The first multi-floor development using Fillcrete’s factory-manufactured TRADIS wall panels, floor cassettes and roof plates is currently under construction in Portsmouth.
The four and a half storey block of 32 apartments is being constructed for Bellway Homes plc. Previously TRADIS has only been used to construct two storey properties.
Bellway group product development manager Ian Skeoch said: ‘This is our first use of TRADIS and it came about after I saw the system being erected for housing association terraced houses in Liverpool.
‘I liked the idea of a breathing wall, the insulation and the speed of construction’, he said – and the original brick and block design for the apartments was axed in favour of TRADIS.
The original total build programme of nine to 10 months has been cut to six or seven months – and the structural shell of the block will be constructed in 14 weeks which will enable the developer to see a faster return on investment.
Bellway modified the design of the apartment block so it could take advantage of the construction and performance benefits of TRADIS. This included making use of the entire space under the roof which is totally clear as TRADIS roof plates negate the need for cross ties and struts.
Mr Skeoch said: ‘When we have completed this development we will take stock and decide which way forward we go. We use timber frame throughout the land, partic-ularly on apartment blocks and personally it is my preferred method of construction.’
