With the recent acquisition, staff promotions, an new product launch and investment in fire testing and machinery, Nik Teagle joint Managing Director of Frameclad updates us on recent events and what to look forward to next.
When Martin Jamieson and I were invited to become Joint Managing Directors of Frameclad we were well aware this move was all about succession planning. Frameclad founder Mark Munns and his wife Diane had plans to step back and over the past few years we have been making collaborative decisions to ensure the transfer to our ownership was seamless for our valued clients and talented team. Our first move was to put our proverbial 'flag in the ground' and confirm our strategy of investment and innovation would be at the forefront of everything we do.
Production and Promotions
We already produce one of the largest ranges of light steel sections available in the UK today from a single manufacturer, but our investment in a further five cold-roll forming machines strengthens this leading position. Don't get me wrong, manufacturing and digital construction technology is massively important but with Frameclad, our strength lies in our people and the technical know-how within the team. We have increased our in-house design and engineering teams from 12 to 14 to meet the demand for our feasibility studies, on-site inspections, cost estimating and consultancy services.
I am pleased to announce that Steve Goodenough has been promoted to the role of Business Development Director. Since joining the Frameclad team in 2016, Steve has been instrumental in the success of the business. His customer first approach, considerable knowledge and willingness to go that extra mile ensures our projects meet rapid turnaround times.
Paul Kent has been promoted to National Sales Director. Driven by a will to succeed, over the last year or so, Paul has been dedicated to delivering exceptional sales support services. With his in-depth technical know-how, Paul has delivered optimum outcomes for our light steel construction clients that are designed and manufactured to outstanding building safety standards.
Marking a New Era in Infill Delivery
The launch of our latest innovation LEAF – a Lightweight Engineered Adjustable Frame has gone better than we could have ever hoped. Bringing a unique system to market is not without risk but we are an intrepid bunch, and we combined our technical might to design, engineer and manufacture this 'fit first time' solution. Simple in form yet revolutionary in application, the four-axis adjustable light steel frame infill system can be extended and aligned in all directions to overcome the challenges associated with mainframe dimensional discrepancies.
LEAF Specified for Landmark Development
100 West Cromwell Road is a landmark mixed-use development offering 462 private residential apartments across seven blocks, with the highest reaching 33 storeys – making it one of the tallest buildings in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.
We are proud to work alongside AC1 Construction supporting main contractor Ardmore Group and architects Corstorphine & Wright together with engineers AKT II Envelopes. This unique construction challenge involves working both above and beneath an operational Tesco store and car park located next to a major Network Rail line.
To help overcome these challenges, around 25,000sqm of our infill walling system LEAF is currently being designed and manufactured in readiness for installation. Pre-boarded with Obex Cortex External Sheathing Board, LEAF can be designed and tested to meet fire safety regulations so can be used in high-rise buildings over 18 metres.
What sets LEAF infill panels apart is that the system can be adjusted on site in all directions with total ease without the use of any specialist tools, cutting or welding equipment. Advancing the development and reputation of offsite technology, our product innovation will increase the wider market opportunities for light steel infill frames by offering assurances to installers and contractors. Safeguarding our 'fit first time' ethos, LEAF offers installers the flexibility to compensate for dimensional issues. Ensuring that the aperture is totally infilled, improves airtightness within the building envelope to enhance thermal performance and support net zero goals.
Fire Testing
Frameclad has commissioned a comprehensive series of fire tests. As an individual company we have been testing our own product innovations. In association with our clients, we have been testing bespoke project solutions. As part of a light steel collaboration, we have been supporting the Steel Construction Institute (SCI) with extensive tests to establish the behaviour of loadbearing light steel walls when exposed to fire on two sides. This growing suite of test data will shortly be available to download from our website.
Collaboration
Coming together for the good of the industry, we are firm believers in a partnership approach and are always interested to hear of collaborative ventures with construction clients, installers and other light steel frame manufacturers.
We have taken time to fully understand the requirements of the Building Safety Act and help our clients navigate through the gateways. By supplying comprehensive information on our system buildups and performance evidence, we support Golden Thread regulations. So if you have a project that may benefit from a feasibility study, or our expertise then please do get in touch.
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