Lessons Learnt

What we know going forward

Our experience of carrying out cladding replacement projects has led to us collate the below list of lessons learnt when carrying out these type of works.

Ensure careful removal of existing cladding to leave existing subframe intact and reusable

Choose replacement cladding materials to match the appearance of that removed to avoid having to apply for planning permission, reducing delivery programme duration

Apply for temporary power for mast climbers, and any road closures as soon as possible to prevent delay

Apply a floor by floor quality checking regime and handover process, especially checking any fire stopping / barriers. This allows a progressive dismantle of the mast climbers ensuring we can clear site quickly following project completion

Avoid specifying materials that require hot works as part of installation process

There has to be an unwavering focus on ensuring that residents are kept safe through careful and effective planning of the works

Technical capability of the project team is crucial to success, ensuring a complete understanding of relevant Standards and Regulatory Requirements

A bespoke and detailed Inspection and Test regime is key to meeting the required quality levels; this needs to be driven by the project team thorough robust application of technical standards and design quality

Robust governance is essential to ensure that full risk profile is understood by the full project team

Care required in the specification of most appropriate materials working closely with the supply chain to ensure compliance but also consider other factors such as lifespan and energy consumption

From our experience and research in the recladding sector, we have developed a series of Design Technical Standards