SCHÖCK
NEW SCHÖCK THERMALLY INSULATING WALL CONNECTION IN A CLASS OF ITS OWN
Minimising linear thermal bridges at the wall connection to the floor , or floor slab , has been a perennial problem with reinforced concrete construction . However , a dedicated new solution – the Sconnex type W – has now been introduced by Schöck . A high-profile project involving the new Schöck thermally insulating wall connection is Haberdashers ’ Aske ’ s Boys ’ School , at Elstree in Hertfordshire . Recognised as being one of the leading independent boys ’ schools in the country , it sets exemplary standards , not just in educational terms , but in its facilities as well . As demonstrated by the new extension to the Preparatory School .
A TWO-STOREY CONTEMPORARY EXTENSION
This is a standalone building within the campus and Hampshire based cube _ design architects were commissioned to produce a concept design for three additional classrooms , along with the relocation of changing facilities . Jane Lock-Smith , the founder of cube _ design and RIBA Client Design Advisor within the BSF programme , takes up the story : “ The design is respectful to the style of the existing building , but offers a contemporary twist through the use of full height glazing and charred timber cladding . The use of a colonnade minimises the buildings footprint . In our detailing we took into account that around 40 % of all thermal bridges in a building are caused by walls and supports . The Schöck solution offers an application-friendly , high-quality solution that contributes to a permanently sustainable building concept ”.
Exterior project images courtesy of cube _ design
A SERIOUS SOURCE OF LINEAR THERMAL BRIDGES
The construction of the Preparatory School extension is of reinforced concrete ; and traditionally wall connections to the floor , or floor slab , have been a major source of linear thermal bridges . The result being not just serious energy loss , but also the high risk of condensation . This can easily lead to mould growth , resulting in possible structural damage and worse , posing a health risk to the occupants . As the market leaders in the development of Isokorb structural thermal breaks for balconies and other cantilever constructions , Schöck has now used this expertise to produce a thermally insulating wall connection that combines outstanding insulation performance with dependable loadbearing capacity .
SCONNEX IS A UNIQUE SOLUTION
The Sconnex type W product
This new thermally insulating connection for reinforced concrete walls is unique in a number of ways . It minimises the thermal bridge between the exterior wall insulation and the insulation above the floor slab , increasing the energy efficiency of the entire building .
A graphic of the Sconnex type W in position
Thermal losses are greatly reduced and the surface temperature in the room increases to considerably more than the critical dew point temperature . Heating costs are lower and the PSI of the connected reinforced concrete wall is reduced by up to 90 percent . The outstanding insulation performance is combined with an excellent load bearing capacity , which transmits very high pressure , tensile and shear forces , both in the longitudinal and transverse direction . Made possible by the use of a pressure buffer consisting of ultra-high performance fibre reinforced concrete which achieves compressive strength levels in excess of 175 N / mm2 . A further important benefit is the significant cost reduction achieved when compared to installing insulation beneath the floor slab .
For further information on the new Sconnex type W product ; contact Schöck on 01865 290 890 ; or download the brochure at www . schoeck . com
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