Modern Technology for Traditional Houses : Matthew Knight, Technical Engineer at IG Lintels, has described how the IG team used modern manufacturing methods to deliver arch brick feature lintels to compliment the traditional style of beautiful homes in Nottingham.
What challenges did this project present?
The main challenge on this job was that the houses required a walk through arch to the main entrance door. To achieve the architect’s vision for the project, we needed to ensure the steel soffit wasn’t visible on the bottom of arch as people would physically walk through it.
As this was a live site, we also needed to develop a solution that reduced the need for skilled labour on site. Another challenge we faced was the tight time restraints on this project, the client required a short lead time so it was also important to take this into consideration during the design process.
What solutions were developed to overcome these challenges and why did you choose these options?
The way in which we overcame the first challenge was to supply a feature brick radius arch lintel which was faced to the front, rear and underside, by doing this no steelwork was visible on the arch.
To overcome the tight time restraints, we came up with a solution to meet the clients’ needs and deliver the results on a short time scale.
Our production team manufactured all the steel backing lintels and then we received a consignment of the brick type used on site, we only needed to cut and bond the bricks to the already made lintels, shortening the lead time and meeting the customers’ requirements.
What is your favourite architectural feature on this project?
The feature brick entrance arches which we supplied throughout the site on the two house types were definitely my favourite architectural features on this project. We used modern techniques to save time on site while still delivering a solution which complimented the traditional style of houses.
Why did you enjoy working on this project?
I enjoyed working on this project as it gave me the opportunity to work closely with the architect throughout the project. We designed and supplied a range of products that met the logistical requirements of the client without compromising the aesthetics of the design. We delivered a solution that perfectly complimented the traditional style of these homes.
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