The Schöck Isokorb structural thermal break is universally recognised for its capability with balcony design detailing. But less widely known for its ability to dramatically improve facade thermal performance.
After the Second World War the Elephant and Castle district of London was clumsily redeveloped. Impressive in its time, but very outmoded today, it has led to the £2.3 billion Elephant Park regeneration project. The third phase is currently live with eleven buildings over two plots providing 829 homes. There are brick-finished midrise blocks to 12-storeys throughout, with each plot also featuring a main tower. One at 24-storey, the other 25-storey. The towers use around 19,000m² of aluminium unitised facade panels and there are also hundreds of pre-fabricated cantilever steel balconies.
With steel having such high conductivity, the avoidance of thermal bridging is critical throughout, as local heat loss will result in more energy being required to maintain the building’s internal temperature. Low internal surface temperatures can also cause condensation, which may result in structural integrity problems with absorbent materials. Mould growth is also a possible serious risk.
The thermal performance at the connectivity points throughout – involving both the balconies and the commercial facades – needed careful consideration. The Schöck Isokorb structural thermal break is universally recognised for its capability with balcony design detailing. But less widely known for its ability to dramatically improve facade thermal performance. On this project, as the thermal zone sits outside the slab zone, the Schöck Isokorb T type S offers the ideal solution.
This versatile structural thermal break is the ideal connectivity solution for steel-to-steel applications. There are two variants, the T type S-N for tensile force and the T type S-V for transferring compression and shear forces. It is the only approved thermal break product that satisfies the load-bearing and thermal insulation requirements for steel design. Also, being a modular unit, it can be adapted to all profile sizes and load bearing capacity requirements – plus it can be used in both new construction and renovation projects.
In addition to steel-to-steel connectivity, the comprehensive Isokorb range also offers solutions for concrete-to-steel, concrete-to-concrete – and even a maintenance free alternative to wrapped parapets. Products meet full compliance with the relevant UK building regulations, have NHBC approval and offer LABC Registration. There is also the security of independent BBA Certification.
Contact Schöck on 01865 290 890; or visit the website at www.schoeck.com for full details of the Isokorb T type S and all other Isokorb solutions.