leakage point and can have a lot of holes surrounding it. These are usually filled with caulk or foam.

What are the Benefits of Air Sealing?

Energy Efficiency – The energy consumption of your commercial or residential building usually depends on the age of it. New properties are built with energy efficiency in mind, whereas older properties can tend to use a lot more. Both new and old properties can benefit from air sealing but the changes in efficiency to older houses can be dramatic with anything up to a 50% saving on energy expenses.
Increase of Indoor Air Quality – Fresh outdoor air is a good way of increasing indoor air quality; however, this should be controlled using a ventilation system and not through cracks and gaps. These gaps are uncontrolled and can carry moisture, pollution and allergen into your property causing a whole host of problems including medical issues like asthma and allergies.
Prevent Mould Deterioration Around your Property – Mould spores travel through the air and can be traced pretty much anywhere. They can be taken along by the wind and end up in all sorts of nooks and crannies of your property including attics, basements and crawl spaces. If the tiny cracks and gaps aren’t filled and these spores mix with the moisture that has infiltrated into your property mould will begin to appear in these spaces. Air sealing maintains these areas of your property causing them to be dry and prevent the spread of mould.
Increased Comfort – Cracks and gaps in your property can cause drafts, noticeable temperature differences in rooms and cold floors and walls. This can create a very unpleasant environment which can be made infinitely better by air sealing.
Prevents Property Deterioration – Toxins, pollution and mould can all impact on your property’s foundations. Air sealing will prevent all of these particles from entering your loft and crawl spaces causing water damage, vermin infestations and mould development.
Cost Effective – Air sealing repairs can start saving you money as soon as it’s done. Your energy bills can improve, along with your air quality and your peace of mind that you will not need to pay out on unnecessary repairs due to air leakage.

To book an inspection with our fully qualified and insured team contact Broadsword on 02380 675 888. The team will be able to talk through your concerns and arrange an inspection at your commercial or residential property.

Commercial building was the best performing area of construction output in August

September 5, 2018/0 Comments/in Home Page news feed, News /by joannevickers

Commercial building was the best performing area of construction output in August 2018, followed closely by residential work.

However, the latest expansion of housing activity was the weakest since March, and civil engineering workload decreased for the first time in five months. A number of survey respondents cited a lack of new work on infrastructure projects.

Overall, August data pointed to a renewed slowdown in output growth across the UK construction sector but positive signs included an increase in new business and employment growth maintaining the recent peak level seen in July.

At 52.9 in August, the seasonally adjusted IHS Markit/CIPS UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) eased from July’s 14-month high of 55.8, but remained above the crucial 50.0 no-change mark. The latest reading signalled a moderate overall rise in construction output, with the rate of expansion the weakest since May.

Anecdotal evidence cited resilient client demand and supportive economic conditions, but there were also reports that Brexit-related uncertainty continued to hold back investment spending. Higher overall workloads encouraged additional staff recruitment across the construction sector in August. Survey respondents noted tight labour market conditions and shortages of suitably skilled candidates to fill vacancies.

Purchasing activity increased for the eleventh consecutive month in August, although the latest upturn was the weakest since March. Low stock and labour shortages among suppliers continued to impact on delivery times for construction products and materials. The latest deterioration in supplier performance was the greatest seen for almost three-and-a-half years. Despite stretched supply chains and rising energy-related costs, latest data indicated that input price inflation edged down to its lowest since July 2016.

UK construction companies are optimistic that business activity will expand over the coming 12 months, but the degree of confidence eased to its weakest since May. Survey respondents cited confidence about achieving organic growth through new project wins and geographical diversification, while Brexit uncertainty remained the main factor cited as holding back sentiment.

Tim Moore, associate director at IHS Markit and author of the IHS Markit/CIPS Construction PMI, said: “The construction sector slipped back into a slower growth phase in August, with this summer’s catch-up effect starting to unwind after projects were delayed by adverse weather at the start of 2018.

“Civil engineering was the worst performing area of the construction sector, with output in this category falling for the first time since March amid reports citing a lack of new work on infrastructure projects. House building saw a particularly sharp slowdown since July, meaning that commercial construction was the fastest growing sub-sector in August.

“There are some encouraging takeaways from the latest survey, especially the resilient degree of new business growth in August and a strong upturn in staff recruitment. Survey respondents noted that they are confident about achieving organic growth at their businesses in the coming 12 months. The degree of optimism reported in August remained constrained by external factors, including domestic political uncertainty, stretched supply chains and shortages of suitably skilled labour.”

Duncan Brock, group director at the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply, said: “Cracks in the construction sector’s masonry were beginning to show again this month, and the house building sub-sector was hit the hardest as it reported the poorest performance since March this year.

“Civil engineering saw a drop off in larger infrastructure projects and found itself in contraction territory. Levels of new work held moderately steady overall, but with any significant growth held back by Brexit uncertainty. It was also the logjams in supply routes that hampered work in hand where material and skills shortages meant vendor performance deteriorated to its worst level since March 2015.

“If there is anything positive to note from this month, it would be that the rate of hiring remained strong. However, persistent pressures from skills shortages and slow rates of new orders will continue to hit business optimism still trailing below the survey’s average.

“The sector is hovering too close for comfort to the no change mark, which makes it a contender for more disappointment next month. Though the path to Brexit is paved with good intentions, without significant progress the sector will soon be building castles in the air rather than on solid ground.”

Source: The Construction Index