The Trussed Rafter Association has issued new roofing guidance aimed at preventing poor spandrel panel construction by housebuilders
New roofing guidance relating to the use of spandrel panels has gone live this week. The document, which was created by the Trussed Rafter Association (TRA), will provide evidence-based technical best practice for using spandrel panels. This will include information on the design and structural requirements associated with using spandrel, as well as the considerations required to ensure safety and efficiency.
Spandrel panels are increasingly being used on new builds, with trussed roof manufacturers reporting growing interest in the offsite components. It is a quick, easy method of construction that can also reduce the amount of time spent working at height. A recent survey from the NHBC revealed how popular spandrel is becoming, showing that 17 per cent of 8,000 new builds questioned were already using the spandrel panels.
It is hoped the new guide will offer advice to ensure the risks of using spandrel are mitigated while reducing waste and cost.
Further updates expected
The guide was developed by the TRA alongside the NHBC and the Structural Timber Association (STA). It is expected more updates will be added to the document following the outcome of fire testing, which is currently being undertaken by the STA.
Additional amends will be made later this year by the TRA and NHBC in relation to gable detailing.
Jonathan Fellingham, chairman of the TRA, said: “As the use of pre-manufactured components and offsite construction grows in popularity, housebuilders are increasingly turning to spandrel panels.
“They provide an ideal solution to the skills shortages in housebuilding and roofing, and they help to improve safety on site, as they require less time working at height. Spandrel panels can be installed quickly, and faster installation times also mean lower costs. They also leave little or no site waste.
“But TRA members and NHBC inspectors have shared concerns about the quality of construction in some areas, so it’s vital that housebuilders understand best practice in design and installation to achieve the best results.
“We have collaborated with the STA and NHBC to ensure the challenges housebuilders face are covered so the standard of installation is as high as possible.”
Paul Cribbens, NHBC standards manager, added: “As the housebuilding industry moves evermore towards innovative methods of construction, it is encouraging to see the supply chain embracing the challenges and ensuring that products perform as expected.
“This document represent a first significant step towards standardising this innovative method of construction.”
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