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riser doors

Achieving first class aesthetics and fire performance

Building Products Index Ltd Doors, riser doors Leave a Comment

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As the UK’s first manufacturer to bi-directionally fire test its riser doors, Profab Access understands the importance of ensuring the highest standards of compliance and certification.

That’s why it has developed the VEGA 1500 Fire Rated Series Riser Door, which provides architects and specifiers with an affordable yet compliant solution, ideal for installation throughout education, student accommodation and social housing applications.

Extensively bi-directionally tested by Efectis in France and Ireland, the riser door is suitable for use in shaft walls, standard flexible wall constructions and with all board manufacturers.The lightweight, easy to install solution provides professionals with permanent and safe access to mechanical and electrical services housed within a riser core.

As the riser door sets are fire tested from both sides for 60 minutes and are supplied with comprehensive certification, architects and specifiers can be sure the doors will maintain their frame and integrity for this period, preventing the spread of fire throughout the building.

The VEGA 1500 Series Fire Rated Riser Door is supplied as standard with Profab Access’ revolutionary PRECISION adjustable frame, which completely transforms the installation process and reduces fitting times by up to 30%.

This is achieved through the product’s unique construction, which enables the frame to be fully adjusted to meet the specific dimensions of each structural opening. Featuring a continual adjustable steel packer system, the PRECISION adjustable frame ensures the installation is fit for purpose by providing the highest standards in accuracy, whilst also removing the requirement for traditionally used packers during installation.

The engineered frame also features built in factory applied intumescent fire rated mastic strips to the outer frame, which provides fire stopping between the wall and the frame. This eliminates the reliance of the correct thickness of intumescent mastic bead being applied, removing any potential margin for error and ensuring compliance and adequacy of the entire installation.

To ensure the highest standards of performance and compliance are consistently provided, the VEGA 1500 Series Fire Rated Riser Doors are also 35dB acoustic rated, smoke sealed and airtight to Part L.

Available in both single and double door configurations, the VEGA 1500 Series’ value engineered construction achieves a flush, concealed finish that provides first class functionality and safety, without compromising the overall interior design scheme.

Also available as non-fire rated versions, the riser doors features a quick release pivot hinge and pre-fitted locks to further reduce installation times, without compromising on quality.

The VEGA 1500 Series is supported by a wide range of BIM Level 2 and CAD files to aid the specification process and streamline the initial design stages, with every riser door manufactured at Profab Access’ UK headquarters to provide the quickest possible lead times.

For further information on Profab Access and its range of riser doors, access panels, and steel doors, call +44(0)1827 719051 or visit www.profabaccess.com.

 

Setting the standard for fire certification and compliance

Building Products Index Ltd Access Panels Leave a Comment

View the profab Access entry on BPindex

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DSC04391-TB (1) copyOne of the UK’s leading providers in the design and manufacture of access solutions and riser doors for ceilings, walls and partitions, Profab Access, is supporting architects, specifiers and contractors in achieving the highest standards of efficiency with its PRIMA 1000 Fire Rated Series Access Panels.

Providing secure and unobtrusive access to ceiling and wall services for both residential and commercial projects, the fire rated panels are not only aesthetically pleasing and easy to install, but ensure compliance with latest building regulations.

2E7A0470 1000 series FR (1)As part of Profab Access’ commitment to construction excellence, the access panels are independently bi-directionally tested and fire-rated up to 120 minutes to BS EN 1634-1:2000 for single and double door configurations up to 600mm x 1200mm. Sizes up to 750mm x 1500mm are also available and are fire-rated for up to 90 minutes.

The PRIMA 1000 FR Series Access Panels are available in standard and bespoke specifications, providing first class performance and functionality, the panels are also smoked sealed with an intumescent and smoke seal gasket.

The lightweight metal doors can be easily installed into jointless plaster, plasterboard and partitions to provide concealed access to electrical and mechanical services and are etch primed to support onsite decoration.

2E7A0473-1000-series-FR-TB-Edit (1)Marcus Parnham, Commercial Director at Profab Access, said: “As one of the industry’s leading manufacturers and the first to bi-directionally test its access panels and riser doors, we are committed to ensuring we provide construction professionals with the highest standards of compliance and performance. Our PRIMA 1000 FR Series Access Panels have been expertly designed to provide unrivaled certification, without compromising on visual appeal or functionality to meet the most demanding site requirements.”

As a member of the official Made in Britain accreditation, Profab Access can deliver stock sizes in the shortest lead times from its UK headquarters. Its team of engineering experts can also design bespoke specifications to meet specific project requirements.

For further information on Profab Access and its range of riser doors, access panels, and steel doors, call +44(0)1827 718222 or visit www.profabaccess.com.

Profab Access adds a five star finish to Cardiff’s newest luxury hotel

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Leading riser door and access panel solution supplier, Profab Access, has proven its first-class credentials once again as part of the recent completion of a major specification at Cardiff’s new 5-star Parkgate hotel.

Copy of Profab Risers Doors-28-MV4_5279 (2)Located next to the Welsh Capital’s famous Principality Stadium, the Parkgate hotel has been designed to provide a luxurious experience for rugby fans ahead of the international season, in addition to city dwellers visiting the country all year round. Widely coined as Cardiff’s most lavish new location, the hotel, which will open Autumn 2021, includes 170 guest bedrooms and suites, a signature restaurant and bar, a traditional tea lounge and a rooftop spa overlooking the city skyline.

As part of the prestigious build, a unique collaboration between the Welsh Rugby Union, property developer, Rightacres, and The Celtic Collection, the hotel required an extensive riser door specification, with safety, high performance and aesthetic appeal key considerations.

In total, 310 Profab Access VEGA 1500 Fire Rated Riser Doors were specified for installation by Hazelwood Carpentry throughout every part of the building, including communal areas and the hotel’s vast range of luxury guest rooms and suites.

Copy of Profab Risers Doors-2-MV8_6997 (3)The VEGA 1500 Series Riser Doors offer the highest standards of fire safety, extensively tested by Efectis in France and Ireland to provide a bi-directionally fire tested product that is available in both single and double door configurations.

This means the riser door sets are fire tested from both sides to 60 minutes, providing the specifiers, contractors and hotel guests residing within the building with confidence the critical fire integrity products offer the highest standard and most up to date evidence for fire safety performance.

The range also features a slimline, neat construction, whilst its proven technology ensures permanent, safe access to mechanical and electrical services housed within the riser core. This provides first class functionality and safety, without compromising the overall interior concept.

The steel riser doors also streamlined the installation process, as the quick release pivot hinge and light weight enabled easy handling, allowing Hazelwood Carpentry to complete the job quickly and optimise overall project efficiencies.

Jamie Homer, Senior Site Supervisor at Hazelwood Carpentry, said: “As a remarkably impressive build designed to bring a new age of modern luxury to Cardiff’s historic setting, it was important we used the most innovative, highest quality products.

“From the start it was clear that there was no contender to Profab Access and its unrivalled capabilities when it comes to high performance, quality fire rated riser doors.

Copy of Profab Risers Doors-20-MV8_7115 (3)“The Profab Access team recommended the VEGA 1500 Series, which proved a fantastic choice, as it was incredibly easy to install and offers a superb finish, whilst ensuring the highest standard of fire integrity. Plus, being manufactured in the UK ensured quick lead times, which was essential in keeping the project on track for its opening this autumn.

“As usual, the team, who we have worked with many times before, were incredibly helpful and quick to respond to any queries. Needless to say, we look forward to working with Profab Access again on future projects to come.”

In the event of a fire, the VEGA 1500 Series Riser Door sets will maintain the frame and integrity for up to 60 minutes, preventing the spread of fire throughout the property for this period of time.

The riser doors are 31dB acoustic rated, smoke sealed and airtight to Part L, whilst also featuring intumescent smoke seals that enable occupants to safely exit the building. By specifying  bi-directionally fire tested VEGA 1500 Series Riser Doors, the development is actively future proofed as the comprehensive testing certification provides a complete and transparent audit trail of due diligence that evidences the products are not only fit for purpose but meet the duty of care required to ensure legal compliance.

Marcus Parnham, Commercial Director at Profab Access, said: “At a time when the hospitality sector has been subject to so much disruption, the Parkgate hotel will play a key role in attracting rugby fans during the peak international season and revitalising the city’s appeal to visitors looking for the ultimate luxury stay.

“The pedigree of our VEGA 1500 Series fit the brief perfectly. Combining functionality and visual appeal, the specification has enabled great performance without comprising aesthetics. More importantly, the specification of our bi-directionally fire tested line ensures the building features the highest levels of riser shaft fire protection currently available on the Irish and UK markets.”

Profab Access’ diverse portfolio of riser doors and access panels are supported by a wide range of BIM Level 2 and CAD files to aid the specification process and streamline the initial design stages.

Manufactured at Profab Access’ Atherstone headquarters in accordance with ISO 9001, the 1500 Series Riser Doors can be specified and installed in a range of configurations to meet each project’s specific measurements and requirements.

For further information on Profab Access and its range of access panels, riser doors and steel doors, call +44(0)1827 719051 or visit https://www.profabaccess.com.

Don’t compromise on aesthetics for performance

Building Products Index Ltd riser doors Leave a Comment

View the Profab Access entry on BPindex

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The release of the Draft Building Safety Bill, alongside the formation of the new National Construction Products Regulator, is paving the way for a new standard of compliance that ensures safety consistently remains the top priority throughout each stage of the design, construction and maintenance processes. 

 However, achieving these aims should not have to come at the expense of aesthetics. Here Mick Hill, Lead Technical Manager at Profab Access, discusses how architects and specifiers can secure specifications that achieve the highest standards of safety and adherence with latest legal requirements, without having to compromise on style.

Kings Cross R6_1As riser doors offer convenient and safe access to essential services for ongoing maintenance, their primary motivation for specification is one of practicality and functionality, rather than visual appeal.

However, latest industry advancements are paving the way for a new generation of riser doors that deliver the highest standards in fire certification and performance, yet have simultaneously been designed and manufactured to help enhance the project’s interior aesthetic.

Kings Cross R6_2Achieving this optimum balance between style and substance can be facilitated through the specification of steel riser doors that seamlessly integrate into masonry walls, shaft walls and drywall partitions to deliver an unobtrusive finish, without impeding the ease of access for engineers.

Taking this theme one step further, by specifying riser doors that offer the ability to create bespoke facades, architects and designers can actually utilise the riser doors to complement and enhance the surrounding interior, rather than detracting from the chosen visual appeal.

8000 Series St James Square-1For example, steel riser doors that can be clad in a range of additional materials, including stone, ceramic, marble and tiles can support the creation of a unified aesthetic that completely disguises the riser door, without affecting its fire combustibility or overall performance, as permeant means of access to mechanical and electrical services is unaffected.

This type of riser door is a popular choice for busy commercial applications, including reception areas and public washrooms, due to the facade being the exact same material as the surrounding walls.

While cladding a riser door in different materials may present initial concerns with regard to the combustibility and fire performance of the overall installation, professionals can ensure compliance and provide the highest levels of protection and suitability for the entire lifecycle of the building by specifying riser doors that have been third party tested.

In line with the recommendations outlined within the Draft Building Safety Bill and in accordance with the guidelines shared by the National Construction Products Regulator, by choosing riser doors that have undergone extensive evaluation, are independently certified and supported by comprehensive test certification, architects can demonstrate a clear trail of due diligence in accordance with relevant regulations.

20 Fenchurch Street-3 (4)Throughout the specification process, architects should also ensure the riser doors they are choosing are smoke sealed and Airtight in accordance with Part L. In the event of a fire, the riser doors will maintain their integrity for up to two hours, limiting the spread of fire for this period of time.

By selecting riser doors that are also equipped with an intumescent smoke seal, it ensures occupants will be able to safely exit in the event of a fire, whilst also minimising potential damage to the rest of the building.

When specifying these components, architects should work closely with manufacturers that provide extensive information, including BIM and CAD files, alongside technical evidence to document the suitability of the product for its chosen application. This will ensure the installation is fit for purpose for the entire lifecycle of the building.

By taking an alternative approach to the specification of riser doors, professionals can achieve an installation that enhances, rather than detracts, from the chosen interior design scheme, without having to compromise on the overall performance and compliance of the product.

For further information on Profab Access and its range of access panels, riser doors and steel doors, call +44(0)1827 719051 or visit www.profabaccess.com.

Profab Access rises to the top at Aungier Street Student Accommodation

Building Products Index Ltd riser doors Leave a Comment

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Situated in the heart of Dublin just a short walk or cycle from Trinity College, Royal College of Surgeons Ireland and University College Dublin, Scape Aungier Street is a new state-of-the-art student accommodation complex.

Offering a diverse range of high quality accommodation options, from en suite rooms in shared apartments, through to large and premium studios, the latest Scape development features communal study spaces, large open plan kitchens and gym areas to offer students all of the amenities they require.

As part of the construction process, which was managed by John Paul Construction, 226 Profab Access 4000 Series Riser Doors were specified for installation by AE Doors throughout every part of the building, including the communal areas and individual bedrooms.

The 4000 Series Riser Doors offer the highest standards of fire safety, supplied with comprehensive CERTIFIRE bi-directional certification from third party accredited testing, Warrington Fire.

This means the riser doors are fire tested from both sides to two hours, providing the specifiers, contractors and ultimately the students residing within the building with confidence the critical fire integrity products offer the highest standard and most up to date evidence for fire safety performance.

The 4000 Series is the only riser door in the UK to be independently bi-directionally fire tested and certified by an accredited third party to ensure legal compliance.

The steel riser doors feature a slimline construction that doesn’t compromise on quality or functionality, offering aesthetics without compromise. Providing clean and concealed access to the riser shafts, the unobtrusive doors were specified with a central key cylinder lock and hinges on one side.

This significantly streamlined the installation process for the team at AE Doors and reduced the risk of damage to the doors upon installation, particularly in the student bedrooms and bathrooms where access was restricted.

Pat Woods, Technical Sales at AE Doors, said: “Given the nature of this development we knew the quality and durability of the riser doors was paramount to ensure their longevity and continued efficiency.

“We have supplied and installed Profab Access’ riser doors for over two years and continue to be extremely impressed with the quality of construction, so we knew the 4000 Series would be the ideal choice for this project.

“The products are extremely easy to install and as they are manufactured in the UK, they are available with impressive lead times. This meant we could ensure the development of the project was kept on track, ready for its opening this autumn.”

In the event of a fire, the doors will maintain their frame and integrity for up to two hours, preventing the spread of fire throughout the property for this period of time.

The riser doors are 35dB acoustic rated, smoke sealed and airtight to Part L, whilst also featuring intumescent smoke seals that enable occupants to safely exit the building. By specifying the CERTIFIRE bi-directionally fire tested 4000 Series Riser Doors, the development is actively future proofed as the comprehensive testing certification provides a complete and transparent audit trail of due diligence that evidences the products are not only fit for purpose, but meet the duty of care required to ensure legal compliance.

Mick Hill, Lead Technical Manager at Profab Access, said: “Scape provides students across Ireland, the UK and Australia with contemporary accommodation that offers the highest standards in quality, safety and functionality.

“The specification of our 4000 Series bi-directionally fire tested riser doors throughout all areas of the new Aungier Street development is a further reflection of this commitment, ensuring the building features the highest levels of riser shaft fire protection currently available on the Irish and UK markets.”

The 4000 Series Riser Doors were supplied with a high quality powder-coated matt surface, which were finished on-site in a range of bold colours to reflect the contemporary interior design scheme.

Profab Access’ diverse portfolio of riser doors and access panels are supported by a wide range of BIM Level 2 and CAD files to aid the specification process and streamline the initial design stages.

Manufactured at Profab Access’ Atherstone headquarters in accordance with ISO 9001, the 4000 Series Riser Doors can be specified and installed in a range of configurations to meet each project’s specific measurements and requirements.

For further information on Profab Access and its range of access panels, riser doors and steel doors, call +44(0)1827 719051 or visit https://www.profabaccess.com.

Take a proactive approach to fire safety with Profab Access

Building Products Index Ltd riser doors Leave a Comment

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At the forefront of industry developments, Profab Access’ 4000 Series riser doors are CERTIFIRE fire tested from both sides to two hours, providing architects with the highest standards in fire safety.

100 CheapsideSuperseding latest legal requirements, it is the only riser door in the UK to be independently bi-directionally fire tested by an accredited third party.

Following the Hackitt Review and amendments to Building Regulations Approved Document B (Fire Safety) after the Grenfell Fire tragedy, Profab Access felt it had a responsibility as one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of vertical access panels, riser doors and steel doors to improve the fire safety of its products, going above and beyond both industry standards and regulations.

This led to the launch of its bi-directional fire tested 4000 Series riser doors, single and double doors on both sides, which have a two-hour CERTIFIRE independent third party certification from Warrington Fire.

Fire testing from both sidesProfab Access has also extended its commitment to bi-directional fire testing across its product portfolio. Its 1000 Series access panels are now certified on both sides up to one hour, while its 1500 Series, single and double doors, are also certified on both sides for up to two hours. This provides architects with a full suite of access products that offer unrivalled levels of fire safety.

The 4000 Series riser doors are suitable for installation in a breadth of commercial and residential applications, providing architects with a higher performing fire alternative to traditional timber riser doors. By being bi-directionally fire tested, the 4000 Series riser doors offer professionals the greatest peace of mind available on the UK market with regard to fire safety.

Manufactured to IS09001:2015 and ISO4001:2015, the 4000 Series offers architects and specifiers first class product quality and safety, without comprising on aesthetics. Providing a superior offering when compared to competitor products, the riser doors are 35dB acoustic rated, smoke sealed and air tight to Part L.

The range provides clean and concealed maintenance-free access that is easy to install and is available in a range of single, double and multi-leaf configurations. Supporting sustainable construction, its concealed riser doors are also fully recyclable at the end of life.

Ludgate London_1Leading the field in accreditation, the portfolio of aesthetically discreet and streamlined doors is available in a wide range of lock and frame options, with a bespoke design service to provide access requirements that meet each project’s unique requests. Security is also a leading factor in the riser doors’ design, with multi-point locking provided as standard to prevent unauthorised access.

In the event of a fire, the riser doors will maintain their frame and integrity for up to two hours, limiting the spread of fire and transmission of radiant heat for this period of time. The doors are also equipped with an intumescent smoke seal. This enables occupants to safely exit the building, whilst also minimising potential damage to the rest of the building.

The 4000 Series riser doors are supplied with impressive lead times throughout the UK and are supported by a wide range of BIM Level 2 and CAD files, to aid the specification process and streamline the initial design stages.

For further information on Profab Access and its range of access panels, riser doors and steel doors, call +44(0)1827 719051or visit https://www.profabaccess.com.

 

Three brands, one objective – safe access all areas

Building Products Index Ltd access covers, Access Panels Leave a Comment

View the Bilco UK, Profab Access and Howe Green entries on BPindex

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Visit the Access 360 website

Access 360 Header Image - 3 brandsThree of the UK’s leading access specialists have come together to form the Access 360 portfolio, providing a total manufacturing solution for roof, ceiling, wall and floor access products for the construction industry.

Access 360 comprises Bilco UK, Profab Access and Howe Green.  These well-established brands all have a strong reputation for delivering innovative solutions to address the challenges of safe access within a building or external environment.

The brand identities have been updated, reflecting the holistic offer that Access 360 presents to the market, to represent the synergy between the brands and the complementary nature of the products.

Bilco UK is a horizontal access specialist supplying the commercial market with standard and bespoke roof access hatches, ladders, smoke vents and floor doors. Founded in the USA in 1926 the company has been operating in the UK since 1989.

Following the acquisition of Bilco by the Tyman Group in 2016 Bilco UK became part of home security specialist ERA in April 2017.

Howe Green was acquired by Bilco UK in 2017. The company manufactures fabricated floor access covers, linear drainage, tree pit covers and bespoke metalwork from a manufacturing facility in Hertfordshire. Incorporated in 1983 Howe Green access covers are specified across a diversity of industry sectors.

In August 2018 Profab Access, a leading manufacturer of vertical access panels, riser doors and steel doors was acquired. Established in 2001 Profab employs a team of 71 and operates from a 46,000 sq. ft. manufacturing and distribution facility in Warwickshire.

The strategic acquisitions of Howe Green and Profab Access were designed to strengthen Bilco UK’s “Safe Access All Areas” proposition. The three companies serve the same market, working with architects, specifiers and building service professionals to provide trusted, high quality, safe access solutions.

James Fisher, Managing Director of Access 360, explains the rationale behind the creation of Access 360 and the new brand identities. “Since the acquisition of Howe Green and Profab Access we have been promoting our ability to provide an unparalleled range of access solutions. From an operational perspective it soon became obvious that we needed a name and an identity that could encompass all three companies, whilst retaining the established and trusted brand names.

“We have members of the team whose responsibilities cover the three brands, including myself, our Sales Director, Technical Director, Marketing Manager, SHEQ Manager, New Product Development Engineer and our sales force.

“The name Access 360 represents what we have to offer the construction sector – products that cover the complete spectrum of access solutions.  We have a new brand mark for each company to illustrate how the brands, and respective products, complement each other.  We are delighted to present Access 360 to the world and to announce the bringing together of three brands with one specific objective – safe access all areas.”

To find out more about the range of products available from Access 360 please visit www.access-360.co.uk.

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