Jun 28 2010
Bristol based contractor Barry Knapp was so impressed by the Thin Joint system he used in a recent development that he has decided to go the full course and become a registered Rå Build contractor with H+H.
Speed of build was the major attraction – an attraction that can be valued in terms of hard cash:
“Full bond strength for the vertical coursing is achieved within only a couple of hours. Being able to build so quickly up to the roof requires just one visit for full height scaffolding instead of for every level. I’ve estimated this to reduce our scaffold costs by a quarter.”
For this development of three terraced houses, the contractor was following a detailed specification requiring a U Value of 0.29W/m2k with a special emphasis on air-tightness.
The speed of construction was also helped by the technical performance: “Thin Joint is so easy to use, because every course after the first is checked can be relied upon to self-level. Believe me, the tolerances are so fine that we don’t need dummy frames for the windows and doors.”
H+H employs a technical team to help with project specifications, ensuring that the specification of houses using Thin Joint is exceptionally straightforward.
This simplicity is taken to its logical conclusion when a Rå Build method is the chosen solution. Rå Build from H+H provides a full service including specification, provision of all structural materials and the reassurance of an accredited Ra Build specialist contractor.
Having experienced the concept first hand, Barry Knapp is now keen to capitalise on what he sees as a commercial advantage by becoming a Rå Build contractor. “All the benefits can be translated into direct cost savings, which immediately help to make the business more competitive in tenders and over the long-term for overall efficiency and business margins.”