A high-profile project, involving the unique new Schöck Sconnex® type W thermally insulating wall connection, is Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School, at Elstree in Hertfordshire.

It is one of the leading independent boys' schools in the UK and sets exemplary standards, not just in educational terms, but in its facilities as well.

As demonstrated by the new extension to the Preparatory School, which is of reinforced concrete. Traditionally wall connections to the floor, or floor slab, have been a major source of linear thermal bridges.

Cube_design architects were commissioned to produce a concept design for three additional classrooms, along with the relocation of changing facilities. Jane Lock-Smith, the founder of cube_design and RIBA Client Design Advisor within the BSF programme, takes up the story:

“The design is respectful to the style of the existing building, but offers a contemporary twist through the use of full height glazing and charred timber cladding. The use of a colonnade minimises the buildings footprint. In our detailing we took into account that around 40% of all thermal bridges in a building are caused by walls and supports.

The Schöck solution offers an application-friendly, high-quality solution that contributes to a permanently sustainable building concept."

The outstanding insulation performance is combined with an excellent load bearing capacity, which transmits very high pressure, tensile and shear forces, both in the longitudinal and transverse direction. Made possible by the use of a pressure buffer consisting of ultra-high performance fibre reinforced concrete which achieves compressive strength levels in excess of 175 N/mm2. A further important benefit is the significant cost reduction achieved when compared to installing insulation beneath the floor slab.

For further information on the new Sconnex type W product;
contact Schöck on 01865 290 890; or download the brochure at www.schoeck.com