Urban construction comes with its challenges, but building near the Thames means the potential for flooding can complicate things further. The Forge, Upton Park, made use of Ravatherm XPS X 300 SL insulation in a blue roof system to overcome the challenge of its location in a Critical Drainage Area.
The 192-home development, designed by RM_A Architects, required a roofing solution that would meet Newham Council’s strict attenuation and flow rate requirements. The housing and apartment development also needed to meet high thermal standards and offer visually attractive habitat roofs in sections overlooked by apartments. Roofing specialists Radmat were able to supply a combination of blue and green roof systems to meet the specification, with some careful amendments. In the most challenging areas Radmat proposed its ProTherm QuantumVacuum Insulated Panel system which enabled the area to achieve the thermal requirement in 80% less space compared to standard insulants, while still meeting the attenuation demands.
This system includes Ravatherm XPS X 300 SL, Ravago Building Solutions’ high-performance, multi-purpose extruded polystyrene insulation. Its closed-cell structure and smooth surface skin allow for minimal moisture uptake, resulting in a durable product that stands up to the effects of rain and frost, and a popular choice for British construction. The project’s innovative roofing and drainage strategy was recognised at the Housing Design Awards and Architects‘ Journal Specification Awards in 2020.
Mark Harris, Head of Technical and Operations, Radmat Building Products, said:
“Ravatherm XPS X 300 SL played a significant role in meeting this project’s stringent demands, reflected in the award wins, and most importantly, in the client’s satisfaction with the completed works.“
Richard Powell, Roofing Sales Manager, Ravago Building Solutions, added:
“We delight in working with our clients to produce outstanding outcomes, and don’t allow challenging specifications to stop us. This project offered the opportunity to provide a solution for an issue that will complicate many London developments, and contribute to a building that will offer a safe and thermally sound home to many”.