As extreme weather events are projected to become more frequent due to climate change*, the demand for resilient construction materials is also rising. In response, ROCKWOOL has subjected NyRock® Rainscreen 032 to a robust, independent testing programme designed to reflect how the product is commonly installed on buildings. The tests demonstrated that the insulation can withstand wind conditions equivalent to at least a Category 4 hurricane *. Carried out in accordance with BRE Digest 346 Part 7, the programme simulated 50 years of varying wind pressures. 125mm NyRock Rainscreen 032 was installed in a range of typical façade build-ups, including, critically, one that incorporated a breather membrane.  “Specifiers, contractors and building owners need every confidence that the products they’re using can withstand the weather of the future and have been tested in applications that reflect how they’re commonly specified and installed,” says Lisa Stephens, Product Manager at ROCKWOOL UK.  “A breather membrane is important to the testing process, as the wind can infiltrate behind it and exert pressure on the insulation. Despite this, not all rainscreen insulation wind load tests include a breather membrane.  “By testing our rainscreen insulation in a build-up that more closely replicates a façade’s design, architects and specifiers can make informed decisions, knowing the findings are rooted in common build-up scenarios.” The ROCKWOOL testing programme examined the product in two common façade build-ups: a steel frame masonry façade comprising 125mm NyRock Rainscreen 032 installed in ACS channel without additional mechanical fixings and a steel frame cladded façade with 125mm NyRock Rainscreen 032 installed with 50mm EJOT fixings. Both tests concluded that NyRock Rainscreen 032 can withstand a minimum of Category 4 hurricane conditions.  The 50mm fixing test was completed, recognising that space restrictions sometimes mean 70mm fixings cannot always be used. The testing confirmed that smaller 50mm fixings — instead of 70mm — are sufficient to endure Category 4 hurricane wind pressure. Similarly, in masonry façade build-ups, NyRock Rainscreen 032 demonstrated its strength without the need for additional mechanical fixings. In addition to providing independent verification for customers, the results highlight the potential for cost reductions and labour efficiencies. “In practical terms, this means specifiers and contractors can save on fixing costs with the knowledge that a more complete build-up has been independently assessed for wind-load,” Lisa concluded.  NyRock Rainscreen 032 is part of the ROCKWOOL NyRock range of products that offer the lowest lambda stone wool insulation currently available in the UK and Ireland** with 0.032 W/mK thermal conductivity. NyRock Rainscreen 032 also has a Euroclass A1 non-combustible reaction to fire rating and independently tested acoustic benefits.  For further details of the testing programme, visit rockwool.com/uk/wind-load-testing  *According to ‘The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale’ **Correct at time of going to press versus publicly available information.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Wetherby Wall Systems, part of the ROCKWOOL Group, is delighted to announce the launch of SOQEL A2, a fully compliant, impact-resistant, and moisture-protected External Wall Insulation (EWI) system designed for below damp-proof course (DPC) applications. Launching on March 17th, SOQEL A2 sets a new benchmark for fire safety and durability in external wall insulation. It’s the first fully fire-tested system for below DPC applications, meeting the latest A2-s1,d0 fire classification required for materials in buildings over 11 meters. This ensures compliance with the UK Building Regulations and provides a solid solution for the construction industry. With UK building regulations now requiring that materials used in buildings over 11 meters must meet a minimum A2-s1,d0 fire rating, SOQEL A2 offers architects, contractors and specifiers a reliable solution in line with these regulations. Designed for use in below DPC areas, as well as balconies, walkways and plant rooms, the system improves fire resistance, impact protection and long-term moisture durability. Unlike traditional solutions, such as bitumen paint, SOQEL A2 delivers a more effective and resilient alternative. This game-changing system integrates Coverrock x-2 pre-coated insulation, which ensures a strong and durable bond for coatings while protecting the A1-rated Stone Wool core during installation. Paired with Heck K+A SL coating and Heck CER Mesh, it also provides superior impact and moisture resistance, withstanding harsh weather and high foot traffic in exposed areas like balconies and plant rooms.  SOQEL A2 incorporates Heck 4S Silicone Render, ensuring a seamless finish that matches the overall façade system. Unlike traditional below DPC treatments, which may distrupt the building’s aesthetics, it offers a modern, integrated look while maintaining full regulatory compliance.  Joe Ragdale, Technical Director at Wetherby Wall Systems: “We have worked alongside our ROCKWOOL Group sister company, HECK in Germany to launch this innovative system into the UK market. We are delighted to introduce SOQEL A2, the first system of its kind for below DPC and base areas.” “This solution provides architects and contractors working on remediation projects with a compliant, durable, and efficient way to enhance building safety while ensuring a seamless finish alongside insulated façade systems.” For more information about SOQEL A2 or to discuss your project requirements, visit www.wall-systems.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

The major Solar Serena Sunrise redevelopment project, taking place in the beautiful village of Hornchurch, required Keyfix’s market-leading and A1 fire-rated Non-combustible Cavity Tray System (NCCT).    Solar Serena Sunrise is a redevelopment project that will see the creation of 175 high-quality new apartments in an over-55’s retirement community village. Sitting on the edge of the Green Flag-winning Harrow Lodge Park, the picturesque Park Rise development will give occupants the opportunity to take in stunning views of local lakes, reservoirs, wildlife, and open green spaces. With a tight deadline, and main contractor Wates Residential keen to futureproof the building for generations ahead, Keyfix’s A1 fire rated Non-combustible Cavity Tray System (NCCT) was specified, due to its robust performance and efficient installation. Keyfix supplied 3,600m of NCCT, including 1,900 pre-formed Corner Units and 12,000 Non-combustible Weep Vents. Additionally, Keyfix also supplied more than 600 of its Non-combustible Cavity Tray Lintels (NCCTL) to the project. Having pre-formed Corner Units helped speed up the installation process, with installers able to quickly and simply fix them into place and then secure them with Split Pins and Jointing Pieces. As the Corner Units are delivered to site already pre-formed, the quality of this integral component in the building is not compromised and provides reassurance that the area is safe-proofed. Keyfix’s NCCT is manufactured from Grade 304 austenitic stainless steel, which is 100% recyclable making it the ideal choice for the sustainability-conscious client and main contractor. Furthermore, the NCCT features a unique design that enables the stainless-steel tray to be self-supporting across the cavity and requires no support from the internal structure, boosting its thermal efficiency. It will also avoid the issues typically associated with differential movement. Additionally, Keyfix’s technical team regularly undertook site visits to check on the project progress, attended design team meetings, carried out CPD webinars and toolbox talks and completed a comprehensive component schedule/location layout plan based on drawings provided by the architects. The quick and efficient installation and early collaboration between all parties helped keep the project moving along smoothly, enabling all deadlines and budgets to be met. Mark Pasley, Procurement Manager at Wates Residential, revealed Keyfix’s NCCT had been chosen thanks to its high-performance stainless-steel material and A1 fire rating. He said: “We have used Keyfix’s NCCT before so we are well aware of its capabilities and have been so impressed with its speed of installation, enhanced energy efficiency, and reduced heat loss. “Delivery was efficient and all products arrived on site in line with the delivery schedule. Thanks to the quick installation of the NCCTs, the project went incredibly smoothly. We would have no hesitation in working with Keyfix again in the future.” For more information about the Keyfix range of non-combustible solutions, download the company’s expansive product brochure here, visit https://keyfix.com/ or for technical support call 028 8676 7508 or email info@keyfix.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Isover, a UK manufacturer of mineral wool insulation products, is launching new packaging to improve recyclability and reduce their environmental impact. Isover has reduced the ink coverage on its packaging to only 15%, with a change to white base foil. Additionally, the company will continue using 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content and aims to increase this in the future. The updated branding of the packaging has a cleaner look and includes a new suite of pictograms providing clear signposting for Isover product ranges, features and applications. Michelle Placide, Head of Insulation Category at Isover, said: “This packaging change to improve recyclability demonstrates Isover’s commitment to our purpose of making the world a better home while also improving our customers’ experience with the design changes to easily identify the Isover products for their projects”. Isover will begin the roll-out of the new packaging for all insulation products manufactured at its plant in Runcorn, Cheshire. The plant manufactures insulation products from up to 82% recycled glass, and all electric equipment in the plant is powered by 100% renewable electricity. The phased launch plan is expected to continue across the first half of 2025. The launch of this packaging is another key sustainability initiative from Isover, which is committed to supporting the circular economy and reaching Net Zero Carbon by 2050. In 2024, Isover partnered with The Pallet LOOP, a circular economy pallet supplier. Increasingly, Isover products such as Spacesaver and Acoustic Partition Roll are shipped on easily identifiable, green-coloured LOOP pallets, to significantly reduce avoidable pallet waste. To find out more about Isover’s insulation products and their commitment towards Net Zero Carbon by 2050, visit www.isover.co.uk/sustainability. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals