Understanding the cladding removal and replacement process
Proposed replacement products
- External cladding: Benx Supertech Weatherboard system, with an A1 reaction-to-fire classification to BS EN 13501-1:2018.
- Balcony decking: AliDeck Senior Ridged Balcony Board V2 system, an aluminium decking product with an A2-s1,d0 reaction-to-fire classification.
Access and preparation
Each building will generally be accessed using full-perimeter scaffolding, with working platforms provided at each floor level. The scaffold will incorporate the necessary access, edge protection and measures to protect residents and members of the public.
Before work begins to an area, residents will be informed of any access requirements, temporary restrictions or other arrangements affecting their homes or balconies.
Removal of existing cladding
The existing timber cladding and its supporting components will be carefully removed using hand-held and powered tools. Removed materials will be lowered safely, segregated where required and placed in designated waste containers.
This process will expose the existing timber-oriented strand board (OSB) sheathing and allow the underlying construction to be inspected.
Installation of the replacement façade
Subject to the approved design, the replacement façade will generally be installed in the following sequence:
- Inspect the exposed structure and existing sheathing.
- Complete any necessary repairs or preparatory works.
- Overlay the existing OSB with RCM Y-Wall sheathing board.
- Install the specified breather membrane.
- Install the metal support system for the replacement cladding.
- Install cavity barriers at the required floor levels, compartment lines, corners and openings.
- Inspect and record the completed concealed works.
- Install the Benx Supertech Weatherboard cladding, trims and associated components.
The concealed construction will be inspected by the relevant project parties at designated hold points. The external cladding will only be installed once the preceding works have been accepted in accordance with the approved inspection and quality plan.
Cavity barriers behind brickwork
New cavity barriers will also be installed at specified locations behind the existing facing brickwork, including relevant floor-slab and compartment-line positions.
Individual bricks will be carefully removed at predetermined horizontal and vertical locations. The cavity barriers will then be installed in accordance with the approved design and manufacturer’s instructions before the brickwork is reinstated.
Balcony decking replacement
The existing timber balcony boards will be removed and disposed of. Access to individual balconies will therefore be required, with appointments and arrangements communicated to affected residents in advance.
The existing steel balcony joists are expected to remain, subject to inspection and confirmation that they are suitable. The new AliDeck aluminium boards will then be installed onto the retained supporting structure in accordance with the approved design and manufacturer’s instructions.
The product classifications above are supported by the manufacturers’ published information. Compliance applies to the complete designed and installed construction—not solely to an individual product—and must be confirmed through the project’s design, inspection and approval processes.