Nova House, a Higher Risk Building (HRB) located in Slough, Berkshire, recently underwent significant renovations to replace its previous cladding and address various fire safety concerns. The project, led by main contractor Morgan Sindall Construction, faced numerous challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and unforeseen structural issues discovered during the removal of the previous cladding. Despite these obstacles, Morgan Sindall Construction worked closely with installers Middlesex Facades to ensure the project's completion before the end of 2024.
Over 3000m2 + of Valcan’s A1 Aluminium VitraDual panels were specified for the building’s façade.
The panels, in Bold Cream and Bronze Metallic, have given the building's façade a modern and refreshed appearance. VitraDual panels are classified as A1 in accordance with BS EN 13501-1, making them the safest choice for buildings that require high fire safety standards. Additionally, these panels are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring long-term protection and visual appeal.
The renovation has also significantly improved the building's thermal performance, making it more energy efficient. Enhanced fire safety measures have been implemented, providing residents with greater peace of mind.
Valcan VitraDual can be custom-designed into a wide range of shapes and dimensions as well as able to be perforated or curved in some applications making it a versatile design choice.
VitraDual is one of the few large format cladding panels that are truly 100% non-combustible achieving A1* to BS EN 13501-1. Also tested to BS8414-2 for fire performance of external cladding systems and compliant to BR135 requirements - certificates are available which include VitraDual in specific configurations.
VitraDual has also been successfully tested to CWCT standards at a safety loading of 3600pa in both cassette fix and rivet fix using VitraFix as the subframe system.
VitraDual (3mm) comes with a BBA (certificate number 20/5824) giving an external cladding service life of at least 30 years - see section 10 of the BBA.
Please download the test reports here for full specifications, limitations and criteria.
VitraDual gives the insurers, architects, contractors and building owners peace of mind on product specification.