The fourth large-scale fire tests being carried out by the BRE in the wake of the Grenfell disaster has at last found a combination of aluminium composite material (ACM) panel and insulation that passes the Building Regulations.
This fourth test was of a wall system consisting of ACM cladding with a fire-resistant polyethylene filler (category 2 in screening tests) and stone wool insulation (a form of mineral wool).
This combination of materials has passed the test. A total of 13 buildings above 18 metres tall in England are known to have this combination of ACM.
However, the government’s Expert Panel noted that cladding and insulation materials can vary between manufacturers and can have different calorific values.
The way materials have been fitted and maintained can also affect the safety of the cladding system and it advises building owners need to continue to take professional advice as to whether any remedial work is necessary to ensure the safety of their building.
The positive results come after three different ACM panel/insulation combinations failed – totalling around 200 towers.
Meanwhile, the first refurbishment work of tower blocks to get the go-ahead since the Grenfell fire tragedy has been given the go-ahead.
Housing specialist Lovell has been selected by Sandwell Council to carry out a £9.7m revamp of three blocks of flats at the Lion Farm Estate, Oldbury, in the West Midlands.
The 18-month upgrade programme will include new windows, balcony doors and panels, and the fitting of fire-resistant, insulated external cladding.
The internal and external refurbishment of the three 1960s-built high rises – Harry Price, Hackwood and Wallace Houses – will start this month.
Altogether, the 13-storey blocks house more than 200 individual flats.
Lovell will also install new lifts and new door entry systems, create extra car parking, carry out landscaping and the redecoration of communal areas.
Lovell regional refurbishment director Carl Yale said that the firm had been working in the area as one of Sandwell Council’s refurbishment partners since 2005.
He said: “We are proud to be continuing our long-standing relationship with Sandwell Council through this latest refurbishment scheme.
“This is a major programme of work which will deliver important physical improvements for people’s homes as well as lasting community benefits for the area.”
