Housebuilders are being provided with a new guide on gable wall spandrel panels to help the industry move towards modern methods of construction (MMC)
Gable wall spandrel panels are an offsite manufactured product, put together in quality-assured factory conditions before being delivered direct to site.
The panels provide an alternative to the inner leaf of an exterior masonry wall at the gable end of a building and must be designed to comply with robust structural and thermal requirements and in some circumstances fire resistance performance standards too.
The use of gable wall panels is considered to make housebuilding more efficient, often saving hours of bricklaying time, and helps improve site safety.
Increasing MMC
Published by the Trussed Rafter Association (TRA), the guide provides information and guidance for both designers and onsite contractors. The guidance specifically relates to pitched trussed rafter roofs above masonry-built homes, where there is an unoccupied roof space and insulation at ceiling level.
Nick Boulton, TRA chief executive, commented: “We have developed the Gable Wall Spandrel Panel Guide to help housebuilders and designers understand every aspect of the product and its benefits. With increasing interest in MMC, gable wall spandrel panels are an ideal component to help speed up and improve the build process.
“The guide offers information on design responsibilities, structural considerations, fire resistance, thermal performance, and the manufacture of panels. On the contractor side, we cover site handling details, installation, gable lateral restraints and most importantly advice on staying safe when working with gable wall spandrel panels.
“The TRA is committed to offering guidance to increase safety, quality and accuracy wherever possible. We hope this guide will help designers and contractors alike.”
The guide features detailed technical illustrations to show what is required on installation as well as advice on satisfying thermal performance requirements. The guide also provides a safety checklist to assist contractors and site staff responsible for installation.
The guide can be accessed here.
