Aluminium windows and doors from AluK has been specified as part of a major three-phase refurbishment programme at Compton School in Finchley. The project includes both new build and the upgrading of the main school building's original steel windows.
A brand new science block, plus replacement windows in the main building to match the new ones, comprised the first stage of the project at the north London School. Stage two involved a new build construction to link the new science block and the main school, and includes an open area with informal seating where the children can congregate. With phases one and two of the project complete, the third stage is now in progress and consists of a two-storey extension to the school's old science block.
AluK's heavy duty direct fix Classic 70mm system was specified and the total of around 100 windows feature an externally glazed Eurovent, with some incorporating winding gear. All are in a brilliant white finish and AluK's standard and special colours are produced to comply with BS 6496: 1984, making them highly resistant to the pollution and grime that can discolour many other types of frames. AluK heavy duty direct fix outer frame doors were also installed in the new buildings.
Floor to ceiling aluminium windows in the link building have been glazed with 50/25 Solar Control glass to help regulate the temperature in the room. Mirrored finish or diffused sandblasted glass was used elsewhere where privacy was required.
With strength, thermal performance and longevity, all prerequisites, aluminium was an obvious choice. The AluK system satisfies all these criteria to provide a highly durable, low maintenance solution that also meets all the performance requirements of Document 'L' The system's natural strength and elegant styling, as well as easy maintenance, makes it an ideal choice for public sector projects such as schools and colleges. All aluminium sections are extruded to BS EN 755, and windows are manufactured in accordance with BS 4873: 2004. All window sections feature a thermal barrier enhancing thermal efficiency in compliance with Building Regulations on U-values.
Compton is a community school maintained by the local education authority and is a mixed comprehensive for 11 - 16 year olds, AluK are involved in three other school contracts for the same contractor and are working on all the projects concurrently.