A groundbreaking project has recently concluded in Hertfordshire, where an old Fluorocarbon site in Caxton Hill has been transformed into modern offices and a warehouse.  

This remarkable refurbishment, installed by Roof-Link Industrial and Commercial, and overseen by Vista Contracts South East Ltd, utilised the Gemello® Revive over-cladding system from SIG Building Solutions, in collaboration with Filon Products and Superglass® (Part of Etex Group). 

Unique Approach with Gemello® Revive 

The architects behind the project opted for an innovative over-clad solution rather than demolishing the existing buildings. By specifying Gemello® Revive, they were able to preserve the structures while giving them a fresh and modern look. Martin Lloyd, Director of Roof-Link Industrial and Commercial, the approved subcontractor for the installation, stated, “Gemello® Revive’s competitive pricing and immediate availability were key factors in our selection. It allowed us to proceed without long lead times, keeping the project on schedule and within budget.” 

Benefits of Gemello® Revive 

Gemello® Revive from SIG Building Solutions is a comprehensive, warrantied over-cladding system designed to enhance both the aesthetic and thermal performance of buildings. The system is suitable for a wide range of market sectors, including industrial, retail, office, health, education, and leisure. It offers extensive design flexibility with a variety of external cladding profiles and finishes, allowing for a tailored look for each project. 

Adam Carey, National Sales Manager at Filon Products, who supplied 100 linear meters of new single-skin GRP rooflights for the project, with a 3.6kg/m2 sheet weight to match the profile within the new over-roof, remarked, “From our side it was a brilliant project to be involved with, as this was one of the first Gemello® projects we’ve worked on, and SIG being a key supply partner was brilliant for us. The collaboration was seamless, and the product’s quality speaks for itself. The system will achieve Class B non-fragility with an expected lifespan of 25 years, which is a testament to its durability and reliability.” 

Collaborative Success 

The refurbishment was a collective effort, with several key partners contributing to its success. Superglass® provided the insulation, enhancing the building’s thermal efficiency and reducing operating costs through better insulation. The insulation cavity, created by a galvanized top-hat and engineered bar and bracket spacer system, was filled with non-combustible glass fibre insulation, which can achieve thermal U-values as low as 0.14W/m²K. 

Phil Tye, National Sales Manager for the Gemello® product range within SIG Building Solutions, highlighted the importance of such collaborations: “We offer robust technical support both in-house and through our supply partners. Design collaboration is vital to meet project objectives, and reliability of delivery is ensured as we manufacture in the UK. This means phased deliveries can be co-ordinated closely with installers, ensuring everything stays on track.” 

Embracing British Products 

Using British-made products like Gemello® Revive offers numerous benefits, from shorter lead times and reliable delivery to superior quality, comprehensive warranties and cost savings. This project underscored the advantages of sourcing materials locally, ensuring stock availability and supporting the UK manufacturing industry. 

Martin Lloyd from Roof-Link emphasised the ease of installation, stating, “Working with the Gemello® Revive system was a pleasure. Its design made the installation process straightforward, and the results speak for themselves. The site now has a clean, modern look with significantly improved thermal performance.” 

Conclusion 

The recently completed transformation marks a significant achievement in sustainable building practices. By opting for refurbishment over demolition, the project not only preserved the historical value of the original structures, but also reduced waste and embodied carbon emissions associated with new construction. 

The success of the project showcases the potential of innovative building solutions like Gemello® Revive, and demonstrates how sustainable practices can be integrated into construction, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits while supporting the local economy. 

As the construction industry continues to evolve, projects like this set a precedent for how existing buildings can be revitalised, contributing to a more sustainable future. The success of this refurbishment is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and the use of high-quality British products. 

Gemello® is a registered trademark of Building Solutions (National) Limited 

Superglass® is a registered trademark of Superglass Insulation Limited