The Trussed Rafter Association (TRA) has published a new roofing guidance for housebuilders
How to Build Compliant Spandrel Panels, which is endorsed by the NHBC, has been updated to include information about single-skin cladding for spandrel panels.
The roofing guide now has a page featuring fermacell Gypsum Fibreboard as an example of how single-skin cladding can replace two sheets of plasterboard either side of a spandrel panel, without compromising fire and acoustic requirements.
Jonathan Fellingham, TRA chairman, said: “The first version of the guide we published last year proved to be very useful to housebuilders.
“We decided to update the guide to add more useful information for housebuilders on single-skin cladding options for spandrels. We take our collaboration with the installers of our products seriously and are committed to offering guidance to increase quality and accuracy wherever possible.”
Throughout the roofing guide there are technical drawings and 3D renders showing safe and compliant installation methods for spandrel panels. Where necessary these have also been updated to show closer detail of bracing, and to demonstrate different ways to restrain spandrel panels.
Further guidance will be published throughout 2018 providing the latest advice on all aspects of the design, manufacture and safe installation of roof components.
You can download the updated roofing guidance via: https://www.tra.org.uk/technical-advice-downloads/spandrel-gable-panels/
It’s great to hear about alternative roofing techniques which maintain a high quality of fire safety. Amidst the national concern over house fires, it’s really important to remember that we don’t have to stick to the tried and tested formulas. Innovation and inspiration can still occur in a worried market, just as long as it adheres strongly to safety laws, and is publicised as doing so. Homeowners need to feel that innovation and change are positive and should be welcomed, rather than dangerous forays away from what is well known to be safe.