Facade Design & Specification

Project Consultancy

In project consultancy we monitor the design, manufacture and construction of facades on projects. We welcome the opportunity to work with property owners, developers and architects on the design of new buildings and the conversion of and refurbishment of existing buildings. We assist clients in making decisions in areas such as:

- The building facade concept
- Costed option studies
- Structural options for facade support
- Choice of facade system
- Shading options versus glass options
- Construction and buildability
- Prototype weathertightness testing
- Cladding and curtain wall material choices
- Durability and design life
- Long term maintenance requirements

For our design input to be effective, we need to be involved as part of the project team from the earliest design stage. If we are involved at the concept stage we can help steer the project regarding cost, buildability and choice of systems. We can then be even more effective in the detailed design stage of the project with the specification of the various facade elements and detailing for tender issued drawings.

Prototype testing

We normally recommend prototype testing for all but the smallest of projects and regularly attend tests on behalf of clients to verify the results. In this way we can assist, when problems arise, by rectifying faults and problems at the prototype stage before manufacture.

Manufacturing

At the manufacturing stage, we undertake factory visits to look at whether the required quality is being achieved. Compliance with drawings, specification and project requirements will not happen without monitoring of the manufacturers output and this is what we provide. Discovering quality issues on site can lead to lengthy project delays but, by contrast checking the manufacturers work at this stage takes relatively little time and is always worthwhile.

Installation

With the current skills shortages that we have on sites in the UK and a lack of trained and experienced installers, it is vitally important (right from the start) to monitor the installation of the facades and check that proper levels of quality are being achieved. Quality will not happen by itself - it needs a monitoring presence. For this we recommend regular visits to site by one of our facade engineers. Patrick says “problems which are spotted early on can be rectified easily and at the end of the project we can all enjoy the warm glow of success!”

If you would like to contact us regarding your project or specific requirement, please call or email us:
Email contact@patrickryanassociates.com
Telephone 0208 254 9920