THE PROBLEM
It’s estimated that there are over 50,000 high rise apartments in London alone, this equates to over 50% of the capital’s residential property. Outdoor space is a vitally important aspect of any modern residential development. Over recent years we have seen a significant increase in bolt on and cantilever balconies. Larger areas of socialising space such as terraces and roof gardens have all added to the volumes of decking being used in current construction.
BRE Global have reported 24 balcony fires in recent years. The primary cause of this is the use of combustible materials in their construction. This has left building control no choice but to change current legislation to ensure only non- combustible materials can be used in the future.
For over 20 years, timber decking has been the preferred option for balconies. Since 2002, the introduction of WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) decking boards has been a higher performance option. With still a low fire rating of between D1 and B1, this offered some no rot benefits. Both of these are now obsolete under the new regulations. With now a minimum Class A Fire rating being the requirement, this is forcing specifications into un-chartered territory.
With building works still needing to be completed, only Aluminium decking has been available. This meets the Class A fire rating but has some drawbacks.