FAQs

What is SFS steel framing?

Steel Framing Systems (SFS) are lightweight, cold-rolled steel structures used for external wall infill, load-bearing walls, and modular construction in commercial and residential buildings.

What are the advantages of using SFS over traditional building materials?

SFS offers high strength, speed of installation, design flexibility, fire resistance, and sustainability, making it a cost-effective alternative to masonry or timber.

Is SFS suitable for high-rise buildings?

Yes, SFS is commonly used in high-rise construction due to its lightweight yet strong properties, making it ideal for infill walls and load-bearing structures.

How is SFS installed?

SFS is prefabricated and delivered to site in pre-cut sections, allowing for fast, easy installation using screwed or bolted connections.

Is SFS fire-resistant?

Yes, SFS has excellent fire performance, often achieving up to 120 minutes of fire resistance, depending on insulation and cladding systems used.

Does SFS provide good thermal and acoustic performance?

SFS is used alongside insulation and external cladding to meet thermal (U-values) and acoustic (dB ratings) requirements, ensuring energy efficiency and sound insulation.

Is SFS environmentally friendly?

Yes, SFS is 100% recyclable and generates less on-site waste compared to traditional construction methods, supporting sustainable building practices.

What cladding options are compatible with SFS?

SFS can support a wide range of external finishes, including brick slip systems, render, rainscreen cladding, and composite panels.

How does SFS perform in extreme weather conditions?

SFS has high wind and impact resistance, making it ideal for buildings in exposed locations or harsh climates.

What is the lead time for SFS steel framing?

Lead times vary depending on project size and complexity, but standard SFS systems can be delivered in as little as 2–4 weeks.

What is rainscreen cladding?

Rainscreen cladding is an external façade system designed to protect buildings from weather, improve thermal efficiency, and enhance aesthetic appeal. It creates a ventilated cavity that helps manage moisture and insulation.

How does rainscreen cladding work?

It consists of an outer cladding layer that deflects rainwater and an inner wall with insulation. The ventilated cavity allows air to circulate, helping to prevent moisture buildup and improve energy efficiency.

What materials are used for rainscreen cladding?

Common materials include aluminium, zinc, stainless steel, high-pressure laminate (HPL), fibre cement, stone, glass, and terracotta, offering various design and performance benefits.

Is rainscreen cladding fire-resistant?

Fire performance depends on the material used. Non-combustible options, such as A1 or A2-rated metal and mineral-based cladding, comply with UK fire safety regulations (Approved Document B).

What are the benefits of rainscreen cladding?

Key benefits include weather protection, thermal efficiency, improved acoustics, reduced maintenance, and a modern architectural finish.

Does rainscreen cladding improve energy efficiency?

Yes, rainscreen cladding works with high-performance insulation to improve U-values, and meet Part L building regulations.

What is the lifespan of rainscreen cladding?

Depending on material and maintenance, rainscreen cladding systems can last 30–50 years, with durable options like aluminium and stone offering even longer performance.

Can rainscreen cladding be used on high-rise buildings?

Yes, but for buildings over 18 metres, UK regulations require non-combustible (A1 or A2-rated) materials for fire safety compliance.

Is rainscreen cladding environmentally friendly?

Many systems use recyclable materials and contribute to sustainable construction by improving energy efficiency and reducing heating and cooling costs.

What is the installation time for rainscreen cladding?

Installation time depends on the system type, building size, and access, but prefabricated panel systems can speed up construction and reduce labour costs.

What is a frameless glass balustrade?

A frameless glass balustrade is a minimalist railing system made from toughened or laminated glass, providing unobstructed views without visible posts or handrails.

What are the benefits of frameless glass balustrades?

They offer a modern, sleek appearance, maximise natural light, provide uninterrupted views, and are durable, weather-resistant, and easy to maintain.

What types of glass are used in frameless balustrades?

Typically, toughened or laminated safety glass, ranging from 12mm to 21.5mm thick, depending on structural requirements.

Are frameless glass balustrades safe?

Yes, they are designed to meet UK building regulations and can be tested to BS 6180 standards for strength and impact resistance. Laminated glass options ensure safety even if the glass breaks.

Do frameless glass balustrades require a handrail?

Not always. If the glass is laminated and meets the necessary structural load requirements, a handrail may not be needed. However, regulations may require one in certain applications.

Where can frameless glass balustrades be used?

They are ideal for balconies, terraces, staircases, pool surrounds, and mezzanine levels, both indoors and outdoors.

How are frameless glass balustrades installed?

Installation methods include base channels, glass clamps, spigots, or stand-off fixings, depending on the design and load requirements.

Are frameless glass balustrades weather-resistant?

Yes, they are designed to withstand wind loads, moisture, and temperature changes, making them suitable for coastal and exposed locations.

Can frameless glass balustrades be customised?

Yes, options include clear, tinted, frosted, or low-iron glass, different fixing systems, and stainless steel or aluminium handrails (if required).

What maintenance is required for frameless glass balustrades?

They require minimal maintenance—regular cleaning with glass cleaner and occasional checks of fixings and seals ensure long-lasting performance.

Why choose aluminium doors for commercial buildings?

Aluminium commercial doors are durable, lightweight, low-maintenance, and highly secure, making them ideal for offices, retail spaces, schools, hospitals, and industrial buildings.

Are aluminium commercial doors energy efficient?

Yes, modern aluminium doors feature thermal break technology to improve insulation, achieving low U-values that help reduce heat loss and comply with Part L building regulations.

What glazing options are available for aluminium doors?

Options include double and triple glazing, laminated safety glass, acoustic glass, and solar control glass, depending on the performance requirements.

Are aluminium commercial doors secure?

Yes, they can be PAS 24 certified and meet Secured by Design standards, with multi-point locking systems and reinforced profiles for enhanced security.

Can aluminium doors be customised?

Yes, they come in a wide range of RAL colours, anodised finishes, and different styles, including single and double doors, pivot doors, sliding doors, and automatic doors.

Are aluminium doors weather-resistant?

Absolutely. They are designed with high-performance seals and drainage systems to provide excellent air, water, and wind resistance for long-term durability.

Do aluminium commercial doors require maintenance?

Minimal maintenance is required—occasional cleaning and lubrication of hinges and locks will ensure smooth operation and longevity.

Are aluminium doors suitable for high-traffic areas?

Yes, commercial aluminium doors are designed for heavy use, making them ideal for retail, healthcare, and education buildings where durability is essential.

Do aluminium doors have accessibility features?

Yes, they can be fitted with low-threshold options, automatic opening systems, DDA-compliant push pads, and anti-finger trap stiles for safety.

What is the lead time for aluminium commercial doors?

Aluminium commercial doors can be supplied within 8 weeks if all information is provided. If these are part of a complex fire exit strategy and require detailed and thorough design, this can extend the lead times to up to 16 weeks.

What is aluminium curtain walling?

Aluminium curtain walling is a non-structural glazing system used for the external façade of buildings. It provides weather protection, thermal efficiency, and a modern aesthetic while allowing for large glass expanses.

What are the benefits of aluminium curtain walling?

Key benefits include lightweight construction, durability, energy efficiency, low maintenance, and design flexibility, making it ideal for commercial, retail, and high-rise buildings.

What are the different types of aluminium curtain walling?

There are two main types:

• Stick System – Assembled on-site, offering flexibility for bespoke designs.
• Unitised System – Prefabricated off-site, allowing for faster installation and improved quality control.

Is aluminium curtain walling energy efficient?

Yes, modern systems feature thermal breaks and high-performance glazing, achieving low U-values to improve insulation and meet Part L building regulations.

Can aluminium curtain walling be customised?

Yes, it comes in a variety of RAL colours, anodised finishes, and different glazing options (e.g., solar control, acoustic, and laminated glass).

How strong and weather-resistant is aluminium curtain walling?

Aluminium curtain walling systems are designed to withstand high wind loads, heavy rain, and temperature fluctuations, ensuring long-term performance in harsh conditions.

Does aluminium curtain walling improve natural light?

Yes, it maximises natural daylighting, reducing the need for artificial lighting and enhancing occupant well-being.

Is aluminium curtain walling fire-resistant?

While aluminium itself is non-combustible, fire-resistant curtain walling systems use fire-rated glazing and fire barriers to comply with building regulations.

What buildings are suitable for aluminium curtain walling?

It is commonly used in offices, retail complexes, hotels, airports, schools, hospitals, and high-rise residential buildings.

What is the lead time for aluminium curtain walling?

Lead times vary depending on project size, glazing specification, and customisation, but standard systems typically take 12–24 weeks for design, fabrication and installation.